《Blue Phantom》


 Memories Buried by Snow part 1

    Prologue


    Memories Buried by Snow


    The mountains bathed in the warm glow of afternoon sunlight, reflecting the gold and orange hues on the surface of the snow.


    A solitary figure trudged through towards the edge of a cliff, draped in a white, hooded coat, and carrying a large white bag slung over their shoulder.


    Up ahead, beyond the cliff and cold mist, was another mountain, where a large villa stood. Its appearance was almost like a small castle that was hanging on the edge, surrounded by dense woodland.


    The figure gazed at the horizon where the sun had started to set, when a gust swept through the trees and tugged down their white hood, ruffling their raven-black hair.


    ¡°What a bother.¡± A wisp of white smoke formed from the figure¡¯s breath in a youthful male voice, stuttering from the frigid air.


    Though his eyes were hidden behind opaque ski goggles, the lower portion of his face was visibly young and had a light complexion, which was only emphasized by the low temperature. The young boy properly adjusted his white headset, then pressed into it, ¡°Command, I¡¯m at the location.¡±


    ¡°Copy that, Two-Zero-One.¡± A feminine voice on the other end responded. One with a faint Irish accent.


    The boy, Two-Zero-One, went on one knee and placed his luggage to the wintry blanket he stood on, inside it was an assortment of black components, with a long barrel at the most side. It was the parts to a firearm ¡ª a rifle ¡ª  and started putting each intricate piece of the weapon together.


    The winter trees whispered in a hushed voice as a gentle breeze swept by them. The figure glanced to the skies opposite the Sun, where dark clouds were gathering. A blizzard was brewing.


    After assembling the rifle, the boy looked towards the horizon, where the sun was setting. It glistened with a hazy powder, dyed in the orange and purple hues of the dusk.


    Two-Zero-One removed his goggles to soak in the moment, exposing his mismatched eyes to the thousands of snowflakes fluttering ahead.


    His right iris was the color of dark copper with a small black mole just beneath it, while his left iris was a sapphire blue that radiated with a dim glow.


    The moment he took his position, the snow wasted no time piling on top of his body, and the cold air started to stab his lungs like icy needles.


    He placed his goggles back on and pressed his cheek against the rifle, adjusting the scope. As it blurred into focus, the yellow glow behind the window bars forced an old memory to flash in his mind.


    Disturbed, he pulled back his head and lifted his goggles, letting out an exasperated gasp. Unease filled his chest as a fresh scar clawed at the back of his mind.


    ¡°What happened? Is something the matter?¡± The woman asked as she heard his labored breathing.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ conditions aren¡¯t exactly favorable.¡± Two-Zero-One responded as he opened his hand, letting the snow fall in.


    ¡°You left most of your gear in the car.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not gonna be here for too long, right? Get to the cliff, shoot, get back down.¡± He replied dismissively.


    ¡°It¡¯s better to be prepared.¡±


    A cold breeze swept through, ¡°Ugh¡­ Whose brilliant idea was it to have my first mission be on the mountain?¡±


    ¡°... Professor Tetsuya¡¯s.¡±


    ¡°Of course¡­¡± The boy rolled his eyes, ¡°Why did they choose me? There¡¯s barely even two kilometers of distance, any other agent could make this shot. This is basically routine.¡±


    There was a short pause before the voice on the other end responded, ¡°Have you ever aimed at a real person before?¡±


    His mouth opened for a second. The faint rumble of thunder could be heard in the distance.


    All he had to do was watch and pull the trigger at the right moment. Physically, it was something he had done hundreds of times. Although much colder than his usual training, it was routine nonetheless. Mentally, he was taking his first step into unfamiliar territory.


    He closed his mouth and tried to gulp down as silently as possible.


    ¡°All of the agencies are watching you, Agent Two-Zero-One. They will evaluate everything after the mission. They want to see what you can do. Or if you can even do it. If you were worth their investm¡ª¡± There was a slight crackle between her words.


    The deep, monotonous gray was creeping in from the distance.


    ¡°What happens¡­ if I fail?¡± He hesitantly asked.


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more.


    ¡°If you fail, then¡ª¡± The voice on the other side was suddenly cut off with a high pitched snapping.


    ¡°Ahk!¡± He yelled out, ¡°Command? Command, do you copy?¡±


    The cold air hissed as another gust of wind swept by.


    A stiff numbness ran through his fingers, ¡°If I fail... They¡¯ll stuff me back in that white box¡­¡± His voice shivered as he remembered being trapped inside the empty, white-painted walls.


    Two-Zero-One tightened his grip on the rifle. With nervous eyes, he looked back inside the villa, his goggles hanging over his head.


    Even though his scope would come to focus, flickers of snow blocked his view every other second. The render was unclear from such a distance, yet he saw a warm glow radiating from the brown interior.


    He continued to focus and saw the cozy sight of wooden floors and cream white walls, decorated with yellow lamps. There was a slightly elevated section at the front, which appeared to have been decorated to look like a stage. Around a total of ten people sat below, chatting in what looked to be the audience section of the room. It was a small group of intimate friends and family.


    Static crackled in the boy¡¯s headset, ¡°¡ª¡ªHello? ¡ª you hear me? Do you hear me now?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Y-yeah, I can hear you now¡­¡±


    ¡°Must¡¯ve been some radio interference. Keep me posted.¡±


    ¡°Copy that.¡± He replied.


    Light dimmed inside the villa, and a young girl carrying a violin walked onto the stage. She had platinum white hair, not unlike the snow, and looked almost the same age he was, if not a little younger. Behind her followed a man in a suit, who was likely a butler.


    The girl nodded at the man standing behind her. He couldn¡¯t see it through the scope, but she was smiling excitedly at the butler.


    At the front-most chair sat a gentleman with white streaks in his hair from age and stress.


    The boy adjusted the scope to focus on the old gentleman, ¡°So, that¡¯s him.¡±


    As his finger brushed against the trigger, he suddenly felt something crawl up the back of his throat.


    He quickly covered his mouth, gulping down a bitter bile that was trying to escape his stomach.


    After swallowing the rancid taste, he scanned his surroundings. Ahead of him, less than ten feet away, was a steep drop into a chasm below where the sunlight could not reach, where a haunting pull called out to him. Beyond the cliff was the villa standing atop the other summit. To his sides were the continuous hills surrounded by dense forests. To his right was the sun setting between the mountains, and to his left was the snowstorm brewing in the distance.


    Behind him was the path he had taken to get here. His footsteps, buried beneath a fresh blanket of snow, as if he never set foot there.


    ¡°Where would I even go?¡± He shook his head. There was nowhere to run to. The shafts of golden sunlight were like prison bars.


    He continued to watch as the girl began playing the violin, while her audience watched cheerfully.


    The boy pressed onto his and asked, ¡°Located the CEO and who I assume is his daughter. Any updates on the target?¡±


    ¡°We ¡ª no new updates on the details. D¡ªtermine who¡ª figure it¡ª¡ª¡± Her voice was the only sound other than the howling winds, but even that was blocked out by the weather.


    The winter trees danced to the tune of the weather, signaling the blizzard¡¯s first attack. A gust of wind that pulled his white cloak over his face. The more he struggled to get it off, the more it slapped him in the face.


    After being repeatedly slapped by his own attire, the boy got up on his knees and let the wind blow away the cloak. The blue turtleneck underneath was all that was left to fend him from the frigid frost.


    A gust of wind was enough to send shivers down his spine. The biting cold stiffened his fingers as he tried to get onto the trigger.


    The sun was halfway down the mountain, and the air grew colder with each passing moment.


    But when he returned his gaze through the scope, he saw the heiress try to strike the butler behind her. A struggle ensued, and the butler grabbed her by the throat. Some of the audience members stood up, but they were unable to get close, as he pressed a pistol to the back of the young girl¡¯s head.


    ¡°Two-Zero-One to command, do you copy? Target has been identified, he has taken the heiress as a hostage. I repeat, the target has the heiress hostage!¡± He pressed into his headset, frantically called out to his handler.


    ¡°Copy¡ª ¡ª I repeat¡ª ¡ª ¡ª¡±


    Static stopped him, letting several critical seconds slip away.


    Tears began streaming down from the girl¡¯s eyes as she froze in the butler¡¯s grasp.


    Without any instruction, Two-Zero-One let out a vicious scowl. He was afraid of being reprimanded, but the feeling of not being allowed to do anything enraged him. ¡°Command, I have line of sight on the target. I repeat, he¡¯s in line of sight. Permission to engage!¡±


    ¡°¡ª¡ª risk shooting the heiress. Do not¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡± More static crackled from the other end, until there was nothing left to make out.


    With grit teeth, the black-haired boy looked through the scope, muttering, ¡°Sorry, command, but¡­¡±


    As his finger pressed the trigger, a bright flash from the sky blinded him, and the crack of the rifle was drowned out by the thunderous roar that followed.


    But the bullet itself vanished to the white curtain of rushing snow.


    When the sound of thunder died down, he quickly opened his eyes and looked back into the interior. He saw the violin drop to the wooden floor, and saw the girl¡¯s face.


    A pit formed in his chest as he saw her eyes, the horrified expression she had. The betrayal in her eyes as a man close to her, a man who stepped on the stage with her, was about to take her life.


    With his teeth clenched, the boy reloaded.


    Full of rage and panic, he set his sights on the butler¡¯s head. As he was about to pull the trigger, everything in front of him suddenly turned white.


    For a moment, there was nothing. No sound and nothing to see. It was as if his senses had been stripped away. Or rather, the thickness in his head made it feel dull and blocked out, as if everything was faded and hazy.


    Just the numbing quiet and a dim white void ¡ª and all he could do was breathe in once.


    As the cold air filled his lungs, a crack of lightning shattered the silence, leaving a high-pitched ringing in his ears which was gradually being replaced by the blaring winds brushing against his hair.


    He instinctively clenched his hands, and felt that the rifle was missing.


    When his vision cleared up and he found himself several feet in the air, he realized that the rushing white wave was a blast of snow that sent him skyward.


    As soon as he grasped his situation, gravity¡¯s grip pulled him back to the earth. The biting chill pierced into his skin as he slammed on his back ¡ª While the icy blanket muffled his fall, the impact had forced the bile out his stomach.


    He wheezed without thinking, then grimaced at the taste and started coughing. He sat up and spat out the bitter mixture clogging his throat. He felt the warmth of every trickle drag across his chin, only to turn into ice before reaching the ground.


    But as he vomited, he heard the splintering sound of ice nearby. Slowly, he turned his head to see the shattered fractals just a few feet away from his head.


    Another shard fell down. A bullet shot from the sky. A frozen block of hail.


    He got back up. Ice ran across his veins as he shifted his gaze towards the sky. His thoughts lagged for a moment, processing the scale ¡ªthe sheer magnitude of what was yet to come.


    ~

 Memories Buried by Snow part 2

    Dark clouds spiraling into a vortex. A tempest swirling just above his head.


    The boy hesitantly took a step back, but a small crackle in his ear caused him to slip and fall, ¡°¡ªZero One¡ª¡±


    Her voice made him remember their earlier conversation:


    ¡°All of the agencies are watching you, Agent Two-Zero-One. They will evaluate everything after the mission. They want to see what you can do. Or if you can even do it.¡±


    On the ground, he looked towards the villa. The icy path in front of him was lined scattered bullets, and sitting its edge was the long black barrel of his half-buried rifle.


    He was frozen. Afraid to brave the blizzard, and afraid to face repercussions for abandoning the mission. Unable to take a step forward or back, and staying where he was a guaranteed death sentence.


    Thunders rumbled softly, and his headset crackled once more, ¡°Two ¡ª One, return to the ¡ª¡ªcome back ¡ª before the blizzard¡ª¡±


    A small smile formed on his face as tears welled-up, relieved at the thought of going back. To run away from the oncoming snowstorm.


    But as he hurriedly crawled back to the forest, a strike of lightning turned everything white, and the heiress¡¯ frightened face flashed in his mind. Her fear-filled eyes. Her horrified expression. How the butler was hurting her.


    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    When the brightness faded, his expression was full of anger and determination.


    Balling his hand into a fist, he got back on his feet and marched back to his position.


    The storm punished him for his decision and struck him with a barrage of pale white pellets. Tiny cannonballs that filled his ears with burning explosions and stabbed his cheeks with thousands of invisible needles.


    Every step slid across the snowy surface, pushed back by the blizzard¡¯s relentless assault. Aware that his window of opportunity was getting slimmer.


    Even though he did not know whether the heiress was still alive, he powered through.


    His stiff fingers picked up the sunken bullets in his path, only recovering the two that glimmered above the white blanket. He clung onto them between his fingers and he reached for his rifle, which was toppled over by the wind. It had slid significantly from where he had it aimed.


    It did not take him long to return to his initial position, all he had to do was search for the warm yellow dot in the distance.


    Beyond the frozen rain, however, he saw that the situation had escalated inside. The CEO inside was kneeling in pain and bleeding from his arm, having been shot by the butler, all while his daughter was frozen and crying.


    His target grew increasingly rabid and started shouting and moving in erratically, swaying his gun around as if to tell them to stay back.


    The boy bit his lip, frustrated that he had to wait for the butler to sit still.


    A few more seconds pass. His lip started cracking from the cold as he waited for a better shot.


    Until an opportunity presented itself to him. One of the audience members tried to walk to plead with the butler, taking away his attention from the girl. The shot was clear.


    He had practiced this shot countless times, it was an act he was intimately familiar with. But now, staring at his target¡¯s face, his finger froze against the trigger.


    But his mission was clear. Protect the heiress. There was no room for hesitation or self-doubt.


    He squeezed the trigger ¡ª


    Blood splattered.


    ~

 Memories Buried by Snow part 3

    His mission was clear. Protect the heiress. There was no room for hesitation or self-doubt.


    He squeezed the trigger ¡ª


    Blood splattered.


    A large hailstone struck the boy on the back of his head, staining the powdery blanket.


    From between the two mountains, a fleeting shaft of sunlight illuminated the agent¡¯s body.


    Bleeding on the ground, another hailstone struck dangerously close to his head, snapping him back into consciousness as it broke into icy fractals. Slowly, he turned his head towards the sky.


    The tempest had filled up its arsenal ¡ª A thousand shimmering hailstones suspended in the sky, ready to rain at any moment.


    He instinctively curled into a ball and covered his head, bracing for the onslaught.


    With his eyes closed tight, the bombardment began.


    His ears filled with a symphony of shattering ice. Nature¡¯s vicious downpour left him clueless and disoriented. His limbs quivered with each brutal strike. The countless fractured shards shredded through his shirt, leaving a  dry burn on his skin.


    Frost bit into his flesh and ice seeped into veins.


    Each strike was precise, ruthless, and left him gasping for air. But at the storm¡¯s mercy, there was enough of an interval for him to catch his breath and take in the frozen air.


    Time started to blur ¡ª He couldn¡¯t tell how long it had been since the icy assault began ¡ª but he knew that it had to have been somewhere between thirty seconds and a thousand years.


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­ die yet¡­¡± The agent declared to himself. He gathered enough willpower to open his eyes and crawl forward. ¡°¡­ I still have to¡­¡±


    A scowl formed on his face. His veins began to radiate with a blue light, and his blood began to boil. Heat emanated from him, the thin frost enveloping his body melted away, letting him regain some sensation in his body.


    Even though the frozen air stung, he filled up his chest with a deep inhale.


    Bit by bit, he sluggishly inched his way back towards the rifle with his elbows. Even as the hail repeatedly struck his body. A sharp pain radiated with every half-step he took, but he continued onward regardless.


    The last ray of sunlight led him to his rifle.


    As soon as he grabbed on to the weapon¡¯s strap, it slipped.


    Barely hanging on, his heartbeat pounded against his throat.


    Despite the cold, a drop of sweat a thousand times colder slid across his face.


    Anxiety radiated through his whole body as he watched one of his bullets tumble off the cliff¡¯s edge. Its golden glimmer disappearing into the depths, while his own rifle threatened to drag him down along with it.


    Two-Zero-One instinctively pulled himself back up, the last bullet squeezed tightly between his fingers as he hurriedly placed his hand on solid ground.


    From above, he was relentlessly pelted with hail. On his sides, the ground he desperately clung to was quickly crumbling underneath his chest, while the gun he was barely holding onto was dragging him down into into the darkness.


    This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    There was barely anything for him to maintain his balance. The sound of the shifting snow whispering his slow slide towards the abyss.


    Nature forced him to make a choice ¡ª either drop the gun, or fall with it.


    Rather than continue staring into the abyss, he shifted his gaze back at the villa and thought about the heiress. A snarl formed on his face as he thought about her expression. The memory of someone else flashed in his mind. Another with the same look of fright.


    There was nothing he could do against the blizzard¡¯s vicious assault. The frozen storm wasn¡¯t something he could fight, much less an enemy he could kill. It was just something in the way.


    With grit teeth, he inhaled. The cold air invading inside him as he mustered all of his strength to pull the weapon back up.


    He barely lifted it up to eye-level, and as he looked, the blood from his face blurred his vision, it was difficult to even see. Fortunately, in spite of the blizzard, the villa stood proud with next to no damage.


    But all he needed to see was the orange dot in the darkness.


    Though the blizzard insisted on blocking his view, the flickering sunlight granted him a few seconds of clarity.  As soon as it came into full view, he saw his target walking towards the door with the heiress, while she reached out for her father, who was still bleeding on the ground.


    His heartbeat rang in his ears.


    From outside the window bars, the heiress¡¯ desperate expression while reaching for someone else brought back an older memory.


    In that moment, he caught a glimpse of someone else. Someone with golden hair and golden eyes, crying and reaching out to him from outside iron-bars.


    Hanging halfway into the abyss, he loaded his last bullet.


    With a clear mind, he breathed in. With a focused gaze, his eyes lit up with a strange azure light.


    As he fired his last shot, the recoil slammed him back into solid ground.


    Snow, wind resistance, trajectory ¡ª all of those lost meaning the moment the bullet left the muzzle, leaving a trail of faint blue sparks. It weaved through the falling snow and hail, slipping between the metal bars and crashing through the window, before taking a sharp, upwards turn straight towards the butler¡¯s head.


    In less than a second, the scent of gunpowder was immediately blown away by the blizzard¡¯s last breath.


    The sun had set.


    With a deep groan, the boy quickly returned his gaze towards the villa. Though the hailstorm just passed by, the villa appeared relatively undamaged.


    Through the scope of the rifle, he gazed at the silenced faces of those staring at the blood-stained wall. After a second¡¯s notice, their mouths widely opened, and the screams followed. The panic had erupted for all of the guests, with the exception of the old man who reached for his daughter, and the young girl, who remained stunned on the floor.


    As he embraced his daughter, her blank expression told it all.


    But as the sniper watched, one more hailstone shot down from the sky and shattered his scope. As if to tell him that it was enough, that his job was done, and he should leave.


    He picked up the rifle and all the scattered things that he could find, placed them inside the bag, and slung it over his shoulder, the weight of which nearly toppling him over.


    There was a raspiness to his voice, ¡°All I had to do was pull the trigger, so¡­ why?¡±


    Though his body was stiff and tenderized from the hailstorm, what ached the most was the storm forming in his chest.


    ¡°Why?¡± It was a simple, yet incomplete question. One without an easy answer. Or perhaps the answer was lost somewhere in the blizzard.


    He shook his head, taking a deep exhale, before turning away from the edge. He began his slow descent back, dressed in a torn shirt covered in scrapes and bruises.


    Ahead of him were the wintry black trees. Despite being ravaged by hailstorm, they still stood tall and proud.


    The adrenaline had worn off. His weak knees burned with every step, and a sharp pain started to radiate throughout his body, throbbing, like his blood vessels were filled to burst.


    Yet he noticed that the hail had stopped falling. He glanced upwards, and saw the aurora dancing in the sky. In the darkness of night, he didn¡¯t realize that the blizzard had already passed by.


    Static crackled in his ear and the voice followed, ¡°¡ª Agent Two-Zero-One, do you copy? Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ alive.¡± His voice cracked in pain, letting out a smile, ¡°I¡¯ve successfully completed mission. I¡¯ll be¡ª¡±


    He dropped to the ground, bleeding from the head after a hailstone struck him. One final sucker punch. His body slid uncontrollably, leaving a trail through the frozen blanket, up until his back hit one of the black trees.


    As the powdery pellets sapped away his strength, he tightened his fist and declared, ¡°Not here¡­not yet¡­  I still have to¡­ get answers...¡±


    Blood and bile poured from his head and mouth, the only other thing that his senses registered were the beating footsteps as he was buried by snow.


    ~

 Memories Buried by Snow part 4

    While the winds hummed and whistled, visions of an old rundown warehouse came flooding back in the boy¡¯s thoughts, filled with fire and screams. Hazy, short and fragmented.


    In the darkness, sitting inside a rattling cage, and a voice that boomed with anger from the other side of the door.


    ¡°That was the experimental!¡±


    There was a vision of a syringe with blue and yellow fluid. Then one with a twisted hand buried in rubble as it reached for the sky.


    Followed by the sound of soft giggles, and the voice that asked, ¡°Well, we can¡¯t have that. How about I name you instead? What if your name was¡­¡±


    Two-Zero-One¡¯s mismatched eyes shot open. The azure glow in his right eye had disappeared, and returned to being a dark copper. The skies above were nearly pitch black, partially obscured by the branches.


    ¡°Oh good, y¡¯er still alive. Gave me a scare there.¡± A familiar feminine voice sighed with relief.


    He found himself lying on a log, still within the woodland, still surrounded by snow.


    In front of him was a small crackling fire with barely any wood to sustain it, let alone keep him warm.


    A snowy-haired woman stood nearby, wearing sunglasses, and a green, four-leaf clover necklace dangling over her black suit.


    ¡°I was only s¡¯posed to watch ya from afar, but since ya didn¡¯t come back, I had ta look fer ya. Lucky ya weren¡¯t wearin¡¯ that white cloak, otherwise I¡¯d¡¯ve never found ya.¡± Her tone was a complicated mix of rattled and relieved, any semblance of formality she had in the radio had completely vanished.


    His body was heavy and sore. It was already difficult trying to sit upright, but the added sensation of the soaking cold was dragging him back down. As he settled upright, he noticed the black coat wrapped around his body.


    He took off his headset and asked, ¡°What¡­ happened?¡± His voice was raspy and barely audible.


    ¡°That¡¯s what ya get for not preparing properly.¡± She sighed, ¡°What was it you said? Get to the cliff, shoot, get back down, right?¡±


    ¡°... right.¡± He answered meekly.


    The white-haired woman adjusted her sunglasses, ¡°I admit, I should¡¯a noticed that blizzard sooner. I was tryna tell ya to get out before it got too close, but ya acted on your own accord. Tried to play hero, ya let the CEO get shot in the arm, get yerself beaten up, disappear soon as ya finish the mission, and¡ª¡±


    He shuddered in fear, recognizing that the woman was his handler, and was listing down his mistakes, ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I didn¡¯t¡ª¡±


    ¡°¡­ and ya saved a life¡­¡± The small flame lit up her smile, ¡°You¡¯re a good, kind person, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Memories of all that transpired, of all he did, flashed in his mind. The face of the heiress, the blood-stained wall. Bile immediately built up in his mouth again ¡ª a disgusting taste that he immediately spat out, shivering in both revulsion and frost.


    ¡°Oh, gross.¡± The white-haired woman¡¯s facade of professionalism quickly dropped as she watched him vomit.


    ¡°I killed¡­ someone¡­¡± He muttered out with a clogged, nasally voice. His stomach churning.


    ¡°That¡¯s right¡­ Yer first assignment was to take someone¡¯s life. You killed someone for the first time.¡±


    The white-haired woman pulled out a handkerchief from her pocket and began wiping his chin. ¡°That ain¡¯t something a thirteen year old should ever experience. But you also kept the heiress alive, s¡¯well as every other bloke there. Don¡¯t forget that.¡±


    ¡°¡­ understood.¡± He nodded.


    She tossed the vomit-stained handkerchief away and him a mug full of a dark, brown fluid, ¡°Drink this, should warm ya right up.¡±


    His fingers quivered as he took hold of the mug. The warm wisps rising from it were clearly visible. The heat was soothing to his stiff palms.


    Stolen novel; please report.


    ¡°But¡­ what about the CEO¡­¡± He whimpered.


    She sat down beside him and added, ¡°That tough old bloke¡¯ll be fine. I¡¯m sure he¡¯s just glad his daughter¡¯s alive. Grats, ya succeeded in yer first mission.¡±


    Relief washed over him, and he took a sip, only to stick out his tongue as soon as he tasted it, ¡°¡­This isn¡¯t chocolate?¡±


    ¡°Ya can¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve never had coffee before. Guess it¡¯s only the finest for the Professor¡¯s masterpiece.¡± She spoke in a carefree manner, ruffling his hair.


    ¡°Masterpiece¡­¡± His eyes narrowed as he lowered his gaze.


    The woman laughed awkwardly in response, trying to shrug off the remark, ¡°Sorry. Didn¡¯t mean to offend. It¡¯s only been a year, hasn¡¯t it. Wounds still prob¡¯ly fresh, ain¡¯t it?¡± She blurted out tactlessly.


    ¡°... Every day has been the same since then...¡±


    The white-haired woman let out a concerned exhale and stretched out her arms forward, ¡°If ya want me honest opinion, I can see why the Professor has so much faith in ya. The investment in you was worth every penny, no doubt about it.¡± She spoke loudly.


    Startled, he responded, ¡°Thank you, miss¡­¡±


    ¡°Nocturne¡­ is me codename, but you can call me Luna¡­ Luna Aster.¡±


    ¡°Miss Luna, I¡¯m¡­¡±


    ¡°Felix, right? Everyone in the agency knows about you.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡± The boy, Felix, absent-mindedly took another sip from the coffee as he was lost in thought. As he reflexively spat out the bitter drink, Luna giggled to herself, ¡°Still don¡¯t like it, huh? Let me fix that.¡±


    She took the mug off his hands, ¡°Stay here for a minute, the car¡¯s parked right outside from here.¡±


    Left alone in the woods, he shivered. Though his body was still stiff and sore, he inched closer the small flame.


    The crackle of fire filled the silence as he brought his hands closer to it. The warmth returned feeling into his hands, and he began stretching his fingers.


    ¡°¡­ saved¡­¡± He whispered in raspy voice, recalling the heiress¡¯ expression and how the CEO embraced her. His face relaxed, and he took long, deep inhales.


    Only for a cold gust to wipe out the flame, leaving only the charred wood and crackling embers.


    The heated air faded instantly, turning his relaxed expression into an annoyed pout as the snow began to pour over his head.


    He properly put on the black coat that was draped over his shoulders and blew warm air into his hands.


    Branches creaked, and the sound of snow crunched, signaling her return, ¡°Ah, it looks like the fire went out. But it looks like that black coat suits ya better.¡±


    The white-haired woman handed the mug to the shivering boy. As he took another sip, he immediately blurted out, ¡°Sugar?¡± The taste was now much sweeter than before.


    ¡°Two creams and three sugars, to be exact. It¡¯s me favorite.¡± She answered warmly as she sat down beside him.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ nice¡­ thank you.¡± He hurriedly chugged down half the drink to warm himself up.


    ¡°In spite¡¯a everything ye went up against, ya stood y¡¯er ground and survived a hailstorm, an¡¯ somehow completed yer first mission. No wonder them scientists keep tryna turn more people like ya¡­ ¡± She mused as she gazed towards the night sky.


    Flustered, he gazed into his coffee. The blue glow radiating from his left eye reflected in the dark drink. He sipped through the cup.


    The wind began to howl, and snow started dropping from the branches.


    ¡°Time to go. Any longer and the cold¡¯s gonna kill the both of us.¡±


    ¡°Back to the agency?¡± His eyebrows curled, there was a bitterness to his question.


    ¡°Ya ain¡¯t dead, but y¡¯er still beaten up badly. So let¡¯s get ya to a hospital first.¡±


    ¡°Ah, mhm¡­¡± He nodded.


    Sensing the dilemma in his voice, she then commented, ¡°After that, how about we go to uh¡­¡± She placed her hand on her chin, ¡°Well, y¡¯er too young for a pub. So how ¡®bout we go anywhere you like?¡±


    ¡°Somewhere I like? But¡­ I don¡¯t really know anywhere¡­¡± His hands squeezed the cup.


    ¡°Then I¡¯ll show you places.¡±


    ¡°Ah, okay. Thank you¡­¡±


    ¡°Truth is, I should be the one thankin¡¯ you.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Luna suddenly slapped his back with a cheery smile, before walking towards the car outside the woodland, ¡°Hurry up, agent.¡±


    He hurriedly finished the coffee and followed her out of the woodland. As he stepped out, he saw the open skies, waves of light dancing with blue, green and cyan hues.


    ¡°Them scientists really want to turn more people like ya. Eventually, there was a breakthrough in their research, did ya know that?¡± She stood just a few meters away from him, her white hair swaying in the winter winds.


    Luna lifted up her sunglasses and turned to face him.


    ¡°Miss, your eyes¡­¡±


    Her eyes radiated with an orange glow. The same color as fire.


    ¡°¡­ Technically I ain¡¯t at your caliber yet, but thanks to your DNA¡­ you¡¯re not alone anymore.¡±


    Iridescent auroras danced in the distance, yet her eyes stood out the most to him. Her eyes radiated with the color of the fire, no, the color of sunset, ¡°Y¡¯er still a long ways from becoming the light of the future¡­ But don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll teach ya.¡±


    The car engine started. The heater hummed as Luna drove. Felix sat in the back of the car, sharing the space with a red spear lying in the back.


    His face pressed against the window, the monotonous black and white flashed by, coming and going, yet the blue glow in his eye remained ever stagnant. Unlike those ephemeral moments that quickly disappear, he will always remember the taste of his first coffee, and the warmth he felt in his chest.


    As the exhaustion set in, his eyelids grew too heavy. The last thing he saw was Luna¡¯s white hair waving back and forth from the driver¡¯s seat.


    *


    As the years passed, Felix sat on the blue leather chair.


    ¡°Felix?¡± A soft voice called his name.


    He opened his mismatched eyes, meeting the gaze of a young black-haired woman seated across from him.


    ¡°We¡¯re here. Are you ready?¡± She asked.


    He squeezed the four-leaf clover dangling in front of his shirt, glancing out the window and the darkness outside, he answered, ¡°Yeah¡­ I¡¯m ready.¡±


    ~

 Mismatched Eyes part 1

    Chapter 1


    Mismatched Eyes


    Three years ago.


    Concrete towers decorated with vibrant screens illuminated the night sky, as if to defy the darkness, soaking the Chinese streets with blinding neon signs. Underneath all of the colorful assortment of lights, was a symphony of advertisement songs, the honking of cars, and the countless conversations, which all coalesced into a senseless blur that the citizens had long learned to tune out.


    Some of them walked hastily to and from work, exhausted and disheveled, regardless of age and gender. Some relaxed with their backs leaned against the walls, taking long drags from cigarettes to calm their nerves.


    Hooded teenagers in dark clothing took their artistic skills to paint over the windows of a building still under construction, leaving behind a depiction of a man adorned in blue lightning dueling a large yellow serpent.


    College students were dining in fast food restaurants with a logo of a lion, while high school students were playing in internet cafes.


    As the city went about its regular routine, the neon hues from the large screens were washed out by a tower of light shooting from the center of the city.


    Heads turned and lifted up as everyone curiously looked at what was happening.


    The onlookers gazed with varying reactions. Many stood in awe at the shining spectacle, while others were more apprehensive, and there were even a few who were apathetic at first, but their curiosity immediately got the better of them.


    None of them could pull away from the dazzling sight that disturbed the usual night. The golden pillar of light that dominated the sky, shimmering with crystal-like patterns that demanded their attention.


    They all stood back and idly observed it from a safe distance.


    Many of the younger people were quick to pull out their phones, excited to take photos and videos of and with the golden beam, only for their expressions to turn sour as their LED screens instantly turned black as they put it in the frame.


    A businessman standing at the edge of the light let his curiosity get the better of him, and he reached his hand out to it. Though most people were apathetic and moved along to do their daily routines, there were a handful of those who watched intently to see what would happen to him.


    He flinched as sparks flew the moment his palm made contact with its surface. But his face calmed down as he felt it. The movement. The warmth. How it flowed upwards felt similar to hot steam. Though the bright color reminded the businessman of fire, it was harmless.


    He looked at his audience and gave them a reassuring smile and a thumbs up, only for him to notice that the light had slowly enveloped his entire hand. It had expanded without him even noticing, and he started to feel his hand being squeezed from every direction.


    The people slowly backed away as soon as they noticed the man¡¯s shift in expression. He tried pulling his arm back, but it was trapped inside the amorphous light. There was a tight grip that would not let him get his arm back, slowly swallowing him whole ¡ª no, it was slowly expanding all around him.


    Though he tried to keep himself composed, his face gave it all away ¡ª dread.


    Frightened shrieks then filled the businessman¡¯s ears as he looked around, realizing with a sheer panic that those who copied him were experiencing the same fate.


    That ear piercing voice was the signal for all of them to start running. The businessman watched as several of them started sprinting without hesitation, while he had remained stuck where he stood.


    But before he could call for help, a sharp tingle coursed through his flesh, followed by a tingly numbness that coursed through his veins.


    The businessman realized in horror that not only was the crushing light growing, but that he was also being electrocuted.


    His heartbeat was in his mouth, pounding loudly into his ears, while the hot light swallowed his arms. No longer able to keep himself composed, he took in a deep breath, but before he could scream, the light swallowed him whole.


    Shrieks of panic overtook the music, while the stampede filled up the streets, trapping the people inside their vehicles. There was no way they could push through the dozens of people standing in front of them.


    Those who could not escape their homes locked their doors, hoping for safety. Parents hugged their children, and held their grandparents, praying that this would all go away.


    A tidal wave of shimmering flames swept through every nook and cranny of the road, casting a yellow glow that shut down every device and machine that it came in contact with.


    News helicopters recorded the pillar¡¯s gradual transformation into a round, burning sphere. But not even they were safe from getting caught in its rapid expansion.


    It quickly enveloped the people on their feet, and eventually swallowed those inside vehicles.


    Only the motorcycles were able to slip past and squeeze their ways out of the city, their engines blaring deafeningly on their way out. One rider in particular, a tanned man, stopped in front of a young girl sitting next to a woman lying bloody on the ground, trampled under the stampede of scared citizens rushing to escape.


    The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.


    The tanned man reached out his hand for her, but she refused to budge from where she sat. She tried her best to help the woman beside her, but the older woman placed her hand on the girl¡¯s cheek and spoke in her native language, ¡°Go, Yu Ming.¡±


    The young girl forced back her tears and got on the backseat of the motorcycle. The older woman looked at him, as if to entrust her to him, and the tanned man nodded, as if promising to keep her safe.


    His engine blared as he zipped past everyone running in front of him, leaving behind both the expanding golden light, and the crying old woman. Without turning back, the two were fleed from the golden flames, and headed to the edge of the city.


    Everything inside the golden dome came to a halt.


    Not a single soul moved an inch where they stood. Not a single one could.


    Even the helicopter¡¯s blades froze, and the people inside found themselves locked in the sky.


    There was little sound, and those who were trapped in the transparent yellow could only hear the thumping of their own heartbeats and the thin crackle of electricity in their ears as static ran through their veins.


    The air in their lungs was trapped, gradually causing their insides to ache and burn.


    Even though the haze felt hot, there were no marks, burns or blisters. Only a pervasive discomfort.


    Few were able to muster just enough strength to move their fingers, while most were completely frozen in the crystalline haze.


    The strings of electricity coursing through their veins made it feel impossible to move, but it did not prevent those from trying.


    With desperate strength, fathers with families, mothers with children, and individuals with strong physiques were able to push through.


    The businessman who first touched the pillar saw a silhouette walking in the center within it ¡ª a figure bathed in a light.


    A crystalline haze poured out of the figure¡¯s body, cloaking them, making it impossible to see their features. Only the golden pupils, whose gaze met with his own.


    Under the golden figure intent stare, the businessman felt the pressure on his body loosen for a moment. Rather, it started to pull from every direction. Tugging away at every inch of him.


    Golden zigzags relentlessly pulled him apart. The fabric on his clothes were pulled by the strings, and a thousand particles of light pulled his skin apart.


    A numbing agony ran through his body as he was taken apart. Each layer fragmented ¡ª Flesh, muscles, veins and bones, all disassembled.


    Though his mouth stretched wide, no scream escaped him.


    Every fiber of who he was pulled into infinitesimal specks, until nothing remained but a man-shaped stain.


    The golden being then raised their arms, heralding the slow hush of destruction.


    Gradually, as if something was pressing down on them, the skyscrapers started to crumble. Breaking apart piece by piece, little by little. There was no fanfare, no deafening boom, no blood curdling noise that sent shivers. The destruction was accompanied by an overwhelming silence, it was muted, as if submerged in the deepest depths of the ocean.


    The same fate awaited everything within the spiraling flames. People, animals, and inanimate objects were all subjected to the same silent destruction.


    From the top of their heads to the bottom of their shoes, they were all disassembled.


    Everything and everyone within started falling down and crumbling to dust.


    Those who could move forced out every last ounce of their energy, some of them were even able to gain momentum. Dozens of individuals were even able to start running, gradually getting through hundreds of meters through the haze.


    Even as the golden dome continued to expand, they continued to run regardless.


    The tanned motorcyclist passed through many of the people running away, and saw the forest at the edge of the city. Yet the golden flames were mere meters from reaching him.


    One girl in a uniform was the very edge, and the girl behind the tanned motorcyclist reached out to grab her. But as the student reached out to her, and the two grabbed each other¡¯s hands, the golden light caught ¡ª Only and the student¡¯s hand was the last part of her that remained.


    From the outskirts, a helmeted figure clad in a black suit approached the edge of the city, cutting through the silence with the motorcycle engine¡¯s roar. The helmet¡¯s visor reflected the star-like structure that engulfed everything on the horizon.


    As the helmeted rider made it to the edge of the city, it nearly came into a collision course with another motorcycle came racing from within the city.


    The helmeted rider sharply swerved over to the side and saw the two riders panic and lose control of their vehicle. The couple who were desperately fleeing from the catastrophe behind them nearly met with another disaster ahead of them, straight towards a tree.


    ¡°Bollocks.¡± The helmeted figure extended their arm, and a red spear radiated with a fiery glow sprung out from the motorcycle and struck the two precisely by the back of their clothes, pulling them away at the last second before impact.


    The unknown individual removed her helmet, revealing long silver-hair swaying with the eerie, silent wind of the flattened city. Her eyes radiated with the color of fire.


    ¡°You both okay?¡± The silver-haired woman, Luna, asked.


    The tanned man answered, ¡°Huh? Ah, yeah¡­ yeah, thank¡­ how did you¡­ do that?¡± He asked in a disoriented manner.


    Luna opened her palm, calling upon her weapon, which then flew towards her. ¡°You both should leave.¡± She warned as she looked back into the golden disaster that was still expanding.


    With a swift swing, she cut through the golden flames, holding it back for a few seconds.


    ¡°Ah, a-alright¡­¡± He nodded and looked at the paralyzed girl. He took the student¡¯s severed hand off of her and lifted her up, putting her back on the motorcycle and resumed getting away, all while the silver-haired woman watched as her own ride crumbled into a flat sheet of metal and rubber.


    The golden flames slowed down to a halt, and the expansion stopped right where she stood, and began to dissipate into dancing golden particles.


    ¡°Would ya look at that. My luck hasn¡¯t run out, after all.¡± As the structure began to fade away, the silver-haired woman pressed into her earpiece and spoke, ¡°Professor Tetsuya, I¡¯ve arrived.¡±


    ¡°Luna¡­¡± The Professor responded, ¡°Make sure you come home.¡±


    ¡° ¡®Course, I promised Felix I¡¯d take him to his first pub when I get back.¡± She smirked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s appropriate for a child. Regardless, you know what to do. Good luck, and leave nothing to chance.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    She marched into what was left of the once bustling city, her boots stepping over the fragmented concrete.


    A desolate wind blew across the landscape, the city¡¯s dying breath.


    The proud skyscrapers were no where to be seen. There were no hollow husks, nor any metal structures left to represent how tall they stood. Only fragmented mounds of concrete piled atop one another.


    Window glass littered the ground, mixed with everything else.


    There was no ground zero, no epicenter of the blast. Only where it began and where it ended. The catastrophe flattened everything in equal measure, which made it easy for Luna to locate her target.


    Men, women and children were crushed into red stains and powdered bones mixed with the small debris. They were the only things that stood out.


    In the darkness of night, through the leveled city, it did not take long for her to find who she was looking for.


    Blood splattered to the ground, dripping down from the nose of a golden figure, whose body was bathed in a thick, golden glow that streamed upwards.


    ¡°Lookie what we have here.¡± Luna twirled her spear, ¡°Finally found you, and luckily fer me, yer all out of energy.¡±


    The golden figure looked back at the spearwoman, with bright golden irises.


    ~

 Mismatched Eyes part 2

    Present day.


    On the dusty flat ground lay a solitary figure with raven black hair. A young man with a bead of sweat trickling down from his brow, to his nearly opaque goggles, to his cheek, while he adjusted his aim on the rifle.


    His target, a wooden dummy, hid behind nine others that already had holes in the center of their chests, taken out with incredible accuracy.


    Staring down the scope of his rifle, he fired.


    An ear-splitting sound rang out of the firearm, sharp and quick ¡ª another bullseye.


    The target shattered, and its wooden fragments flew over the grass fields behind it. Had this been a real person, they would have dropped dead.


    Directly above him, the display on the black screen changed from a score of ninety into a score of one-hundred ¨C It was a perfect ten out of ten.


    A small smirk formed on his face. It was clear that he was satisfied with himself. But as he looked over to the distance, he saw several trainees still fighting on the field, and his smirk deflated. He glanced around, and saw the closest people near him were more than a hundred meters across.


    Though he had already finished the course, the young man reloaded his rifle once more. He paid no mind to the discomfort he felt laying on the dirty ground under the scorching sun.


    He was alone. So, he did what he wanted.


    Rather than target the center, which he had already perfectly shot, the young man focused his attention on the target¡¯s head instead.


    One hundred meters once more. A second attempt outside of his usual routine.


    His fingers brushed against the trigger, and a familiar sight flashed in his mind. A warmly lit window against a stormy blizzard. Like a candle light being devoured into a white void.


    A sharp sting clawed against the back of his head, and he grit his teeth. He felt a sense of irritation, but this memory was one he was trying to call upon.


    Hidden behind his goggles emanated a mysterious, unnatural light from his left eye, turning the opaque glass blue.


    There was a moment of hesitation as he pressed his finger on the trigger. He drew a deep breath through his teeth and mumbled under his breath, ¡°Come on¡­ work.¡±


    A drop of sweat slid down his face as he focused, and as soon as it dropped to the dry ground ¡ª he fired.


    The gun¡¯s recoil pushed against him as azure particles burst from its muzzle.


    A hole formed on the target, but the bullet struck on the white space inches from the target¡¯s head.


    ¡°Tsk. Bollocks.¡± He clicked his tongue. Though it did not affect the score on the board, he still felt irritated by his mistake.


    His perfect streak was ruined, and the blue light behind his goggles faded.


    The young man returned to the bench, and picked up a cup full of coffee that had been sitting there since he first started.


    He lifted his goggles, and swiped his raven black hair to the side, revealing his mismatched eyes of dark copper and sapphire blue, the latter of which appeared to be faintly glowing, but its radiance was almost unnoticeable in broad daylight.


    Beneath his copper right eye was a small mole, it was the only other thing that stood out from his face.


    The sun-bathed training field was full of sparring trainees, and smelled of sweat and metal, as it usually does. There was nothing out of the ordinary, it was the same old routine, the same old grunts and yells that blended into one another.


    His back hunched as he took a sip from his foam cup, which had cooled down as the hours passed.


    Another slow day, huh?


    His expression was dull and dry as he silently stared at the trainees sparring with each other.


    All he could do was watch and take sips of soothing coffee in solitude as the slow day went by. Above him fluttered a red flag with an insignia of a golden lion printed on it.


    A few clouds passed by before he got up from the bench and stretched his arms outwardly.


    ¡°Sir Felix!¡± A voice called out for the young man, snapping him out of his lonesome thoughts.


    Felix stood up from his bench as a man in a black suit called to him from the shade of the building. With a pen and a clipboard in hand, the man spoke with a gentle tone, ¡°I¡¯m sorry for calling out to you, but the heat was rather harsh, sir.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah... Have the car prepared for me, Murphy.¡± The young man replied despondently as he took the documents from the agent¡¯s hands.


    ¡°A-actually, sir, the chief called for you directly.¡± The suited man, Murphy, clarified.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± His stomach turned a little. It was a gut feeling that told him that his quiet day would go down the slope. He handed back the clipboard to the agent before walking into the building.


    ¡°Hey, I¡¯m a little bored so can I keep your pen?¡± He asked as he showed the pen still in his hand.


    ¡°S-sure.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    Felix fiddled with the pen with a look of disinterest as he made his way through the cold, chrome corridors.


    What¡¯s so important that the Chief has decided to talk to me directly?


    The agents in his path silently stepped to the side as he passed through. Though he paid them no mind, as he got closer to the chief¡¯s office, a middle-aged man approached from the opposite direction, refusing to step aside.


    ¡°If it isn¡¯t the Child of Stars.¡± A raspy old voice greeted. ¡°How long has it been?¡±


    Oh god, no.


    The young man shuddered as his fear was confirmed. A familiar, stubby, man with aged white hair stood in front of him. walked towards him from the other side of the corridor.


    ¡°Two months I hadn¡¯t seen you¡­ Was hoping to make it three.¡± He spoke out loud.


    ¡°As rude as ever, I see. So, how are you doing?¡±


    ¡°I was doing much better a minute ago. You know, before I got to see your face, Professor Tetsuya.¡±


    ¡°Haha, good to know you¡¯re doing quite well.¡± The old man answered dryly, as if going through routine.


    ¡°¡®Well¡¯ is relative considering what I¡¯ve become.¡±


    The professor stroked his white beard, ¡°What you have become is the first step towards the future.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, the latest link in the evolutionary chain to bring about everlasting peace.¡± Felix snidely mimicked the phrase that he¡¯s heard a hundred times. ¡°So, about my right eye?¡± He asked not about his glowing blue iris on the left, but the plain dark one on the right.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    The professor grumbled, ¡°It will turn blue in due time. When that happens, your gifts will finally¡­ Oh my, I can hardly wait.¡± He then stopped and looked at Felix with a concerned expression, ¡°Until then, let¡¯s hope that you get along with the next generation.¡±


    ¡°Next generation? Wasn¡¯t the Implementation was shut down?¡±


    ¡°Merely postponed, but it resumed last year after receiving funding. Hence why I have been gone for so long. We have just went through another batch.¡±


    ¡°It resumed¡­?¡± He echoed bitterly.


    The old man opened up one eye to look at him, ¡°Does that bother you?¡±


    Felix put a brave front, and with a shrug, he answered, ¡°¡­Not really. As long as I make it to the top of the leaderboard, it doesn¡¯t concern me. It won¡¯t be fun without a challenge.¡±


    ¡°There are many monsters out there. Even from different projects than our own. If you really intend to climb the ranks, then you¡¯ll have your chance starting now. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll surpass them all, even David.¡±


    There was a sudden snap that echoed across the hall. The pen in Felix¡¯s hand was broken in half. A sweat dripped down from the professor¡¯s face, startled by the sound. Yet Felix just smiled, saying ¡°Right, right¡­ I have to meet with the chief now, so.¡±


    ¡°The recent batch had only one survivor. She¡¯s a rather lively girl, so I hope that you both will get along.¡±


    ¡°Only one, huh? Hope I meet them soon.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Call me as soon as you need my assistance.¡± The professor smiled in amusement.


    ¡°I won¡¯t.¡± He happily replied.


    The two of them began to walk in opposite directions, and their steps echoed across the chrome halls.


    A few minutes later, Felix stood in front of the chief¡¯s deep black door.


    Only one survivor? So she¡¯s like me¡­


    He reached for the knob, but quickly retreated his hand as his blue eye suddenly strained.


    Fragments of a shattered memory invaded his mind, filling it with incomplete visions of fires and red flashes. He struggled and stumbled in the empty hall, wanting to claw out his eye.


    A vision of the golden girl reaching her hand out to him, trapped inside the fiery sphere of golden light.


    With shaky fingers, he reached under his shirt and pulled out a pendant of an old four-leaf clover. He took a deep breath and clutched it tightly.


    But it¡¯s not like I forgot how it felt.


    ¡°Felix Aster, requesting permission to enter.¡±


    A soft feminine voice answered from the other side, cheerful, ¡°Come in~ We have milk and cook¡ª ow, ow, that hurts, stop it! Thtap it!!¡±


    His eyebrow raised with uncertainty due to the unexpected response.


    When he opened the door, he was met with a peculiar sight. Inside the office, the chief he knew to be stoic was wearing an irritated scowl while pinching the crumb-covered cheeks of a young woman on the couch.


    ¡°I can see you¡¯re... busy.¡± He said as he slowly pulled back the door.


    But before he could close it, the grey-haired older woman coughed, stopping him in his tracks, ¡°Ah-hem.¡±


    He sighed and went back to the office. He turned around and looked at the table, which actually had a platter of milk and cookies placed on top of it.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Am I going on a simulation, Chief?¡± He asked with furrowed eyes.


    ¡°Not quite. Allow me to introduce you to Maria Readman. Codename; Venom Vanguard.¡± The chief pointed toward the young woman dressed in a black shirt with a pizza printed on it.


    ¡°Or¡­ or just V.V. for short.¡± The dark-haired woman interjected.


    ¡°Uh, nice to meet you¡­ um¡­ Venom¡­ is she a new recruit?¡± Felix asked the chief in a manner that did not acknowledge the young woman¡¯s presence in the room.


    ¡°Indeed, yet this young lady possesses field experience, as opposed to your combat simulations.¡± The chief uttered in a mocking tone as she pushed back her dark gray hair to the side.


    ¡°Well, maybe if you¡¯d let me out in the field instead of long-distance assassinations, I might just improve.¡± His voice dripped with petulance.


    The chief walked back to her desk by the wall of the room behind the window. ¡°It was Professor Tetsuya¡¯s call to make it so you wouldn¡¯t be sent out to actual combat. He wanted to ¡®test the waters¡¯ long enough to see if you could handle it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the best agent here.¡±


    ¡°Then explain why you¡¯re ranked thirteenth?¡± The chief shot back sharply as she pushed up her round, orange-tinted glasses. ¡°You can¡¯t even do the things David can yet.¡±


    He clenched his fist and clicked his tongue, unable to respond. Maria tilted her head awkwardly as she silently watched.


    ¡°But I suppose that is why he wouldn¡¯t allow you to be compromised until you were ready. They wouldn¡¯t want their financial support wasted without ever achieving anything of value.¡±


    With a disingenuous grin, he asked, ¡°And when will I be ready?¡±


    ¡°Now.¡±


    ¡°Wait, really?¡± He was taken aback by the Chief¡¯s immediate reply.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. This is why I wanted to introduce you to her. For you to get to know each other.¡±


    Felix glanced down to see the young woman staring at him with wide and curious black eyes, ¡°Know each other?¡±


    Chief turned her head towards the black-haired girl, as if to give her permission to speak, ¡°Maria.¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± The young woman gulped down the cookies stuffed in her cheeks and walked up to the young man.


    ¡°Hi there! My name is um¡­ M-Maria Readman, codename Venom Vanguard, or V.V. But honestly, I¡¯d just prefer that you call me Marie. Nice to meet you.¡± She introduced herself with multiple names, and stretched out her hand towards Felix with a carefree demeanor.


    The young woman stood much shorter than he did, and had ebony black hair.


    ¡°Uh, likewise.¡± He awkwardly shook her hand.


    ¡°This girl, with the mouth stuffed with cookies, is an Elite Agent?¡±


    ¡°Her records are rather shaky, but she¡¯s the real deal.¡± Chief remarked.


    ¡°Heterochromia?¡± Maria muttered curiously as she got a closer look at him. She stared into his blue eye, radiating with a foreign, unfamiliar, almost alien-like light.


    ¡°Yeah, I got it after the implementation.¡± He replied as he looked at the hand he shook with, which was now covered in cookie crumbs.


    She tilted her head and asked, ¡°Yeah, weren¡¯t they both supposed to change and start glowing?¡±


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m still undergoing the process¡­¡±


    ¡°Strange¡­ I-I¡¯m sorry what was your name again? Sorry, I¡¯m bad at names¡­¡±


    ¡°Felix Aster.¡±


    ¡°Felix¡­ Aster? As in the Black Cat of Ruin?¡± Maria immediately turned to the chief as she pointed at him with a squeal of excitement in her voice.


    ¡°Indeed.¡± The chief answered.


    ¡°The Black Cat bit is¡­ actually not official.¡± He mumbled out.


    ¡°Wait but then why do people call you that?¡±


    ¡°It probably has something to do with my eyes.¡± Felix scratched his cheek as he clarified.


    ¡°So¡­ child of stars, then?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, let¡¯s not go with that.¡±


    With both hands clasped behind her back, she leaned in close with a big smile and uttered, ¡°Could you be fun I wonder?¡±


    His eyebrows curled as he pushed her head back with his index finger, ¡°Huh? Is something wrong with you?¡±


    She giggled in a cold yet cheerful tune, ¡°A great, many things.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind her, she just has some childish tendencies. She¡¯s enhanced, just like you.¡±


    He looked over to the chief, ¡°Wait, what?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s a first stage.¡±


    His focus then returned to the young woman, who sat back down and took more cookies.


    The professor said I would meet them soon, but¡­ already?


    ¡°Like you, she was the sole survivor of the previous batch. So please, do try to get along.¡±


    Maria stared idly as she continued to take cookies from the table, silently stuffing them in her mouth.


    From the chief¡¯s desk, a holographic projection popped out.


    Felix¡¯s eyebrows curled with curiosity as he read it out loud, ¡°The Dragon of the Little Sun¡­ in Beijing? Why send us to some small-time mafia group?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯d send operatives already stationed there, but it appears that they¡¯ve either gone MIA, or the ravens have brought back their corpses to us.¡±


    His lips parted, startled by the information.


    The chief lifted her gaze with a cold stare. ¡°Besides, if you¡¯re serious about making it to the top of the leaderboard, then¡­¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t refusing.¡±


    ¡°Keep a low profile, infiltrate the facility and assist Maria to gather information.¡± The chief explained, handing the two agents the documents.


    ¡°Hmm, intel gath¡ªWait, did you say assist?¡±


    ¡°We can¡¯t have you taking the wrong documents¡­ again.¡±


    ¡°But¡ª¡±


    ¡°Before you say anything, it¡¯s not simply your incompetence to work with technology. Maria is a professional cracker, her skills are top notch. Your job is to protect her. Keep her alive and safe.¡±


    ¡°Protect her? But I¡¯ve never done anything like this before.¡±


    ¡°Guess it¡¯s time for you to learn, best agent. Your main problem will be getting into the building; Maria can handle the rest once you get inside while you protect her.¡±


    He glanced over behind him and saw the girl perch her head over her hands.


    ¡°No worries, this won¡¯t be your usual escort mission. I won¡¯t be the useless NPC who gets in the way.¡± The young woman smiled.


    He responded with a puzzled look, ¡°A what?¡±


    ¡°You have my permission to kill, but preferably keep the damages to a minimum. I reiterate. Keep. The Damages. Minimum. Both of you. We don¡¯t want the tensions to rise any higher. Am I understood?¡± The chief emphasized with each breath.


    ¡°Crystal.¡±


    ¡°If you understand, then you are dismissed. Good luck, and leave nothing to chance.¡± The chief said as she sat down and pulled out a cigarette.


    ¡°Yessir.¡± Both agents replied, but as Felix saluted, Maria glanced over and mirrored his motion with a peppy smile.


    The two headed for the door with Maria walking out first.


    But as he was about to leave, the chief called out, ¡°Felix.¡±


    ¡°Uh, yeah?¡±


    ¡°There have been a number of agents going off the grid lately. Even the ones in the leaderboard. Several MIAs. Corpses are piling up.¡±


    ¡°I know.¡± He answered dismissively.


    Refusing to let him leave the room immediately, she spoke with a concerned tone. ¡°This is not a simulation. Nor is it a long-ranged assassination. You will be in danger, and she won¡¯t be here to protect you. If you really want to make it to the top, don¡¯t die.¡±


    His eyebrows curled at her sincere words, and simply nodded to reassure her, ¡°Right.¡±


    As he exited the room, he lowered his head and sighed. Maria, who was in front of him, lifted up the metal platter right at his face, ¡°So, um¡­ cookie?¡±


    ¡°When did you get that?¡± He scowled at her for a few seconds.


    The young woman slowly felt uneasy by his stare, ¡°You¡­ don¡¯t like cookies?¡±


    ¡°Sigh, thanks.¡± He dryly replied as he took the cookie from the platter.


    She¡¯s actually really cute when I look at her closely.


    As he took a bite, his expression softened as he muttered, ¡°Mhmm, this would go well with some coffee¡­¡±


    ¡°Right?¡± Her eyes quickly sparkled as she looked at him eating it ¡°I have more, oh, and this is also really good!¡±


    The conversation continued back and forth between the happy-go-lucky lady and the silent young man as they went off to prepare for the mission.


    ~

 Mismatched Eyes part 3

    After the briefing, the two operatives, Felix and Maria readied their gear. With briefcase in hand, they stepped outside to the wide blue skies. A gust of winded greeted them from the black jet parked and waiting for their arrival.


    They settled into their blue leather seats across from one another, without saying a word.


    With hours still left before they could reach their destination, the silence stretched. Felix opened his briefcase and examined his gear. Inside was a radio, firearms and ammunition, documents, a data storage device and other tools.


    He pulled out a box-shaped firearm, cobalt in color, with a deep blue grid like pattern on the top, and began to inspect it.


    Maria saw her reflection in the weapon¡¯s sleek blue sheen, and with an awkward expression, broke the silence, ¡°Soooo, anything on your mind?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m thinking of how to infiltrate the building. According to this, there¡¯s only one entrance, so getting in is going to be tricky¡ª¡± He responded blankly, still focused on the weapon.


    ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡±


    ¡°Ah, then what?¡± Felix awkwardly smiled.


    ¡°I was thinking more like... talking about things other than the mission.¡±


    ¡°Oh, why?¡±


    ¡°Like the chief said, we should get to know each other. Build trust, y¡¯know?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡± Clueless and put on the spot, he placed the cobalt-colored gun atop a black case and put his thumb against his chin.


    ¡°Oh god, what have they done to you?¡± She blurted out.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never really done this before, so this is all rather new to me.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not inspiring confidence in me.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Rest assured; I¡¯ll protect you.¡± Felix answered.


    A sudden ding sounded, grabbing both of their attention. A flight attendant approached, holding a pen and paper in hand.


    With a polite smile, she asked, ¡°Mister Aster, Miss Readman, what would you like today?¡±


    ¡°Mimosa!¡± Maria spoke with excitement.


    ¡°Coffee, two creams, three sugars.¡± He said.


    ¡°Understood, your orders will arrive momentarily.¡± The attendant responded with a polite smile before leaving.


    ¡°Being intoxicated isn¡¯t good for the mission.¡± Felix scolded.


    ¡°Nah, it¡¯ll be fine. We¡¯ve got a few hours.¡± She dismissively waved it off, only for her to point her finger at him, ¡°As for you, that¡¯s your third cup of coffee in the past hour.¡±


    ¡°Fourth, actually.¡± .


    ¡°I know you¡¯re ¡®superhuman¡¯, but isn¡¯t that a taaad bit too much?¡±


    ¡°Maybe, but since we¡¯re not exactly normal people anymore¡­¡± Felix gulped down the last bit from his cup.


    ¡°¡­I don¡¯t know how to respond to that.¡± She twiddled her fingers. ¡°Curious though, how does it feel having powers?¡±


    He raised his eyebrows and asked, ¡°You can¡¯t use it?¡±


    ¡°I was told that the powers and the glowing eyes come at stage two, and well after undergoing the first stage¡­ I¡¯m not sure I¡¯m willing to risk it.¡± She snickered with dull, dead eyes.


    ¡°Ah, yeah. I understand. For me it was... it was like¡­¡± Felix looked down and recollected his own hazy experience.


    His brow furrowed as he pinched at his forehead. Nothing was coming back to him, nothing specific.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    As he tried to piece together his foggy memories, fragments came flooding back.


    Only vague recollections of a darkness, sitting behind iron-bars. Then a spherical flame, a burning gold shaped like star, and a fire that surrounded him. Then a severed hand covered in rubble, reaching for the sky, as shafts of sunlight pierced through sifting dust and crumbling, gray ruins.


    Then, Professor Tetsuya¡¯s bleeding face of despair.


    ¡°Are¡­ you okay?¡± Maria¡¯s voice pulled him back to the present.


    Her palm was on his shoulder. Felix looked up with a bead of sweat rolling down his cheek, his eyes met with Maria¡¯s concerned gaze. Her irises were pitch black.


    ¡°Ah, yeah... It¡¯s... I want to tell you, but it¡¯s difficult to explain¡­¡± He gazed at his hand, hoping for something to happen. But looking at his empty palm was all she needed, and understood immediately.


    ¡°Ah¡­ I see.¡± She said in a way that sounded like an apology. As she took her hand on his shoulder, she sat back down.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ unfortunately, we¡¯re in the same boat at the moment.¡± He lamented.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll figure it out eventually.¡± She beamed, ¡°Anyway, since you like coffee so much, let¡¯s start there... any reason for the two creams and three sugars? Is it just the taste?¡± Her lips stretched slightly while her eyebrows curled.


    The young man tilted his head for a moment and answered, ¡°Mhm, it¡¯s how my mentor used to make it. Guess it just stuck.¡±


    ¡°Hoh?¡± Her curiosity piqued, ¡°Must¡¯ve been something you picked up from him.¡±


    ¡°Her, actually. It¡¯s probably the first thing she taught me.¡±


    ¡°I see, so are you two close?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we¡ª were...¡± For a brief moment, his eyes light up before solemnly lowering his head.


    ¡°Were? Oh¡­oh, sorry. I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to¡­¡± She replied, twiddling with her fingers.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine¡­ it¡¯s been a few years so I¡¯ve moved past it.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­moving along, what else can we talk about?¡± Her head tilted her head towards the ceiling. It was difficult for her to find something to talk about.


    He looked down to the table and asked, ¡°Um¡­Do you like coffee?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t dislike it¡­ what about you, anything you like?¡±


    ¡°Coff¡ª¡±


    ¡°Other than coffee, I mean?¡± She quickly dismissed.


    Felix went silent and pressed his thumb against his chin as he thought deeply.


    Maria¡¯s expression turned to stale annoyance, ¡°We¡¯re not making any progress¡­ When I heard that I was going to work with the ¡®Child of Stars¡¯. I felt a little excited, but now¡­¡±


    He pouted, ¡°Well excuse me for disappointing you. I¡¯m trying, okay? Also don¡¯t call me that.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s just¡­ I wanted to see someone who was irreplaceable.¡± She looked to the side, staring distantly.


    With an eyebrow raised, he asked, ¡°¡­Define irreplaceable?¡±


    ¡°You and I¡­ err, well, how do I put this¡­Someone at the top, I guess.¡±


    ¡°At the top, huh? I¡¯m not even in the top ten yet.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of, chief mentioned that you wanted to be the rank one. Why¡¯s that?¡±


    He grinned and replied, ¡°It¡¯s only natural for the strongest to want to be number one, right?¡±


    ¡°¡­ In our line of work, where we risk our lives on a regular basis? I don¡¯t think that¡¯s it. Come on, tell me the real reason.¡±


    Felix scratched his cheek and answered, ¡°Tell you what, if we make it out of this alive, I¡¯ll give you the answer.¡±


    ¡°I guess I could wait a couple hours¡­ but thinking that the Black Cat of Ruin becoming ranked anything other than thirteenth would feel out of place.¡± Maria tilted her head with a playful smirk.


    ¡°Again, that¡¯s not my official codename.¡±


    ¡°Thirteenth ranked in the leaderboard of the alliance of the twelve organizations¡­¡± She spoke slowly, as if she was confirming it to herself. ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, you were put into the top twenty, not because of your proficiency, but because of your potential.¡±


    ¡°How do you know that?¡±


    ¡°Chief did say you¡¯ve only dealt with simulation battles so far. The more merits you raked in, the higher your rank, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, what about it?¡±


    ¡°It probably makes the people who accomplished so much very angry that you¡¯re in such a privileged position.¡±


    Felix paused for a moment and placed his face on his palm, ¡°Regardless, I don¡¯t think me being the thirteenth strongest person in the world is so far-fetched.¡± He shrugged and sarcastically boasted.


    ¡°Maybe if you¡¯ve only lived in the twelve agencies¡¯ small world. The world is a big place, full of monsters with machines in their veins, and exoskeletons on their bodies, and other tools made to kill. There¡¯re dangerous people out there.¡±


    ¡°You mean like the Jackal?¡±


    Maria lowered her head and spoke with a frigid chuckle, ¡°Mhm, I guess but¡­ what makes you think that a terrorist is the most dangerous person out there?¡±


    A cold chill crawled down his back as she uttered those words.


    Nervously, Felix muttered out word by word, ¡°He¡¯s probably not¡­ But he should definitely be taken care of soon.¡±


    ¡°Mhm, he really should.¡± She showed a poppy smile before glancing to the side with a satisfied expression.


    There was suddenly a suffocating tension in the air.


    I only noticed this now, but her eyes are almost pitch-black. Unnaturally so. They clearly shined, but they were glassy. Like the way they reflected light was artificial. The darkness within them were like long stretches of abyss that did not appear to end.


    The attendant returned with both drinks in a tray, ¡°Mister Aster, Miss Readman, your drinks.¡±


    ¡°Thanks!¡±


    ¡°Th-thank you¡­¡±


    After placing the drinks on their table, the flight attendant left as soon as she came, and a feeling of discomfort lingered in the air.


    ¡°Sorry, I just let my thoughts slip out, forget I said that!¡± She recklessly tried to make the unpleasant atmosphere fade with an awkward smile. ¡°Too much spaghetti spilled.¡±


    A persistent silence lingered between the two for the rest of the trip. Maria returned to staring out the window, Felix, no longer knowing how to pursue the conversation, finished his coffee and resumed looking over his equipment.


    Irreplaceable, huh?


    After looking through the documents one last time, Felix leaned against his chair, and closed his eyes, waiting for the feeling of unease to fade.


    ~

 Mismatched Eyes part 4

    The plane descended from the air, and the two arrived at their destination.


    ¡°Felix?¡± Maria called out. The agent slowly opened his eyes, barely rested, ¡°We¡¯re here. Are you ready?¡± She asked.


    He glanced out the window and saw the darkness of the night, ¡°Yeah¡­ I¡¯m ready.¡± He clutched his four-leaf clover under his shirt.


    The two descended on an area thick with trees, just outside the city.


    Maria stretched out her arms as she got down, dressed in a black cat suit, adorned with an array of belts and straps that carried her limited equipment.


    Felix set his iron-soled boots on the ground and took a deep inhale. The air was thick and hazy, and explosions could barely be heard from the distance.


    Nearly his entire body had been covered in a thick black trench coat that was left open in the middle, on his collar was a strip of metal with both points shaped like arrows.


    The faint blue light from his left eye stood out in the evening darkness.


    The whereabouts of their targets were supposedly unknown. However, it did not take long for them to spot it.


    Maria pulled out a grappling hook and swung around to the top of one of the buildings. Felix then followed, climbing through the windows and crevices.


    Above them flew a Chinese dragon kite pulled by a drone. The dusk sky was filled with excitement and color, as the loud sound of bangs, clangs and crackles could clearly be caught in every direction.


    ¡°Is this why you were staring out the window, enjoying the festival¡¯s fireworks?¡± He asked as the flurry of lights reflected in his eyes.


    ¡°Well¡­ that¡­¡± She responded vaguely as she stared at the festival from an unknown rooftop as the wind blew against her hair.


    In the center of the excitement stood a wide, twenty-story office building. At its front was a tall metal gate with only one entrance. Though the town had buildings, none came close to as tall or as gaudy as the massive one in the center. It was a clear indication of where they were headed.


    ¡°Now why would a skyscraper need a guarded gate?¡± She asked.


    He glanced over to her and replied, ¡°Unless they have something to hide.¡±


    The two smirked at each other before jumping off and moving on ahead.


    On the streets, Maria gazed with cold, narrow eyes as the surrounding streets had logos and symbols of the Golden Lion Agency and other organizations from the association. All of them vandalized and covered with rubbish.


    Rows of food stalls lined the streets as the two walked through the crowds, only to stop at a particularly small stall with a red bird standing on two intersecting arrows shaped like an ¡®x¡¯.


    Felix knocked on the counter, ¡°Excuse me.¡±


    The man inside the stall glanced at the two agents, hanging on the walls were festive masks and other knick-knacks, ¡°Anything you like, anything you see, all only a hundred.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a robin, right? We¡¯re from the agency.¡± Felix explained.


    ¡°We need the word, word bird.¡± Maria added.


    The man turned around and with a grumpy tone replied, ¡°There¡¯re a lot of agencies.¡±


    Felix pulled out from his pocket a small golden pin with a lion and symbols engraved. ¡°Felix Aster, and this is Venom Vanguard.¡±


    ¡°I told you to use V.V.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ V.V.¡±


    ¡°Golden Lion, huh? I take it you two wanna get in that big building over there?¡± The man responded as he pointed with his chin.


    ¡°How¡¯d you know?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Another Elite Agent came by earlier, lookin¡¯ for a way in, same as you. Had me scout the area. Left a while ago after I told ¡®em there was no other way in.¡±


    ¡°From which organization?¡±


    ¡°Confidential, but not from the Golden Lion. From the looks¡¯a things, I assume you¡¯re on the same mission. Tough luck, the place is teeming with guards. Can¡¯t even see it from above. They shoot down my surveillance drones whenever they get too close.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d think the mafia would be more reclusive.¡± Maria expressed her disbelief as she looked at the building.


    ¡°It got renovated just a month ago. According to sources, it was funded by some corrupt politician who wanted to line his pockets, so it got larger at terrifying speeds with cheaper material.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the info.¡±


    ¡°Before you go, care for a mask? Only a hundred.¡±


    ¡°No thank you.¡±


    ¡°Then, how about taking these with you? On the house.¡± He said as he reached out to give him a pair of sunglasses.


    ¡°What? Why?¡±


    ¡°Might want to hide those eyes of yours, Black Cat. They stand out like a sore thumb.¡±


    ¡°You know who I am?¡±


    ¡°Black hair, glowing blue eye. Wasn¡¯t too sure at first, but once you showed me your badge, well, I didn¡¯t need an introduction. Word goes around in the Robin Network. Anyways, better to be safe than sorry.¡± He reached it out to him.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± Felix answered as he took it.


    ¡°Got anything for me?¡± Maria perked up excitedly.


    ¡°All out of freebies, I¡¯m afraid.¡± The robin shrugged.


    Felix put on the sunglasses and walked away, and Maria followed suit after waving goodbye at the old merchant. As the two walked further away from the main road, the festival¡¯s excitement weakened down to a hum, yet the pop of the occasional firework echoed.


    The two circled the area and found that every nook and cranny was littered with guards. With every step they took behind the wall, a guard would be able to see them from within. Back and forth they searched for a way in before meeting back at the front gate.


    ¡°The security in this place is ridiculous¡­so, how are we supposed to do this?¡± Felix muttered.


    ¡°We go in, you protect me, I get what we need, we get out. Easy peasy.¡± Maria nonchalantly explained as she brushed her hair to the side.


    ¡°Mhm.¡±


    From the looks of things, I wish it would be that ¡®easy peasy¡¯. Sorry, chief, but I don¡¯t think we¡¯ll be able to keep a low profile.


    Maria raised her finger with a bright smile.


    ¡°I have an idea. Saw this in a movie once.¡± She said before picking up a stone and throwing it at the edge of the outer gate.


    A movie? Did you just say a movie? Really? Why do you think that would work?


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± Felix couldn¡¯t prevent himself from shouting under his breath.


    ¡°A great, many things.¡± She smugly whispered.


    ¡°Did you hear that?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go check it out.¡±


    The voices of the guards could be heard from outside of the wall.


    WHY DID THAT WORK?!


    ¡°Wait here.¡± Maria gestured for him to stay put.


    ¡°V.V., wait, what are you¡ª?!¡± He reached out to grab her,


    But when the gates opened, he begrudgingly resigned.


    Both of the agents continued to stay hidden in wait for the two guards to leave the camera¡¯s field of vision, Maria walked out and revealed herself while Felix kept to the shadows.


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ¡°Hey, you. What are you doing here?¡± One of the guards called out, pointing his rifle at Maria.


    ¡°I was just curious why there was such a large building in such a small town.¡± She replied, feigning an innocent smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    Another guard walked by to them, tipping his hat, ¡°Now, now. Don¡¯t be so hard on the girl, there¡¯s no harm in sparing a minute to explain to her about the greatness of our leader. You see, it¡¯s because¡ª¡±


    As the guard spoke to Maria, Felix¡¯s fingers twitched for a moment, as the corner of his eyes followed a colorful blaze soaring upwards into the sky. It rose higher and higher, then finally ¡ª BANG.


    The sky was painted with a flowery red firework as both of the guards fell to concrete.


    ¡°But¡­ why?¡± The guard frailly asked with his last breath as Maria¡¯s smile was the last thing he saw.


    The two men fell to the ground as Felix approached Maria.


    ¡°Why were they speaking English?¡± He asked with his palm covering his mouth.


    ¡°Why did the robin?¡± She retorted


    ¡°He¡¯s an informant.¡±


    ¡°This guy¡¯s a sentry.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not how this works.¡±


    ¡°And yet that¡¯s how it was.¡± She shot back with lowered eyebrows.


    ¡°I¡­ point taken. So, what now?¡± I wish I could reply, but I couldn¡¯t find myself an answer, so my only option was to concede.


    ¡°Calm your nerves. We¡¯re going through the main entrance.¡±


    Maria giggled while Felix gulped. As she uttered those words, his heart began to race. The thought of getting killed started to cloud his vision, but it wouldn¡¯t take long for the rest of the guards to notice them being gone for too long.


    The gate reopened to let the guards back in, and the two agents entered. Inside appeared to be a wide, half-finished construction site circling the building.


    A cold-sweat dripped down his face as he scanned every guard from behind his sunglasses, his ears filled with the cracking of the fireworks, forcing him to imagine the gunfire.


    He glanced towards Maria, but he saw from the corner of his eye that her expression remained calm, no, she wore an undaunted smirk as she continued forward.


    Unpleasant thoughts intruded further into his head.


    The bright lights caused him to blink rapidly. The sound of fireworks felt like explosives drawing close. With each passing step, the harder it became to breathe. It was impossible to make his movements look natural with the trench coat underneath the guard¡¯s uniform.


    Did the discomfort come from the hot and humid air, or was it the guard¡¯s uniform worn over his gear, with several layers of fabric suffocating him and stifling his movements?


    The closer they got, the tighter it felt.


    There was less than ten meters left towards the entrance, there was a security camera mounted on the wall, watching their every step. Ahead of them was a glass door. The first hurdle was already halfway cleared, and yet¡­


    ¡°You there!¡± A guard shouted, cutting through Felix¡¯s cluttered thoughts and bringing him back down to earth. As he approached the two agents, he squinted at them, scrutinizing their appearance and uniforms.


    ¡°Y-yes?¡± Maria replied.


    ¡°You both¡­¡± He then looked over to Felix, who tensed up in response.


    Felix¡¯s eyes darted to the other guards patrolling the construction site. The attention was now on them.


    He tried to keep his breathing steady. But as the guard looked him in the eyes, he saw the blue glow hiding behind the sunglasses.


    A bead of sweat rolled across his cheek as his heart pounded. His hands trembled beneath the stolen uniform, curling it into a fist that crackled with a blue electricity.


    ¡°Who¡ª?¡± Before the guard could even ask who they were, Maria¡¯s knife was already drawn. In one swift slice, she slit the guard¡¯s throat wide open. Blood sprayed, staining their stolen uniforms and snapping Felix out of his daze.


    Before the dying guard could drop to the ground, Felix immediately grabbed the pistol hanging from his belt.


    He lined up his shot, his aim perfectly centered at one of the many guards. But the guard looked at him with panic and fright.


    He froze for a moment, unable to pull the trigger.


    But the hesitation immediately subsided as the guard reacted to his pause, shooting him on the shoulder.


    ¡°Grhk!¡±


    ¡°Felix?!¡± Maria glanced at him worriedly, only to avoid a bullet coming her way.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine!¡± He yanked out the shell lodged in his black coat, and began emptying the pistol on the surrounding guards.


    Guards fell down one after the other. There was no room mercy. Here, it was kill or be killed.


    Maria immediately understood. She then crouched down, her arms slipped behind her stolen uniform. She pulled out several knives clasped between her fingers and sent them in a dozen different directions.


    Above them, a firework lit up the sky with iridescent red particles.


    The klaxons rang loud. The glass door locked, and the industrial shutter of the rolling grille lowered. The entrance had been sealed off.


    Over a dozen sentries cornered them on the ground, guns were pulled from every side, aimed at the two intruders heads. Dozens of gunshots flashed from every direction, turning into a deafening blur. But the two agents pushed through, avoiding the gunfire as much as they could while mowing down the men that stood in their way.


    A stray bullet struck the pistol out of Felix¡¯s hand, forcing him to draw out his own. His hand trembled from the shock.


    Sparks flew in the frenzy as Felix whipped out his cobalt gun. He deflected some of the oncoming projectiles flying his way, all while he circled around Maria. His mission was to protect her. He did not forget that.


    ¡°Back up, we need back up at the front gate!¡± One of the sentries called out through the radio. ¡°It¡¯s the intruder! We caught the intruder! There¡¯s two of them!¡±


    Maria looked up and yelled, ¡°Get inside before the other guards get here!¡±


    ¡°You have to get in there, first!¡± He suddenly recoiled as a stray bullet struck the sunglasses. It¡¯s shards scraping across his face as it fell to the ground.


    The two agents were caught in the center of attack. Little by little, their stolen uniforms were torn apart. trapped in a monochromatic barrage of bright flashes and black bullets. The only color was the pale yellow from the muzzles, and the blue light radiating from Felix¡¯s eyes.


    A stray shot suddenly grazed at her cheek, which she quickly clutched as it bled.


    Noticing this, Felix quickly wrapped himself around her, shielding her from the shower of lead.


    Maria¡¯s eyes widened as she watched the bullets bounce off his black coat. She instantly realized from his pained expression that, though it was bullet-resistant, the impact still took a toll on him.


    She scowled, grabbing his arm before tossing him towards the entrance, ¡°Get your ass in there!¡±


    The beads of sweat that filled Felix¡¯s face were swept off by the wind as he was thrown across the air. As soon as he got his balance, he then instinctively hopped on the heads of the guards who stood in front of him.


    As he got close, he fired repeatedly at the glass-door before crashing through it, bracing his face as he slid through the scattered shards and tumbled through as the rolling grille was coming down on him.


    His body spun through the concrete and into the tiled floor, before slamming to a halt against a decorative fountain, causing it to turn on.


    Another wave of sharp knives soared across the area, which forced sentries to duck, and provided Maria a path to run through. As she raced to the entrance, one of the half-dead guards on the ground caught her by the leg, causing her to stumble.


    As the fountain¡¯s water splashed against his face, Felix¡¯s mismatched eyes shot open.


    Inside, his limited light source shrank as the shutter descended. He quickly rushed back towards the rolling grille with his face pressed against.


    ¡°V.V.!¡± Felix shouted, his face pressed against the cold tile floor.


    He watched with his blue eye as she fought just to get back up. Slicing through with her knife. But just as she was back on her feet, one of them struck her back down with the back of his gun.


    A pack of guards swarmed around, ready to fire.


    She persevered, slicing through each enemy, injuring most and dispatching a handful. But every bullet that struck her took its toll. Her movements quickly grew dull and stiff, each slash slower than the last.


    ¡°Maria!¡± Felix called out and pushed the iron-bars back up, only for one of the guards to take notice and fire at him.


    Though the bullet landed on the ground inches shy away from his hand, it was enough to make him recoil instinctively, causing the metal wall to once again descend.


    Maria noticed this and retaliated, sliding in and between the many guards, in one swift slice, sliced the man who shot at Felix, splitting him in half.


    Though the rain of gunfire drowned out any other noise, the thin sound of squelching flesh and splattering blood caused them all to cease fire for just a brief moment, petrified by the sight of a man¡¯s top half sliding down to the ground.


    Despite all of the sentries having a clear, point-blank shot directly at her head, they were all hesitant to pull the trigger. Their faces filled with terror after witnessing what she had just done.


    Fireworks lit up the night sky, outlining her blood-stained face in its radiant colors. Yellow, blue, red and orange all flashed behind her as she shot him a smile.


    As the guards opened fire, the industrial shutter closed shut. A wall of metal was now blocking his view and kept him in darkness. Only dim green lamps lit up his view.


    Unable to see the outside, the black-haired agent got up with wide eyes, ¡°No¡­¡± He whimpered.


    Felix turned around and saw the cascading interior above the fountain. Shafts of light entering through the empty spaces of what looked like a shopping mall.


    Agitated and alone, he leaned against the wall next to him. His gradually slid against its surface as the adrenaline began waning. As his body settled into a sitting position, a deep, heavy gasp escaped his lips, and he began to take in deep breaths.


    The security camera in the center of the ceiling stared intently at him.


    With a pained grunt, he picked out a shards of glass lodged in his body. The uniform that he stole were now in tatters and covered in holes.


    Felix then picked out a lead bullet out of his shoulders, with an irritated look, he flicked it towards the camera.


    But as the security camera cracked, a loud boom followed. The shock waves of the explosion could be felt inside the building.


    ¡°No.¡± He got back up and ran towards the metal gate, slamming his fist against it.


    He repeatedly struck the wall, but as it started to ache, he stopped. In the silence, he realized that the symphony of gunfire had ended, and that the only sound he could hear was the uneven splatter of the fountain.


    With his teeth grit and his fist tightened, Felix smashed his fist against the iron wall, a loud metal bang resounded, and blue particles scattered from his fist and lit up the darkness for a brief few seconds.


    The thick metal wall was left with a fist-shaped dent. He took a step back, clutching his throbbing fist.


    ¡°¡­Maria¡­¡± His eyes furrowed with frustration, he steeled his resolve to continue the mission and began to walk.


    But as he started to walk away, he heard another explosion blast against the gate.


    Little, unsettling rumbles ran through the entrance, quivering above his head and beneath his feet.


    Felix looked back and saw a massive dent against the iron-wall. It was immediately followed by another explosion, which dented the gate even more.


    He took a step back, and a drop of sweat dripped through his face as he pulled out a gun.


    But it was followed up by one final explosion.


    In an iridescent burst of ephemeral particles, the gate broke open.


    From behind the golden firework stood a black-haired woman, with a sweet, cheerful smile on her face. Her face was in pristine condition, the blood gone.


    He lowered his ornate gun, and his expression filled to the brim with disbelief. ¡°Maria?¡±


    She crawled through the hole made in the metal gate, ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°How¡­ how did you survive?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say a rogue firework came to my rescue. Or a couple of them at least.¡± She beamed cheerfully.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s how fireworks¡­ sigh, I see. I¡¯m glad you¡¯re alright.¡± Felix conceded his thought and smiled awkwardly, still in disbelief. ¡°I thought I was gonna have to do this alone.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I won¡¯t leave you, partner.¡± Maria smirked.


    He scratched his cheek as a wave of relief washed over him, ¡°Yeah¡­ I¡¯m glad. Then let¡¯s go, partner.¡±


    She nodded her head in compliance.


    The two operatives made their way into the building alive. Behind them, the camera buzzed silently, its fractured lens still fixed on their figures.


    Inside a dimly lit surveillance room, a man in a top hat stood over three corpses.


    His face illuminated by the flicker of broken screens, watching them. He held up a shattered data drive against the screen, and grinned.


    ~

 Birth of a Phantom part 1

    Chapter 2


    Birth of a Phantom


    While the two agents caught their breath, the lights inside suddenly flashed open with a blinding white light and revealed the expansive interior. White walls with a green tint, with floors were divided into sections, resembling a mix of a shopping mall and something akin to an office area. Only certain sections were lit up, as it looked to be still under construction.


    The splashing water from the fountain sounded half-full.


    As Felix glanced around the half-lit area, a holographic interface flicked out from Maria¡¯s watch, a thin blue screen that displayed a map of the building¡¯s interior.


    ¡°Uh-oh¡­¡± She blurted out.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°This doesn¡¯t look like the map they gave us.¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyes widened slightly as he remembered the robin¡¯s words, ¡°That means they renovated the entire building. We need a plan.¡±


    ¡°They patched the map mid-game, but the quest stays the same.¡± She smugly shrugged and spoke in a wistful tone.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. It¡¯ll be more fun this way.¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyes widened as he heard a flurry of coming from the hall, moving toward their direction. He pulled out his cobalt blue gun, ready for another battle, but Maria shoved him to the wall.


    ¡°What are you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Shhh¡­ you¡¯re still in uniform.¡± She whispered with a finger against her mouth.


    ¡°Ah¡­ right.¡± He nodded.


    A bead of sweat slid across his face as the sound of footsteps got closer. But as soon as they got right around the hall¡ª


    ¡°Gahk!¡± Felix grunted as Maria burrowed her fist into his gut.


    When the guards made it to their location, Felix fell down to his knees and weakly whimpered, ¡°Bollocks¡­¡±


    Cornered at the entrance of an unfamiliar location, both of them were surrounded by several armed men.


    Maria saluted as one of the armed men approached. His uniform appeared to be slightly different from the rest, appearing to be head of the guards.


    The head guard raised an eyebrow, ¡°Hm? You both. What are you doing? What was all that noise outside?¡±


    ¡°Sir, a rogue firework that made its way through the walls during the shootout. This one¡¯s badly injured, he got shot by a stray bullet.¡± She answered with a lowered gaze, avoiding eye contact and hoping they would not be caught a second time.


    He squinted his eyes and inspected the two intruders closely, ¡°Have I seen you both before?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re new recruits, sir.¡± She replied quickly.


    Maria then squealed as Felix vengefully pinched her shoulder tight, using it as support to get back on his feet, ¡°The intruders have made it inside the premises, sir, we have to hurry.¡± He grumbled.


    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    The head guard sighed, ¡°Count yourselves lucky he didn¡¯t kill you. Take him to the infirmary. Everyone, keep your guard up! We¡¯ll get that son of a bitch.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± The accompanying guards shouted.


    As Maria carried Felix on her shoulder, one of the guards approached with a faint smile and asked, ¡°Do you need any help?¡±


    Maria lowered the hat of her uniform and replied, ¡°We¡¯re good. I just have to bring him to the second floor, right?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s on the third floor, you both should take the elevator.¡±


    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll just take him to the infirmary myself.¡±


    Both of them were escorted by one of the guards to the elevator. And as they walked, one of the guards muttered to the head guard.


    ¡°Sir, those two...¡± The guard whispered in Chinese, staring at the two agent¡¯s torn up uniforms.


    ¡°These English speakers are dangerous. They managed to get inside, despite our efforts to keep the first guy from getting out. So play along and keep your distance.¡± The head guard responded in Chinese as they continued to walk along.


    Felix, who was several steps ahead, did not ignore their conversation.


    Maria boarded the elevator with Felix still on her shoulder, but as she turned around to salute, the guard accompanying them had a wide grin on his face as he pulled the pin out of a grenade.


    ¡°Here¡¯s a gift, new recruits.¡± The guard sneered and tossed it in before the metal doors shut.


    Maria¡¯s face curled into shock as the explosive flew towards them. Felix¡¯s silhouette appeared before her and kicked it back.


    ¡°Venom!¡± He yelled, and the two agents took to the sides of the elevator.


    The guard¡¯s grin faded as the grenade struck his forehead and dropped to the ground, while the rest of the men ran away in panic. Fire and shrapnel slipped past the open doors half a second before the elevator shut tight.


    As they began to ascend, Felix quickly shot the camera in the top corner before muttering, ¡°We have to get out of here.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°There should be about two hundred guards in this building, there¡¯s probably a dozen expecting us on the next floor.¡±


    ¡°Sigh, what¡¯s with you? Aren¡¯t you glad we¡¯re alright?¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m glad, it¡¯s just that I¡¯d like to continue being alright¡­¡± He then let out a sharp exhale as he suddenly stumbled to the floor on his knees, clutching his right arm.


    Maria sat next to Felix and noticed a dark, deep red stain on the light-brown uniform he wore, ¡°Your arm¡­Was this from earlier?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just a graze¡­¡± He blurted as he pulled out a small bottle full of pills marked with a medical cross from his pocket.


    ¡°Painkillers aren¡¯t gonna fix the problem at hand... or, at arm?¡± She giggled slightly at her own pun.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the problem.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­ what is the problem?¡± She asked as a drop of sweat dripped down her worried face.


    Felix sucked in air between his clenched teeth and answered, ¡°Why were they speaking English?!¡±


    ¡°Why are you still hung up on that?!¡±


    ¡°They were talking to each other in Chinese while they spoke to us in English¡­ they knew we were intruders from the start¡­¡± He sighed, wiping his face with a pained grunt.


    ¡°Right.¡± She let out a low sigh, ¡°Well, this¡¯ll heal soon anyway, but we should probably head to the infirmary.¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯m fine, I¡¯m more curious how you were unscathed earlier¡­¡±


    ¡°Just like you, remember? Enhanced abilities and all that, not to mention I¡¯m¡ª¡± For a moment, her eyes widened as she looked at him.


    ¡°And you¡¯re¡­?¡±


    She placed her hand on her hip, ¡°I¡¯m an Elite Agent, too.¡±


    With a soft laugh, Felix scratched his cheek, ¡°Ah¡­ That¡¯s clear now, sorry for doubting you.¡±


    ¡°Huh, that¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve heard you laugh a non-asshole-ish laugh.¡±


    ¡°Is that right, well if we make it through this, then you might be able to hear it again someday.¡± He stood up, still clutching his arm and asked, ¡°So, we head to the central database now?¡±


    ¡°Not quite¡­First, we take down the surveillance room, then, we head to their data center, but...¡±


    ¡°But?¡±


    ¡°But the map they gave us is completely outdated. This place looks like an entirely different building.¡± Maria shook her head in dismay as the holographic display popped out.


    ¡°Then I guess we¡¯re on our own. Take out your grappling hook.¡±


    ¡°Hm, why?¡±


    Felix climbed up the side of the elevator and broke open the hatch above it. He reached out his hand toward Maria, and who took it. ¡°Because it¡¯s time to get moving.¡±


    The elevator stopped on the third floor. As soon as its metal doors opened, heavy clicks could be heard just before a hail of bullets began to tear its interior apart.


    Wisps of dark smoke emanated from the decimated elevator, and the thick scent of the gunpowder filled the air.


    With rifles clutched tightly by their side, they all got into formation and cautiously entered the damaged structure. Yet their coordinated efforts were wasted, as they looked up and found that their targets had already long left.


    ~

 Birth of a Phantom part 2

    Pale white curtains fluttered gently inside a small and dim room, where Felix followed Maria into. Inside was a bed, a desk, cabinet, and a locker.


    ¡°A clinic?¡± He glanced at the framed map hanging on the wall, and placed his finger on the red dot drawn on it, ¡°You are here¡­Now if only it told us where the data center was.¡±


    ¡°Since we don¡¯t know where that is yet, I thought we should take a little detour.¡± Maria replied as she rummaged through the metal cabinet at the corner of the room.


    Felix took off his coat and whipped it across the air, dislodging several metallic shards stuck to the bullet-resistant fabric.


    ¡°And why are we here? We¡¯re wasting time. It¡¯s possible that the other intruder has made it into the building.¡± He said in a stiffly before putting his black coat back on.


    ¡°Treating you, my dear patient.¡± She replied brightly as she wore a white lab coat and picked up a syringe from desk.


    ¡°P-put that down.¡± He whimpered out with a clear level of discomfort.


    A wry grin formed on her lips. ¡°Hmmm? What¡¯s wrong, scared of needles?¡±


    Felix averted his gaze, ¡°N-no. They just¡­ we don¡¯t have the time for this¡­¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± She then shoved him towards the bed and slowly brought the needle closer to him.


    As he tripped onto the bed, he covered his face in panic. The sight of the needle raised the drumbeat of his heart.


    Memories forced their way into the forefront of his thoughts. Screams and searing flames. A broken cage.


    Echoes of memories vividly repeated themselves, ¡°You took the wrong vial!¡±


    The sight of a younger Professor Tetsuya marching towards him through a sea of flames, holding a needle full of prismatic fluid.


    All these sensations came crashing down in less than a few seconds.


    Felix gulped. His mismatched eyes darted away as he conceded, ¡°Alright, fine. They make me uncomfortable, alright?¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ I¡¯ll put the needle down.¡± Her expression changed to a more somber one as she watched his panic attack.


    ¡°However, the ill must be treated!¡± She boldly exclaimed, holding back a chuckle.


    His expression slowly got better, giving a resigned smile and as he scratched his cheek. ¡°Alright, Doctor Marie. I¡¯ll put my trust in you.¡±


    She took a moment to collect herself from his reply and her expression softened, ¡°You sure changed your tone quick.¡±


    ¡°I guess I¡¯m just glad the two of us aren¡¯t dead¡­¡± He said in a lax, relieved voice.


    ¡°Let¡¯s try to keep it that way¡­ It¡¯ll heal soon, but just to be sure, let¡¯s dab some antiseptic on your wounds¡­¡± Her energetic voice calmed down as she dabbed antiseptic on him.


    ¡°Ahk¡­ that stings... Doctor Marie, do you think it¡¯ll leave a scar?¡± With a click of his tongue, his eyes closed, unaware of the glowing blue haze that began to form around his wound.


    Slowly, the wound began to close itself, and left only a small, patchy red mark. Bewildered by the light, Maria¡¯s eyes widen as she muttered with a low voice; ¡°So... we really are alike.¡±


    ¡°Hm?¡± He opened his eyes as the haze faded.


    ¡°All patched up. Don¡¯t worry about it, nothing leaves a scar on us.¡±


    She smiled and finished wrapping the bandages over his wound. Her gentle expression ended the conversation without any further resistance.


    A metallic click echoed in the clinic as the holographic map once again projected from Maria¡¯s watch.


    As she scoured the map, she let out a sigh, ¡°There¡¯s a few guards on the floor below us. Put the uniform back on, we should ask for directions.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that would work.¡± He said as he looked at the torn up uniform.


    She gave him an annoyed glance before immediately changing to an irritated grin, ¡°Maybe we should just beat the information out of someone.¡± Maria pulled out a knife from behind and walked out of the room.


    Before she could step out of the room, Felix grabbed her by the wrist and pulled out his cobalt gun, firing it at the light bulb. The silent, concentric waves it shot out caused it crackle and malfunction.


    ¡°What are you doing¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Shh¡­¡± He covered her mouth, pulling her into the metal cabinet with him.


    An old, gruff voice could be heard walking towards their direction, ¡°Yes, sir, I¡¯m headed my way there.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir, I¡¯m here¡­ there appears to be a mess.¡± An old guard replied through his radio as he entered the clinic. He tried to flip the switch on the light, only to see the light bulb was broken.


    ¡°Huh? It¡¯s broken?¡± The old guard cautiously stepped into the room, looking for the intruders.


    Jammed inside the cramped, metal supply cabinet, Felix held his gun close to his chest as he whispered, ¡°Just one¡­¡±


    But Maria grabbed his gun, nodding in disagreement.


    ¡°Got any more ideas from your movie?¡±


    The footsteps got closer.


    ¡°Maybe¡­¡± she whispered back as she pushed his gun back down, ¡°We¡¯re still in uniform, aren¡¯t we? We need directions. Close your eyes for a sec and trust me.¡±


    As Felix closed his eyes, he grumbled as he felt his body suddenly getting wrapped in rope. Maria drew in breath and yelled out; ¡°Help, help us!¡±


    You might be reading a pirated copy. Look for the official release to support the author.


    His eyes shot open in a panic, and also yelled, ¡°H-help!¡±


    ¡°Sir, I think I found something. I¡¯ll call back in a moment.¡± The old guard spoke through the radio in his hand, slowly approaching the supply cabinet.


    As he opened it, the two agents fell straight to the floor, both tangled in wires.


    ¡°Huh, what the?¡± The old guard scratched his head.


    ¡°H-help¡­¡±


    A sweat dripped down Felix¡¯s face as the old guard grumpily stared down at them.


    ¡°¡­ What happened here?¡± The old man scratched his head.


    Maria struggled as she spoke in a soft and sultry voice, trying to warm up to the guard, ¡°S-sir, the intruder got in and trapped us in here!¡±


    ¡°What were you both even still doing here? Didn¡¯t either of you hear the alarms?¡± The guard expressed in an irritated curiosity as he began to untangle the wires.


    ¡°I was um¡­ he was wounded, and I was treating him, when suddenly¡­¡± She quickly tried to come up with a story as she squirmed, trying to keep her disguise hidden from the guard¡¯s sight.


    The old guard raised his eyebrow for a moment.


    ¡°Cough. Fine¡­ fine, I get it.¡± The old guard grumbled in an understanding tone. ¡°I don¡¯t mind keeping this a secret but¡­ It¡¯s common knowledge not to do those things during work hours, you know.¡±


    A vein pulsed in the temple of Felix¡¯s head.


    ¡°D-do those things?¡± She asked.


    ¡°You youngsters today can¡¯t hold it in, can you?¡± He said as he pulled out a knife.


    With a sudden crackle, a voice came out of the old man¡¯s radio, ¡°Did you find the intruder?¡±


    The old guard began cutting the two of them out of the rope.


    ¡°No, sir. Just a couple of brats tied up in the cabinet¡­ Yeah, I know, it¡¯s the second time it happened. Same place, too. Kinky? Yeah, I agree.¡±


    ¡°Kinky? Sir, I think you misunderstand. H-he was shot.¡±


    ¡°Sure, that makes sense... still.¡± He answered disingenuously. ¡°There, you¡¯re free now.¡±


    Felix coughed as he got up on his knees, ¡°Do you know where the intruder escaped to, sir?¡±


    ¡°Not sure, but I believe that he¡¯s headed to the server room. But everyone all says that it¡¯s safe there and no one can open the database anyway. Bunch of stuck-ups won¡¯t listen to me.¡±


    ¡°Which is¡­ where?¡± Maria added as she also got up.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you know anything? It¡¯s in the top floor.¡±


    ¡°On the left wing or the right wing?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s with all these questions? Why are you speaking in Engli¡ª?¡± Before he could even turn around to face them, an array of transparent concentric rings had struck him from behind.


    Felix lowered his cobalt gun and caught him before he could fall to the floor.


    ¡°That was¡­ convenient.¡± She remarked.


    As he placed the old guard on the bed, Maria asked, ¡°What the fuck is up with your gun?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s an energy gun. It was made so that I don¡¯t accidentally kill anyone¡­ again.¡±


    ¡°So then, the guards we stole our uniforms from¡­¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t dead.¡±


    ¡°Huh¡­¡±


    ¡°My mentor taught me not to kill. Not if it¡¯s not necessary. But I still carry a regular pistol, just in case.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± She nodded.


    There was a sudden transmission, ¡° Can you hear me, is anyone there?¡±


    Felix picked the transceiver on the ground, and pinched his nose as he answered, ¡°S-sir, we were shot. W-we need medical assistance, asap.¡±


    ¡°Medical? U-Understood. Just stay where you are.¡± The voice over the transmission answered.


    ¡°That should buy us a bit of time.¡±


    ¡°Nice acting skills.¡± Maria perked up with a grin.


    ¡°Guess I learned something from you.¡± He smiled back.


    Without wasting another moment, the two agents made their way through the floors of the labyrinthine construction site.


    *


    As they made it to the upper floors, there was a single security door guarded by two men. Felix gestured for Maria to stay put, ¡°Stay here. I¡¯ll handle this.¡±


    He aimed a suppressed pistol at the walls furthest to the two guards, firing off two loud rounds.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Their faces followed the sound.


    As soon as the two turned their heads in the opposite direction, Felix rushed towards them.


    Before they could even react, he took out the first one with a clean punch to the jaw. The second one took notice, frantically lining his weapon at the intruder. But the blue-eyed agent was faster, swiftly separating the guard¡¯s arms, grabbing his head, and pulling it towards his knee.


    In one swift motion, the guard collapsed.


    Breathing a sigh of relief, the agent gently placed their bodies against the wall, one of which was still mumbling incoherently.


    ¡°Huh, you¡¯re fast on your feet.¡± Maria commented, mildly impressed.


    ¡°Thanks. We have to hurry. The guards downstairs probably heard me firing.¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you use your other gun, then? The quiet one?¡±


    ¡°Ion has an effective range of five meters.¡± He explained.


    She took a look at the grumbling guards, ¡°Maybe you should¡¯ve just shot them in the head instead of going through all that effort.¡±


    ¡°No unnecessary killing.¡± He glared at her.


    ¡°Then shall I?¡± She smirked and pulled out her knife.


    ¡°No.¡± He sighed and retrieved an ID from one of the guard¡¯s uniforms. He flashed it onto the door lock, and it scanned for a few seconds.


    As the door clicked open, there was a rush of cold air, much colder compared to the rest of the building.


    ¡°After you.¡± Felix gestured. Maria took a step into the server room.


    It was dark inside, and filled with servers. Rows upon rows of black pillars filled the room like a library. The only light was from the blinking blue and yellow lights behind the glass panes of the tall machines.


    As they took a few steps inside, there was a bright pop and crackle that grabbed their attention. They looked over to the window walls, seeing the colorful particles fading in the night sky, as well as a good view of the city below them.


    Maria looked at the glittering glass panes with a hint of contempt she saw her own reflection.


    ¡°So this is the data center?¡±


    ¡°Looks like it¡­¡± She answered, smashing her fist against the glass, cracking it in two.


    ¡°What was that?¡± He reacted, hearing her shatter one of them.


    ¡°... It¡¯s unconventional to have a database on the top floor.¡± She responded, not answering his question.


    The faint pop of a distant firework took her attention, glancing forward. She walked on ahead opposite the door¡¯s direction.


    In the center of the large room was a single onyx black table with nothing on top of it, ¡°But maybe they just like the view from up here.¡±


    Felix pressed the ID back to the door, shutting the entrance.


    Maria threw away the lab coat and walked and spun the leather chair on the table. She pressed a glowing red button on the table, and a holographic projection popped out in front of her. A keyboard started glowing on top of the glassy table.


    ¡°Stay on guard, I need to work my magic. Unless you wanna take a crack at it.¡± She ordered, putting the drive on the table, a neon red circle forming beneath.


    Felix shrugged and obliged. He took off the torn-up uniform, pulled out his pistol, and kept his attention glued to the door.


    Maria placed her hand on the screen and let out a soft hum. One by one, the system¡¯s encryptions were unlocked. With a smile, a stream of .


    Suddenly, an array of holographic screens suddenly popped out in front of her.


    ¡°I¡¯m in. Now what¡­ could I¡­ be looking for?¡± She hummed in a singsong.


    The dark-haired woman scrolled through dozens of screens. She then stopped as one of the visuals came to her view. One of them, the image of a crown with five silhouettes underneath it.


    Another was a visual of a city was engulfed by what looked like a star.


    ¡°Hmm?¡± She perked up, then gestured for him to come forward, ¡°Come, take a look at this.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ records of the Fallen Sun Catastrophe¡­¡± She played the video, showing golden flames sweeping across the city. Above it was a photograph of the horizon, where it looked like a nuclear fireball formed on the city.


    ¡°¡­ This was the one that happened in China¡­¡± Felix¡¯s voice cracked, muttering under her breath.


    ¡°This must be it then.¡± She collected all of the holographic screens, dragging down towards the drive, where they transformed into strings of letters and numbers.


    As it began copying into the drive, Felix sighed.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± She asked.


    ¡°I remember that day. It was a busy day in the agency¡­¡± Felix shifted his gaze back to the door.


    Maria smirked, ¡°Yeah, it must¡¯ve been pretty ba¡ª¡±


    He suddenly pushed her away from the table, ¡°Get down!¡±


    The hatch hissed open, just enough to let the barrel of a gun get through.


    With a loud bang, a bullet travelled towards the two agents, shredding off some of her hair as she fell to the ground. The window wall cracked open behind them cracked open.


    Felix whipped out his pistol and aimed towards the entrance.


    There was the slow sound clapping coming from the door, and a silhouette spoke, entering the room.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect intruders to be here.¡± A firework lit up the face of a blood-covered man walking in, dressed in a vest and a top hat, ¡° Why don¡¯t the two of you enjoy the festival outside?¡±


    ~

 Birth of a Phantom part 3

    The man before them stood taller than the both of them, dressed in a brown vest, an elegant top hat, and a small bag strapped to his belt. With a wide grin, he asked ¡°Why are you in a boring old server room when there¡¯s a festival outside?¡±


    Felix aimed his pistol at the unknown figure, ¡°Who are you?¡±


    In spite of his reaction, it was clear to the both of them that man in front of them was significantly more dangerous than the guards they faced before.


    ¡°I apologize for my rudeness, please allow me to introduce myself, I am one of the guards here you see.¡± He took off his top hat, revealing his brown hair as he bowed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t lie to us.¡± The blue-eyed agent sharply remarked.


    The blood-covered man put his top hat back on, responding, ¡°Well, I can¡¯t tell you that, but please refer to me as Harbinger. I was employed recently here in order. Pleased to make your¡ª¡± A knife brushed against the side of his head before he could finish speaking.


    ¡°What kind of guard kills his own men?¡± Maria clicked her tongue. Her palm steadily descended back to the onyx table. Her happy-go-lucky demeanor turned cold and frigid.


    Harbinger nervously laughed and continued to feign ignorance, ¡°My, please enlighten me, whatever could you¡ª?¡±


    Before he could finish talking, a gunshot sent him slamming towards the door.


    Felix blew out the wisp of smoke flowing out of pistol, his glowing blue-eye radiating through the darkness, his body silhouetted against the moonlight.


    As he lowered his gun, the table beeped with a high-pitched sound.


    ¡°Looks like our download is complete.¡± Maria perked up, grabbing the drive.


    ¡°Harbinger, he said¡­¡±


    She tilted her head in curiosity, ¡°Oh, how foreboding. What about it?¡±


    ¡°I recognize that name codename¡­ He worked for the agency. Rank twenty-seventh, a veteran who went MIA months¡ª¡±


    Maria pushed Felix to the side, a knife spinning between them.


    As it struck the window wall, a soft cackle followed. The man Felix had just shot got back on his feet, ¡°I see my reputation precedes me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re still alive?¡± Maria looked at the knife stuck to the window. It was the same one she threw at him earlier.


    ¡°You both are from the agency, aren¡¯t you? Have bullet-proof vests stopped being standard issue?¡± Harbinger scoffed, brushing off his brown vest as if nothing happened.


    ¡°He must be the agent that the Robin told us about.¡± Maria pulled out her knife from the cracked window, putting it behind her.


    Felix aimed his gun once more and began firing, only for the man in the top hat to hop away, dodging his every shot.


    ¡°How rude. From what I gather, you and I are on the same mission, so perhaps we could strike up a trade?¡± Harbinger suggested, lifting up his hands to the air.


    Felix reloaded, his mismatched eyes never leaving his target, ¡°And what would that be?¡±


    ¡°If you please give me a copy of the information, all parties will be able to go on their merry way.¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to have a drive on you?¡± Maria asked as she showed him the large metal flash drive.


    ¡°I do¡­ but after dealing with the guards¡­¡± Harbinger replied as he pulled out a broken flash drive from his vest pocket.


    ¡°That sucks. We gathered the data, but only have one drive.¡± Maria put the flash drive in her back pocket.


    ¡°True, but I can¡¯t come back empty-handed.¡±


    Felix raised his eyebrow and stated, ¡°Yeah, how about you get your own and not bother us?¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Harbinger put his hand on his chin, ¡°Would you please be so kind as to tell me your codenames?¡±


    ¡°What for?¡± Maria asked sharply.


    ¡°Codenames let the other party know what they¡¯re dealing with. It¡¯s part of the treaty to let an unwilling party go unharmed.¡± Felix elaborated while Maria readied herself for combat.


    She turned to him and replied, ¡°I¡¯m surprised you know this.¡±


    He glanced over to her, ¡°I¡¯m surprised you don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Please forgive me, but I¡¯m going to need that drive.¡± Harbinger explained as he drew his gun.


    With two daggers in her hands, Maria took her stance, her fangs in full view.


    ¡°Harbinger, engaging.¡±


    ¡°Venom Vanguard¡­¡±  She hooked the table¡¯s leg with her foot, then kicked the table towards Harbinger, ¡°Engaging!¡±


    A glassy onyx wall made it¡¯s way towards Harbinger, but he swiftly jumped over the airborne obstacle with his gun ready. But before he could even plant his feet, she closed the space between them in a single beat.


    The edges of her steel blades clashed against his gun before he could even aim, and he was forced to use it to parry each of her explosive blows.


    As their weapons clashed, her unnatural strength quickly overpowered him, to the point where he found himself struggling to keep her daggers away from his chest.


    Unable to aim, he kicked Maria¡¯s diaphragm, and hopped away to a safe distance.


    ¡°Venom Vanguard¡­ The serpent who kills with a single cut, with blades laced with neurotoxins that could kill an elephant in minutes.¡±


    ¡°Are those the rumors going around?¡± The dark-haired woman hissed at him while rubbing the lower part of her chest.


    ¡°Quite. I have to say, disabling someone¡¯s motor functions is quite a scary gimmick for a little girl.¡±


    Maria got back up and threw another knife towards him, ¡°So you know who I am, yet you¡¯re not backing down?¡±


    Harbinger shifted his body and effortlessly avoided the attack. In response, he raised his gun at her, but before he could fire, a bullet struck him in the chest, which slammed him against one of the pillars.


    ¡°Right¡­ forgot about the other one.¡± He huffed as he got back up, quickly moving away as two more bullets shot at him.


    ¡°And what about you, boy¡­ whoa!¡± Harbinger spoke to the darkness while avoiding the shards of lead aimed at his head, ¡°May I please ask for your code name?¡±


    ¡°¡­Ch-Child of Stars.¡±  Hidden behind the server, Felix accidentally let his first thought slip out of his lips.


    ¡°Child of¡­? That sounds oddly familiar.¡± He responded as the Venom Vanguard leapt at him. The two danced with gun and blade while they attacked each other with words.


    ¡°It¡¯s rather odd for an Elite Agent to prefer fighting in close quarters.¡± He remarked.


    ¡°It¡¯s odd for an Elite Agent to be mouthing off the way you do, and yet here we are!¡±


    Felix continued to attack from the darkness, behind the countless blinking lights of the data servers. But Harbinger simply dodged the bullets coming his way, ¡°My, my, you sure lack presence. If it weren¡¯t for your glowing eye, I¡¯d have taken you for a ghost.¡±


    Though Felix fancied the shadows, his glowing eye betrayed him as its light reflected on the glassy surfaces of the servers, letting Harbinger pinpoint his location.


    He continued to fire at Harbinger from behind one of the servers, supporting from a distance while Maria acted as the vanguard.


    But as the two clashed once more, Harbinger parried her knife, then raised his leg. Maria, who was not gonna fall for the same counter twice, raised her guard and steeled her body. But Harbinger grinned, finally able to push back against her, he aimed his gun and fired.


    Cracks formed in the knife.


    Maria¡¯s hands trembled as she tightened her grip on the knife¡¯s hilt. The impact radiated through her veins as she just barely blocked the bullet with her knife.


    Harbinger then glanced over towards Felix¡¯s reflection and fired his direction, too.


    In a panic, Felix ran behind another server as Harbinger unloaded the rest of his shots, ¡°Does he ever run out of bullets? Wait¡­ does Marie ever run out of knives?¡± Before he could ponder either question, one of Harbinger¡¯s shots struck him in the shoulder.


    Though the projectile did not tear through his black cloak, the impact felt like his bones shattered like glass, ¡°ARGH! Bollocks!¡±


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Felix let out a feral growl and kicked the server with immense force, flinging it towards his enemy.


    Harbinger was startled by his enemy¡¯s inhuman strength, but as it black pillar hurtled through the air, he simply ducked beneath it, barely breaking a sweat.


    It crashed into the other servers, toppling them down like mechanical dominoes.


    ¡°The Child of Stars¡­¡± Harbinger made a curious stare as he dropped his gun and pulled out another one from his thigh.


    But as those questioning words escaped his mouth, another blade sliced through the air and left behind a thin trail of light. The knife grazed his cheek, and a stinging pain started to radiate across his face.


    Blood lust leaked out of Harbinger as he rained down lead in response, angrily firing one round after another in quick succession, breaking apart every server.


    But Maria moved as quickly as he aimed, leaping above one server after the next.


    Felix felt a strain in his arm, the bandage that was wrapped around it began to feel warm. He took a step forward, lifting his arm once more.


    But before he could return to the battle, his body froze as his eyes followed a grenade that came in his way.


    Yet before it could fall, he heard the sound of an unwinding cord, and watched as it was caught in the claw of a grappling hook.


    With the bomb in her grappling hook, Maria improvised a weapon that slithered perfectly to her will.


    The explosive whipped up and down, left and right, leaving no room for Harbinger to go into the offensive. He was cautious of both Maria¡¯s bomb whip, and of Felix, who had resumed shooting from the rear.


    He was left to defend himself and bide his time, waiting as his wounds accumulated. He only needed a few seconds.


    With a grin on his face as the explosive began to beep, he grabbed the cord on Maria¡¯s grappling hook and threw the explosive back at her.


    ¡ª Click.


    Her eyes widened in response, and in a moment that lasted less than a second, the grappling hook made an unnaturally sharp turn towards the floor, ¡°Get down!¡± She yelled.


    The explosive let out a deafening boom, and a cacophony of crumbling followed.


    All three agents were thrown back by the fiery burst.


    Debris rained down above them as the ceiling snapped. Thousands of black glass shards clattered on the ground. The powerful blast left a dark crater on the ground, which quickly collapsed into a large hole.


    The window walls around them had cracked, and let the frigid air slowly seep out with a silent whistle.


    The tremors from above caught the attention of the guards below, narrowing down their search.


    Dizzy and lightheaded, Felix opened his eyes and felt a stream of red liquid flowing out of his forehead, ¡°¡­I hope this counts as minimum damage.¡±


    But as he tried to drag himself up, he found himself unable to move. His arm buried under the rubble of the ceiling. He struggled to lift the debris with only one arm. Memories flashed in his mind of a similar event. A clear memory of his own mangled leg, buried underneath a fragment of a concrete wall.


    He grit his teeth and angrily pushed the rubble away. But his eyes widened as he heard his enemy groaning a few feet away.


    Harbinger slowly got up, pain visibly radiating from his movement. His top hat was on the floor, showing his disheveled brown hair.


    Panic began to set in as he watched Harbinger pull out a magazine and reload his gun.


    Felix used every ounce of strength he could muster. His veins started to glow, and a numbing electricity crackled out of his fingertips, letting him get rid of the rubble.


    But as he did, his face turned pale as he saw his arm, tangled in a web of wires, while a shard of glass from the metal server protruding through his flesh.


    Unable to move, he searched frantically for something he could use, and saw his pistol lying a few feet away from him.


    But while he could barely reach the tip of his gun, Harbinger had already aimed his own at him. Felix closed his eyes, then Harbinger fired ¡ª with a loud bang, a splatter could be heard spilling across the ground.


    He opened his mismatched eyes to see the silhouette standing right in front of him.


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure¡­ you¡¯re the one supposed to be protecting me¡­ Felix¡­¡± Maria muttered softly. Her blood sliding across her smirk.


    ¡°M-Marie¡­¡± Felix cracked out a whimper as her blood dripped over his face.


    As she fell beside him, his ears began to ring.


    Harbinger walked towards the two of them and took the drive from Maria¡¯s back pocket, calmly placing it in his vest.


    Marie?


    Marie, come on¡­ get up.


    You¡¯re okay right? Stop kidding around¡­ Come on¡­


    You¡¯re a little too heavy, you know that?


    Get up¡­ come on, get up. Marie¡­


    The brown-haired man looked at the two with a curious expression, ¡°Felix? Felix Aster? So then¡­ you must be the ¡®Black Cat of Ruin.¡¯¡±


    As he walked towards them, Felix started panting as his body began to boil from within, ¡°I¡¯ll kill you!¡±


    ¡°Oh, please. You¡¯ve been doing a terrible job at that.¡± Harbinger scoffed.


    Felix snapped the broken glass that was protruding from his arm, using it to cut off most of the wires that bound him to the floor. He sliced through his black sleeve, causing his arm to gash open.


    With a vicious growl, his skin and flesh pulled apart just to strike Harbinger¡¯s face.


    Harbinger¡¯s knees buckled. His face ached as a red stream started pouring out of his nose. But he looked back at the young agent and grinned, ¡°Was that supposed to be a punch? Please.¡±


    He struck back, causing Felix to bounce off the ground.


    ¡°No hard feelings, but no loose ends. Please forgive me.¡± Harbinger cocked his gun and slowly pointed at the groveling young man, who was facing down on the ground.


    But as he was about to pull the trigger, Felix leapt forward and kicked his hand upward, causing him to fire toward the ceiling.


    ¡°What the hell?!¡± Taken by surprise, Harbinger clutched his throbbing arm and looked back at him.


    Felix lowered to the floor and stood on all fours, a stance reminiscent of a wounded animal, with a limb rendered useless.


    He shot the disheveled man a feral glare, like a predator focusing on its prey, taking one small step at a time.


    ¡°Is this why you¡¯re called the Black Cat?¡± Harbinger shouted, his voice cracking with rage.


    The blue-eyed agent began bouncing around the room, jumping above one server to another. Left, right, left right, leaving cracks on the black glass, closing the space between them.


    A vein popped in the older man¡¯s forehead as he grew increasingly irritated.


    But when the blue-eyed agent finally lunged at him, Harbinger aimed exactly where he would be, expecting it, and immediately fired straight at his forehead. A blue flare burst from Felix¡¯s face, shooting his body towards one of the black pillars.


    As he crashed, Harbinger lowered his gun and let out an exhausted exhale. He ran his fingers across his disheveled hair, trying to compose himself.


    Blood poured from Felix¡¯s face as he let out a weak cough.


    ¡°Still alive? Time to put this kitty down for good.¡± The brown-haired man pointed his gun one more time. As he pulled the trigger, however, there was nothing but a hollow click. He had run out of bullets.


    Felix¡¯s eyes opened slowly, as if he had just woken up. Disoriented, his vision struggled to focus. A chunk of his cheek had been blown off, leaving a gaping bleeding hole across his face.


    ¡°Tsk¡­¡± Harbinger grabbed the blue-eyed agent by the throat and slammed him against the wall, ¡°This is the strength of an enhanced human? This is supposed to be the pinnacle of human strength? What makes enhanced humans so special?! What makes you so special?!¡±


    Felix looked up, revealing the bullet that he caught in his bloodstained teeth and spat it at his face.


    An enraged grin formed on the man¡¯s face as the shard of lead struck his cheek.


    Harbinger squeezed his neck tighter, asking, ¡°Please, explain to me how a novice like you, the poster boy of Project ASTRAEA, reached rank thirteen?!¡± Frustration bleeding through his words.


    With only one useful arm, the blue-eyed agent grappled against the hand choking him. His face swelled as he struggled.


    My rank? What does that have to do with any of this?


    Sweat dripped over his mismatched eyes, blurring his vision. He could barely make out Harbinger¡¯s expression. With barely any air getting into his lungs and brain, Felix¡¯s consciousness was quickly fading into black.


    But before he could pass out, he faintly heard Harbinger¡¯s ridicule, ¡°Who would have thought¡­ that Nocturne¡¯s little brother¡­ would turn out to be so pathetic?!¡±


    As he uttered those words, small, ephemeral blue sparks erupted from the wound on Felix¡¯s other arm.


    He¡¯s right, I¡¯ve done nothing to earn my place¡­ It''s probably nothing more than the whims and expectations of the higher-ups.


    But who cares?


    I¡¯m here anyway, so I¡¯m going to honor something.


    I will rise higher¡ª


    And you¡¯re in the way!


    A sharp slash whipped against the wind, followed by a dull wet thud on the ground.


    Felix¡¯s arm was raised upward, set ablaze with a fiery blue haze pouring out from his wound.


    Harbinger¡¯s eyes slowly descended to where the sound came from, where he saw something familiar wrapped in a sleeve, leaking with blood.


    ¡°Huh?¡± His voice cracked as he realized his arm had been cleanly taken off.


    When Felix¡¯s feet touched the ground, he took in a crude inhale and supported himself against the wall that he was choked against.


    Harbinger¡¯s glanced back at his opponent, and in a rage, he struck with his remaining arm. But the black-haired agent caught the attack with ease.


    Stood in front of him was the same agent, with the same raven-black hair, and the same blistering wound on his face. But now, he was bathed in a blue glow that outlined his body.


    Azure sparks glistened around the child of stars, and wiry strings of electricity started to form from his wounds, weaving and sewing his cheek back together, reforming his missing flesh.


    Harbinger tried to pull back his arm, but the tight grip on it would not move an inch. His brows curled angrily, frightened and enraged.


    With a loud, desperate cry, the man swung his foot with a powerful kick, striking Felix dead in the face.


    The grip around his arm loosened, and he was able to back away.


    But the ephemeral sparks spiraled, forming waves of blue flames that danced into a spherical shape ¡ª it was as if a star formed around his body.


    Unable to make sense of what was going on, Harbinger¡¯s mouth trembled at the sight of the burning blue dome, ¡°Wh-what?!¡±


    But the crystalline structure in front of him was incomplete, having gaps where the flames did not shine through, sections that were thin and transparent.


    From one of the gaps, Felix gazed at Harbinger with eyes full of fury.


    Harbinger¡¯s instincts screamed for him to run, but his body was a few seconds too late to respond. He was only able to turn around and take half a step forward.


    Then, the blue star burst ¡ª


    Particles of blue light scattered, illuminating the entirety of the server room. The silent shock wave sent Harbinger slamming through several servers.


    With slow aching steps that lifted up the rubble around him, Felix approached the man with a fierce glare. The blue haze that enveloped his body was dispersing and fading away.


    Once again disheveled, Harbinger tilted his head up. Standing before him was the man he had taunted, wrapped in cold, silent rage.


    ¡°P-please¡­ spare me¡­¡± Lying atop the broken black pillars, he pleaded, ¡°I¡¯m just doing what they told me to...¡±


    ¡°By who? Who ordered you to do this? What are they after? Why did you disappear from the agency?¡± He grabbed the old man by the collar and shot out a flurry of questions.


    ¡°He took everything¡­ He said he¡¯d give her back¡­ He said he¡¯d give her back if I did what he told me to¡­¡±


    ¡°Who is he?!¡±


    ¡°Julius¡­¡±


    ¡°Julius who? His full name, from where, what does he look like?¡± His grip tightened.


    ¡°He has blond hair¡­ wears a suit¡­ and hides his eyes¡­ I don¡¯t know anything else.¡± He mumbled in a barely audible voice.


    ¡°Give who back?¡±


    ¡°Her¡­ her, her! HER! HER! HER! GRAAAAGH!¡± Felix let go as Harbinger began to violently convulse, ¡°¡­I can¡¯t¡­ even remember her face¡­¡± The broken man sniffled.


    ¡°I see.¡± Slightly disturbed, Felix picked up his gun and sneered, ¡°If that¡¯s all you can offer me¡­¡±


    ¡°Please¡­ d-don¡¯t kill me¡­¡±


    ¡°No hard feelings, but no loose ends.¡± Felix echoed.


    But as he reloaded his gun, Harbinger cackled, ¡°I remember¡­¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Julius, I see it now¡­¡± He looked up at Felix with tears in his eyes, reflecting the glowing aura that he emitted, ¡°...that power¡­ that¡­ ¡°Star.¡± It¡¯s you¡­ you¡¯re the one he¡¯s afraid of, Felix Aster!¡±


    Blood splattered out of Harbinger¡¯s mouth as he laughed out maniacally and fell to the ground.


    Felix stepped back in disgust and shock at the sight of the broken man.


    ¡°Please¡­ don¡¯t kill me¡­¡±


    His hand trembled as he aimed his gun at the man¡¯s head, but before he could pull the trigger, a memory intruded in his head. One with a soft smile, and a warm ember glow. The words echoed in his ears, ¡°You¡¯re a good, kind person, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    The blue haze that enveloped him dispersed, and his smile faded along with it. He looked to the side and clicked his tongue.


    ¡°You¡¯re an Elite Agent¡­ have some pride, damn it.¡± With a disappointed sigh, he fell to the floor and glared at him with pitying eyes.


    Harbinger let out a soft chuckle and closed his eyes, turning completely silent.


    ~

 Birth of a Phantom part 4

    Felix sat on the floor and let out a deep exhale, exhausted from the battle. He pulled out the broken pendant of a four-leaf clover, and stared at it longingly.


    This¡­ wasn¡¯t the grand battle I thought it was¡­


    Blood dripped down his nose, and as he stared at his arm, his veins appeared to be glowing, lighting up his flesh from within.


    ¡°Urk¡­¡± He winced. His expression quickly changed to panic, as an uncontrollable blue fire burst out, crackling into streams of electricity, ¡°Huh?!¡±


    ¡°Why is it!?¡± He shot back on his feet, a sharp pain came from the gash in his arm, ¡°Doing that?!¡±


    As he frantically waved his arms up and down, a pair of arms wrap around him from behind.


    ¡°Calm down, just calm down!¡± A feminine voice urged him.


    He turned around, and saw the black-haired woman holding him, ¡°Huh? What?! Marie?!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. It¡¯s healing you. Your powers are healing you.¡± Her voice calmed him down.


    ¡°M-Marie¡­? You¡¯re alive?¡± He asked with complete confusion, sweat pouring from his face.


    ¡°Alive and kicking, no thanks to you.¡± She released him and took a step back, ¡°You know, you fail as a bodyguard.¡±


    A relieved sigh washed over him, ¡°But you¡¯re¡­ you were¡­ I don¡¯t know what to say. I¡¯m just¡­ glad that you¡¯re¡­ Sorry, I¡¯m exhausted.¡± He scratched his cheek.


    ¡°I know. I saw everything. Your eyes, your speed, and your look just needs a splash of oomph to it.¡± She suddenly covered her mouth, letting out a giddy squeal.


    His eyebrows furrowed, letting out a nervous laughter, ¡°I just tore a man¡¯s arm off, why do you sound so¡­ excited?¡±


    ¡°I just sliced a man in half a few hours ago¡­ but your eyes¡­ they¡¯re not something I see everyday.¡± She watched with a proud smile.


    ¡°¡­ Eyes? Both of them?¡± He echoed back as he slowly placed his hand under his right eye, which was shimmering with the same azure glow as the left.


    His attention shifted to the blue haze emanating through the torn flaps of his black coat.


    Professor Tetsuya¡¯s words echoed in his head:


    The other one will also turn blue in due time. And when that happens, your gifts will finally¡­ oh my, I can hardly wait.


    ¡°Wait, no, we don¡¯t have time for this. We still need to escape. Can you still move?¡± His voice raised with urgency.


    ¡°It¡¯ll take more than a bullet to put me down for good.¡± The dark-haired woman placed her hand on the back of her head, and with an uncomfortable expression, clawed something out.


    With a pained grunt, she showed Felix a metal shard between her fingertips. It was the bullet Harbinger had shot her with.


    ¡°But damn does it hurt¡­ like¡­ hell...¡± Her voice weakened as she nearly toppled over, but Felix caught her as she fell, holding her upright with his wounded arm.


    She noticed the flesh and muscles in his arm slowly weaving back together.


    ¡°We need to get to the hospital¡­¡±


    ¡°Looks pretty deep, but like I said, nothing leaves a scar on us.¡± She giggled weakly, before turning into a fit of violent coughs.


    Felix stared blankly at her, muttering, ¡°We still need to get out of here.¡±


    ¡°Before that¡­¡± She wobbled over to where Harbinger was, and got the drive back from his pocket. ¡°What do we do with him, then?¡± She asked.


    ¡°He¡¯s no longer a threat. Just leave him be.¡± He leaned on one of the servers that were still standing.


    ¡°I still think we should get rid of him.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather not kill¡­¡± He lowered his gaze, ¡°Not when if it¡¯s unnecessary¡­¡±


    ¡°He might survive long enough for the guards to interrogate him.¡± She argued.


    Before he could formulate a response, he heard the distant sound of footsteps and doors opening from the lower floors.


    ¡°¡­Fine. We don¡¯t have much time. They¡¯re almost here.¡± He conceded.


    ¡°Right.¡± Maria kneeled down to Harbinger¡¯s level.


    He looked away, opposite her direction, and stared out the window wall. He watched the fireworks pop from the skyline, hearing the distant thud and crackle that came after.


    From beneath his feet, he listened to the footsteps of guards getting closer. Unable to catch his breath, his face grew increasing impatient.


    But as the light from the firework faded away, and his glowing blue eyes reflected in the window wall, he saw Maria¡¯s reflection, holding a pistol.


    He quickly turned around to see her kneeling down, with the barrel of a gun placed inside Harbinger¡¯s mouth.


    The dark-haired woman coldly whispered as her own blood slid across her cheek, ¡°A bulletproof vest gonna save you from this.¡±


    ¡°Wait, no! Don¡¯t use a¡ª¡±


    With a loud crack, Harbinger¡¯s blood painted the servers. But the sound of her gun echoed to the lower floors, drawing the attention of the guards below.


    ¡°I heard a gun fire!¡±


    ¡°It came from up there!¡±


    The voices of the guards flurried in as they rushed towards their location.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you use your knife? I thought they were your specialty!¡± He shouted in a low voice, trying his best to keep himself not signal their location.


    ¡°This just seemed easier!¡±


    ¡°And you didn¡¯t think to use a silencer?!¡±


    ¡°It was the only piece on me!¡±


    While the two of them bickered, Felix could hear footsteps rushing to their direction.


    He shifted his pistol towards the door. His hands barely steady. The adrenaline pumping through his veins was dissipating. He could barely stay awake, much less continue to fight.


    ¡°I can¡¯t fight¡­ Did we get what we came here for?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, everything¡¯s in this drive.¡±


    ¡°Then we have to go.¡±


    ¡°Right!¡± She thoughtlessly wobbled towards the exit.


    But he stopped her by grabbing her by the arm, ¡°We can¡¯t go through that door, they¡¯re on their way.¡±


    ¡°Then what about through the hole?¡± She pointed to the blast mark left by the explosion.


    ¡°No, there are still guards climbing up. We¡¯ll be surrounded.¡±


    Felix¡¯s glowing blue eyes scanned the room, looking for a way out. But there were no other doors, nor any vents they could slip in through. His attention noticed shattered remains of the onyx table, and slowly shifted his gaze to the shattered servers, and to the gaping hole down the middle.


    ¡°Oh¡­ Bollocks.¡± He cursed the current state of the server room, turning around. His gaze then focused on the shattered window as he had an idea.


    Felix pulled out his pistol, shooting the window several times, ¡°Get your grappling hook!¡±


    ¡°It blew up with the grenade!¡± Maria shouted back.


    Outside the door, the remaining guards stood in horror. Frozen and sickened at the corpses Harbinger left in the hall just outside the server room.


    ¡°Men, get ready!¡± The head guard ordered, and the men lined their rifles towards the door. With a nervous expression, the head guard slowly moved towards the door with a key card.


    Felix¡¯s heart pounded. He holstered his gun and picked up Maria in his arms.


    ¡°Wh-what are you¡ª?¡± Her expression was flushed with a mix of both shock and fright.


    ¡°How high could the top floor be?¡± He nervously laughed, taking a few steps back.


    ¡°No, no you aren¡¯t!¡± She protested.


    ¡°Hope we¡¯re still keeping the damages to a minimum!¡± With Maria in his arms, he began bolting towards the broken window.


    The door opened, and the head guard immediately spotted them, ¡°There they are!¡±


    Bullets started flying in the two agent¡¯s direction, destroying what remained of server room.


    ¡°After them!¡± They chased after the two agents.


    ¡°Hold on!¡± Felix shouted, kicking the window with his iron-clad heel. Maria clinging tightly to him.


    But as the guard¡¯s ran through the ruins, the head guard nearly fell into the hole into the center, ¡°Whoa¡ª!¡±


    Shards scattered through the air, and as they all looked forward, all that was left to greet them was the blue firework that decorated the sky.


    *


    Felix held Maria tightly as they fell down the building. Their black hair fluttered chaotically to the winds blowing below them.


    Their reflections on the building¡¯s windows fell alongside them, while the bright and brilliant fireworks outlined their silhouettes, glittering with the scattering shards.


    Maria glanced upwards and looked at Felix¡¯s face, illuminated up by the vibrant colors of the that decorated the night. As he noticed this, he gave her a reassuring grin, and her cheeks flushed red with excited.


    But their grins quickly vanished as soon as they crashed.


    Even though Felix thought he had steeled himself for the fall, as soon as his feet made contact to the roof of the next building, a massive tingle crawled up from his feet that slowly made its way through every fiber of his body, especially to his still-healing arm, which sputtered out blood.


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Shock had locked him in place, and the gnawing numbness ate away at him. The blood vessels in his body felt like they were about to burst, and Maria¡¯s tight hold on him didn¡¯t make it any easier.


    To him, it felt like an eternity before he was finally able to move a finger again, and a little longer just to take a step forward. He began to move slowly, one step at a time.


    ¡°F-Felix¡­¡± Maria opened her eyes slowly, her voice shook.


    ¡°What?¡± Felix answered with jittering teeth.


    ¡°Your eyes¡­ are shining.¡±


    ¡°You said that earlier¡­¡±


    ¡°Gnarly.¡±


    He paused for a moment after hearing what she said and shot her a condescending stare. With her, he felt like he lost his sense of urgency.


    It wasn¡¯t until a loud thud could be struck the metal roof that Felix started to move again. The two of them looked with horrified expressions as they saw a hole in the roof that wasn¡¯t there when they landed.


    The sense of urgency immediately returned to him as a bullet ripped a lock out of his black hair.


    Without turning back to look, he sprinted.


    More rounds flew few and far, but all were aimed in the two¡¯s general direction from a sniper positioned from where they dropped off.


    ¡°Persistent gobshites.¡± Felix clicked his tongue.


    He picked up the pace and ran across the rusty steel roof panels, leaving only a ghostly blue trail behind him.


    ¡°F-Felix¡­ s-slow down¡­ I can barely see where we¡¯re¡­ gonna be sick¡­¡± Maria¡¯s cheeks puffed as she looked back.


    ¡°Bear with it for¡ª¡± A bullet struck his shoulder from behind, and the two fell from the roof and straight into an alley full of garbage.


    Lying over a pile of trash, he grunted, ¡°Urgh¡­ urrghh¡­ huh, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Making disguises.¡± Maria smiled as she rummaged through the garbage. She then threw a make-shift outfit made from worn out rags over him, ¡°Take off your coat.¡±


    ¡°These stink¡­¡± He remarked.


    She put on one of the dirty clothes and replied, ¡°Yeah, well, I think death would stink worse.¡±


    The fireworks echoed across the sky while the two barely disguised agents walked into the crowds, shaking off their pursuers as they headed toward a particular street.


    Knocking on the stall, Maria softly exclaimed, ¡°Robin, we need disguises. We have coin!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have anything like that. But¡­ I do have these.¡± The man rummaged through his shelf and pulled something out.


    ¡°Ta-da, superhero masks!¡± The old man smiled and handed them two masks, one pale white with blue markings and the other gold with red markings.


    Felix¡¯s expression was full of dismay as he picked it up, but he glanced at Maria who continued to stareat her mask, he put it on and jested, ¡°Look, Marie, we¡¯re superheroes.¡±


    Maria¡¯s eyebrows furrowed and her smile slowly faded, like something in the back of her mind resurfaced, ¡°We¡¯re not heroes.¡± Her voice became frigid and distant, to which Felix flashed her a puzzled look.


    She quickly changed her tune as she noticed the change in his expression, ¡°Mhm¡­ that¡¯s actually a good look for you.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ wearing a mask.¡±


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Maria beamed brightly, much to his chagrin.


    The two turned their heads over to the side where they heard footsteps from the distance.


    Several guards then came out of the corner and approached the stall. The man in the middle, the headguard from earlier, walked up and looked down on the robin.


    ¡°Anything I can do for you gentlemen?¡± The robin asked nonchalantly.


    ¡°We¡¯re looking for two people, a man and a woman in dark outfits. We saw them coming this way.¡±


    ¡°I believe there are a number of couples out here tonight, sir.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not playing games!¡± He slammed his hand against the wooden counter, ¡°The two of them went through here wearing what appeared to be rags from the garbage. One of them had a blue eye.¡±


    ¡°Is that supposed to be like, a black eye?¡±


    The headguard grabbed the merchant by his hair and slammed him into the wooden counter. ¡°I said I¡¯m not playing games.¡±


    ¡°Oh, those two?¡± He answered in pain, ¡°They bought two hero masks a bit before you got here. They headed straight over there.¡±


    ¡°Masks?¡± The guard inspected the old man¡¯s stall. ¡°Which one?¡±


    ¡°Sorry sir, I don¡¯t have any to spare, but one was red and the other was orange.¡±


    The headguard raised his eyebrow as he inspected ¡°Surround the town, the two of them are wearing red and orange masks. Look for anyone suspicious. If we don¡¯t find them, it¡¯s your head.¡±


    The two agents crawled out from under the robin¡¯s stall.


    ¡°Thanks a lot, old man.¡± Without looking behind, Maria quickly ran.


    But Felix turned around and spoke, ¡°I¡¯ll be sure to credit you accordingly.¡±


    The robin smiled, ¡°It better be a lot of credits.¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyes widen before changing into a smirk.


    The festival continued, and the two agents saw the sights as they walked around, making their way through the crowds.


    As they slowly made it farther into the less populated areas, the sharp sound of a gun echoed through the air behind them, followed by the sound of a body dropping to the ground.


    Screams of fear and panic erupted from behind them.


    Maria stopped in her tracks with a curious expression, but before she could turn her head, Felix took her hand and spoke, ¡°Don¡¯t turn back now. Just keep moving.¡± There was a coldness in his voice.


    She looked at him and saw the blood stain forming on his back. She simply nodded and followed him.


    They both knew who it was, and why it happened. It was simply the consequences of their actions, and something that happens often in their line of work.


    As soon as they hit a corner by an alleyway, she let go of his hand and removed her makeshift disguise.


    ¡°Over here.¡± She said as she lifted a manhole cover in front of them.


    He walked up to her and asked, ¡°What¡¯s this?¡±


    ¡°Our escape route. One where they won¡¯t find us.¡± She hopped in.


    He followed her into the darkness below. As he landed, the wet splash from his boots reverberated in the tunnels. The air underground was thick, stagnant and moist, pungent with the scent of decay.


    Old water trickled down from the pipes above them, like rain dripping to the drains.


    The brickwork was covered in the green of moss, illuminated by the limited lights from the dingy old lamps that hung overhead, and the light radiating behind Felix¡¯s mask.


    Felix removed the makeshift outfit of worn out rags, but kept the mask on to cover his face. Though it didn¡¯t do much, it was better than smelling the scent directly.


    He followed her through the dreary passages of the canal, each step sputtering and echoed, there was a feeling he could slip at any moment. ¡°Do you actually know where we¡¯re going?¡± He asked.


    ¡°The tunnels speak to me.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± He asked half-jokingly.


    ¡°A great, many things.¡± She answered as she pulled out a transceiver.


    ¡°Haaa¡­. You really make no sense to me.¡± He replied, letting out an unhinged laughter.


    ¡°Thanks.¡± She chuckled as she glanced back at him, ¡°Just messing with you, I¡¯ve had my fair share of making quick escapes. Anywhere through here will likely lead to the outside, we just gotta avoid getting spotted.¡±


    He gave her a startled look.


    After everything I went through with her, I really didn¡¯t know how else to respond anymore.


    At that moment, the transceiver connected under the sewers. A static blur noise sounded before Maria spoke.


    ¡°This is Venom Vanguard.¡±


    ¡°Venom¡ª. Th¡ª is HQ, do you copy?¡± A voice answered through the transceiver.


    The replies were filled with static feedback, the hush flow of sewer water echoed.


    ¡°We read you. The mission is complete. We need an extraction.¡±


    ¡°Roger¡ª What¡ª¡ª¡ªcoordinates?¡±


    ¡°Somewhere in the sewage. I don¡¯t know the specifics, but we should be somewhere North East from the festival.¡±


    ¡°Roger that, exfil at point Gamma on your map.¡±


    ¡°Understood. Over.¡± The transmission ended and she placed the transceiver on her side.


    Maria used a holographic map to navigate them out of the sewage, ¡°Blue¡­ azure¡­ ghost¡­ poltergeist¡­no, that doesn¡¯t sound right.¡± She mumbled to herself as she looked at the map.


    He tilted his head, wondering what she was blurting out.


    Once they found light piercing down from above, the two climbed out of the manhole.


    They took a deep inhale. A wave of fresh, cold air made them feel like they could finally breathe again. Maria whispered something under her breath, ¡°Phantom.¡±


    ¡°Hm?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have an official codename yet, right?¡±


    ¡°Hm yeah?¡±


    ¡°How about ¡®Blue Phantom¡¯? It really suits you! Your style, your speed, those unfollowable movements!¡± She squealed out excitedly as the wind blew from behind her. Her smile silhouetted against the light of the helicopter that came to pick the two up.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think ¡®unfollowable¡¯ is a word.¡±


    ¡°We could always stick with Child of Stars.¡± She teased.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think now is the best time for this.¡± Felix replied as he took off his mask.


    He then contemplated for a second, giving it just a bit more thought.


    It sounds tacky, but I didn¡¯t really have an argument. It was either ¡®Child of Stars¡¯ or Black Cat of Ruin. The title the professor insists on me, or being an omen.


    The dark-haired woman continued, ¡°You should just register your code name as that! That white mask, and those glowing blue¡ª eyes¡­¡± her excitement instantly vanished as she turned to face him.


    Felix¡¯s soft smile also vanished as he realized what her expression meant. He reached for his right eye. The glowing blue eye had returned to pitch-black once again, leaving him with only a single blue iris.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s fine. It¡¯ll turn blue soon enough.¡±


    Their hair brushed and bounced from the strong winds below the helicopter. She gave him a soft, understanding smile before boarding the helicopter.


    He sighed and boarded after she did, his expression turned solemn as he quietly accepted it.


    As they ascended into the sky, the winds grew chillier. Felix covered her with a blanket as he watched her fall asleep.


    He scratched his cheek, and took a sharp inhale, ¡°Hey¡­ about your question earlier.¡±


    ¡°Mhm¡­¡± She mumbled.


    ¡°¡­The reason why I want to be number one¡­ is because my mentor, Nocturne, she¡­wanted to become number one.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ why¡¯s that¡­?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong, it¡¯s not something she told me to do that¡­ but¡­¡± Felix placed his hand under his blood-stained shirt, holding the four-leaf clover necklace underneath, ¡°If I didn¡¯t become number one, then I¡¯d feel like I let her down.¡±


    ¡°Is that so¡­ well, I have a goal now myself¡­¡±


    ¡°And what¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°To¡­ reprogram you¡­¡± Her last words before drifting off into deep slumber.


    With a smirk, he responded, ¡°And how do you expect to¡­ ah¡­¡± But he stopped as her head fell on his shoulder.


    He smiled before he could finish his thought, as he saw that she had already fallen asleep.


    **


    Four hours passed and already Maria was deep in slumber while Felix tiresomely continued to write his report on the way of their return. As the chief reads his report, she lets a small smirk.


    The two agents arrived in the dead of night, and after they had received minor treatment for their wounds, they were ready to go to sleep, until¡­


    ¡°Widespread panic, destruction and public and private property, and a death toll of over forty people¡­ all for this.¡± The chief stood sternly, her orange-tinted glasses reflecting with an opaque white glow as she stared at the flash drive.


    The exhausted duo were both summoned to the chief¡¯s brightly lit office. Maria, who was still half-asleep, stood restlessly. Felix on the other hand no longer had the strength to care for what the chief had to say.


    ¡°Splendid work.¡± Chief crushed the flash drive in her hands.


    ¡°Why would you¡ª?!¡± Felix burst out.


    ¡°You destroyed their data center during the fight, right?¡±


    ¡°Uh, y-yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°Good. This drive contained a program that was meant to destroy all the data in those servers. The world has no business knowing the contents saved in this drive.¡± She explained as she dropped the crushed pieces onto the ground.


    Maria¡¯s shoulders dropped as she sighed, ¡°Ah, that makes sense.¡±


    ¡°Now, as for the both of you. Not only were you able to successfully complete the mission, you also took down the ex-agent, Harbinger. You both did better than I expected. Even the Director was pleased.¡±


    ¡°We are humbled by your words, sir.¡± Felix stated.


    ¡°Thank you for your praise, madam Chief.¡± Maria replied with a yawn in her tone. ¡°But¡­ ex-agent?¡± she added after her drowsy response.


    ¡°We had reason to believe that he was feeding intel to other organizations outside of the allied agencies. When the higher-ups planned to question him upon his return, he suddenly went MIA.¡± The chief¡¯s volume grew lower as she speculated to herself, ¡°Still, he wasn¡¯t a computer cracker, so how did he expect to get the intel?¡±


    ¡°I see. I¡¯d like to know more, but¡­ with all due respect, the two of us would like to get some rest.¡±


    ¡°Of course, but before that, an announcement; given how well this went, the board has come to the decision to assign the two of you as partners.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me?¡± Felix asked in a startled manner.


    ¡°You wot mate?¡± Maria blurted out.


    ¡°Of course, this isn¡¯t set in stone yet since I still have paperwork. And just because you¡¯re partners, doesn¡¯t mean you¡¯ll always be on the same mission.¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah¡­ great¡­ did you even read my report?¡± Felix bit his lip, preventing his emotions from spilling out.


    ¡°I¡¯ll have none of your sass, Felix. That will be all, dismissed.¡± The chief instructed as she returned to sit on her desk.


    As the two agents walked toward the door, Felix suddenly stopped and signaled Maria to leave first. She nodded quietly before letting out a yawn and walking away.


    ¡°What is it, Felix?¡± The chief asked while she lit a cigarette.


    ¡°Remember when I said that I didn¡¯t care for codenames, and that call me whatever you liked?¡± Felix placed his hand on his cheek and touched the skin beneath his left eye.


    ¡°Indeed, Child of the Stars.¡± The chief answered mockingly.


    ¡°It seems that I¡­ may have ignored its purpose. I might change that¡­ as well as request a small modification to my outfit.¡±


    ¡°Oh, and what would that be?¡±


    ¡°Give me a white mask, something that looks um¡­ ¡°Cool.¡± And¡­ as for my codename, I think it should be Blue Phantom. Oh and maybe an adjustment¡­ a smaller grappling hook.¡±


    ¡°Hooo? What¡¯s with the sudden change of heart?¡± The chief¡¯s mocking smirk turned to a proud smile toward Felix.


    He placed his hand on his cheek, remembering the warmth of her blood spilling across it as he recounted the events in his mind, and all he could remember was how much she made the mission more difficult than it had to be.


    ¡°She may have been a headache, but despite being a terrible agent, as well as all the nonsense and shortcomings she brought along with her, it all felt¡­ fun.¡±


    That girl¡­ she was really unprofessional and was difficult to deal with at times, but the silliness she brings with her alleviated some of the weight. And in her own right, she was equally as terrifying as she was scatterbrained. But I guess to put it in a way, being with her was¡­ nice.


    ¡°Is that a fact? Truth be told, when I told the both of you to minimize the damage, it wasn¡¯t you I was concerned about.¡± The chief grinned slightly.


    ¡°You mean¡­?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, you were just the one who reacted first. Anyhow, your requests sound simple enough. I¡¯ll have it done.¡± The chief responded as she blew out smoke from her mouth.


    Felix scratched his cheek, ¡°Thank you, chief.¡±


    Against the corridor outside the Chief¡¯s office, the shorthaired young lady eavesdropped on their conversation, clutched her chest as she let out a warm smile.


    Before Felix could reach for the knob, however, the chief let out another puff of smoke and spoke, ¡°You know, I think Luna would be proud of your results.¡±


    His lips curled ever so slightly, forming a small smile.


    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t think she would¡¯ve given me passing marks after what happened.¡± He cheerfully said as he looked at his severely wounded arm.


    He exited the room, clutching the pendant underneath his shirt, only to be met with the ecstatic smile of his new partner waiting outside the office.


    Now feared as the Golden Lion Agency¡¯s greatest weapon. Codename, Blue Phantom, now registered.


    ~

 Flowery Iris part 1

    Chapter 3


    Flowery Iris


    The sun rose and brought with it the morning light. The foliage swayed about outside, the red and blue flowers brushed gently against the glass window wall. Footsteps echoed through the white tile floor, and stood in front of the hatch-like metal door, Felix impatiently tapped his foot in wait.


    For her to still be asleep at this hour... He thought to himself.


    After repeatedly knocking on the door, yet the only response he received from her was a sleepy ¡°Hngg¡­¡±


    Stood in wait, he recalled a memory from long ago, one where Luna went to his room and pulled up the sheets from his body. He nodded to himself and came to the same conclusion.


    He sighed before announcing, ¡°I¡¯m opening the door.¡±


    The metal hatch automatically opened as he entered, ¡°Come on, Marie¡­¡±


    ¡°Hehe¡­ who?¡± She responded, still in bed and wrapped in blankets.


    ¡°Me.¡±


    ¡°Hi me¡­ ehe¡­ ehehe¡­¡± She giggled in her slumber.


    ¡°Marie¡­¡±


    Maria buried herself in her sheets and blurted out, ¡°Whaddaya want? Let me sleep forever¡­¡±


    Felix entered the room with a scowl, perusing the messy, cluttered room with a disappointed expression. Yet his eyes squinted as the first thing that caught his attention was the light from the scattered shards of a broken mirror on top of her make-up filled desk.


    ¡°What happened to your mirror?¡± He mumbled under his breath.


    He looked at his own hand, and a memory resurfaced. A warm smile from a white-haired woman.


    With a focused gaze, he reached out his hand from where he stood, hoping to call out the power he once had. ¡°Come on, work.¡±


    Felix¡¯s expression filled up with desperation, his hand shook, yet as soon as a drop of sweat slid down from his temple to his chin, nothing happened.


    With a sigh, he walked towards it and picked up one of the shards, and took a long look at his reflection. There was nothing but disappointment hiding behind his mismatched eyes.


    ¡°Mhhmm~! Good morning.¡± The dark-haired young woman stretched out her arms.


    He placed the shard back on the table, changing his disappointed expression with a more presentable one as he faced her, ¡°About time you woke up, it¡¯s ten A.M.¡±


    ¡°I was having some of that good sleep. Wait¡­ what are you doing in my room?¡± She mumbled as the bedsheet covering her fell off her chest.


    As she slowly looked down, her eyes widened and her face turned beet-red.


    Felix¡¯s eyebrows raised slightly. Covered only in her underwear, her slender frame was in full view. The dark-haired woman pounced out of her bed and quickly wrapped herself in bedsheets.


    ¡°Wh-what¡¯s wrong with you¡ª?!¡±


    Felix let out a smirk and replied, ¡°Heh, a great, many¡ª¡±


    Yet before he could finish, the pillow launched at him like a cannon, covered in a red haze as it tore out the edges of his raven-black hair, before promptly cracking the window walls outside her room. With a look of fright, he returned his gaze toward her as his eyes radiated a faint blue glow, only to see Maria¡¯s face, flustered and flushed in red with eyes tightly closed.


    ¡°Get out!¡± she cried as she began to throw whatever she could get her hands on toward him.


    He caught everything she threw at him and gently put them down in an attempt to calm her down.


    ¡°I can¡¯t get out if you keep throwing¡ª Eh, what¡¯s this¡­?¡± He distractedly said as he inspected a black, oily substance that slithered out of the bottle he caught.


    ¡°N-No fair! You¡¯re using Blue Mode!¡± She bumbled to speak, snapping Felix out of his threatened state.


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°I just¡­what is this¡ª Wait, Blue Mode? Does that mean that¡­¡± He turned to face her while the black fluid clung to his hand.


    Maria whimpered, still clinging to one of her pillows, ¡°Get out of my room!¡±


    ¡°Fine, fine.¡± He replied as he walked away.


    With an infuriated smile, she clenched her fist in response.


    Does that mean my powers triggered from her bloodlust?


    Clueless and curious, Felix left the room with his hand on his chin. But felt a chill down his spine. A sixth sense suddenly screamed for self-preservation. Another pillow was hurled with immense speed and power.


    As he got out of it¡¯s way, however, a shrill shriek pierced the corridor.


    ¡°KYAH!¡± A girl from outside cried out as she plopped down, ambushed and struck by the weight of a pillow.


    ¡°Marie! Careful!¡± He glanced over at her.


    ¡°Sorry!¡± Maria cried out as the door automatically shut.


    The girl¡¯s body was sprawled out. Her silvery-white hair scattered across the floor¡¯s surface, while her face was covered by the pillow. Beside her, a blond young man sighed with a detached manner, not even bothering to glance over to her. His face was obscured by the shadow against the morning light, and his hands tucked his dark red coat¡¯s pockets.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about what happened¡­¡± Felix knelt down, lifting the pillow off her face.


    As he did, the young lady placed her palms against his cheek. Felix pulled back slightly, startled by her soft touch as she muttered, ¡°Your eyes¡­ they¡¯re like flowers.¡±


    Her thumb caressing the mole under his right eye, as if trying to wipe away a blemish in a clean canvas.


    The white-haired woman found herself captivated in his azure eyes. An ethereal light bloomed from his iris, flowing out like tides and weaving intricate details that resembled petals. Not reflecting the world¡¯s light, but rather creating it¡¯s own.


    Though the same could be said of her own. A cosmic crimson shining in hers.


    ¡°My eyes¡­?¡± Felix blinked, lost in thought.


    My face felt hot as her palms touched my cheeks. Her hands were soft and cold and smelled of citrus. Her face was small and cute, no, beautiful even. With bright red eyes held a piercing gaze, yet I found that my focus was drawn mostly to her long silvery hair. It reminded me so much of¡ª


    ¡°Like a flowery iris¡­ It¡¯s a lot like ours...¡± Her voice was soft as sweet.


    He slowly asked, ¡°Who¡­ are you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Come on, Isa. A hit like that shouldn¡¯t have taken you out.¡± The blond man said as he knelt down next to them.


    With his back turned from the window, the shadows obscured his face. And yet his eyes could be seen clearly, radiating with the same crimson light as the girl on the floor.


    He extending his hand, but to Felix¡¯s surprise, instead of helping her get up, he reached for the pillow.


    The silver-haired girl pressed her arms behind her head, and sprang back to her feet with a kip-up, ¡°Sorry, it just caught me off guard! Hehe.¡± She playfully grinned.


    As the two of them got up, so did Felix. The blue-eyed young man got a clear look at the two in front of him. The girl with silver-hair and crimson eyes was dressed in a white blouse with fitted black pants, while the blond man beside her stood half a foot taller than him, with golden hair and keen facial features. His eyes were sharp, painfully sharp, and had an air of danger surrounding him.


    ¡°That girl just now had a mean swing¡­ I¡¯d like to compare.¡± The red-eyed man spoke, pulling back his arm with his hand clenched on the pillow.


    ¡°What do you¡ª?¡±


    With a wry smile and a tinge of red glow, the pillow instantly escaped Felix¡¯s line of sight. Followed by a loud bang that echoed through the corridors.


    ¡°What?!¡± Maria yelled out from her room as she was in the middle of changing.


    Felix turned his head to Maria¡¯s door. A cold sweat dripped down from his face as he tried to process what had happened. After a small pause, he then returned his sight back to the two strange guests, but the two were already far across the hall.


    The blond visitor looked back and said, ¡°So you¡¯re the Blue Phantom? Frankly, I¡¯m not impressed.¡±


    The silver-haired woman looked at him remarked, ¡°You¡¯re so petty.¡±


    ¡°Who¡­ are you two?¡± Felix asked, looking at the door.


    The blond young man looked over his shoulder and waved, ¡°I have a feeling you¡¯ll find out very soon.¡±


    With a gentle smile, she responded, ¡°Actually, the two of us are¡ª¡±


    He covered her mouth and groaned, ¡°Don¡¯t answer him!¡±


    The two then turned the corridor and left.


    ¡°Gobshite.¡± Felix whispered under his breath as he watched them walk away.


    When the two were gone, the door opened as Maria haggardly burst out, apparent in her appearance as how much she hurried, ¡°Okay! I¡¯m dressed! What was that noi¡ªNANI THE FUCK?!¡± She shouted as she saw the consequences of her actions.


    The entrance to her room had been marked with a crater, decorated with traces of cloth and cotton.


    ¡°That was probably payback.¡± Felix shrugged. The blue in his right iris slowly faded, and returned into a pitch-black color.


    ¡°This is an iron-door! They dented it! WITH A PILLOW! MY PILLOW!¡± Maria put her hands on the sides of her head. The shock of seeing the remains of her pillow embedded into her silvery door is apparent from her expression.


    ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s... strange¡­ those two¡­¡±


    ¡°They¡­ might be fun.¡± Maria whispered under her breath with a grin on her face.


    ¡°Sigh, What¡¯s wrong with¡ª¡±


    ¡°No. No! You do not! Get to say that. Right now!¡± She yelled with a sulky, sour expression. She then slammed the metal door.


    Felix, stunned by the metallic bang, was about to knock. ¡°Marie, I¡­¡± But he stopped short shy of a few inches. With a sigh, he placed his hands against his chin. The blue in his right eye faded as he silently walked away, deep in thought.


    Inside her room, Maria leaned against her bent metal door, listening to his every step.


    She slid down and picked up the small bottle on the ground, rubbing the slick substance between her thumb and index finger. With a flustered expression, she let out a deep sigh and muttered to herself, ¡°Idiot¡­¡±


    When she got up and opened the door, she looked to the hallway and weakly called out, ¡°Felix¡­¡±


    However, she was greeted by the face of an older man with gray hair and a mustache.


    ¡°Hm? Murphy?¡±


    ¡°Miss Readman, the chief has requested an audience.¡±


    ¡°Oh, alright.¡± She nodded, before looking the other direction, ¡°Can I have breakfast first?¡±


    ~

 Flowery Iris part 2

    Felix laid flat on the ground and gazed through the rifle¡¯s scope, focusing on the mark of the target at the farthest edge of the training field.


    Bang ¡ª A sharp sound echoed across the range, kicking up a small cloud of dust as he hit a near perfect shot on the target.


    ¡°That red power that he used to break Marie¡¯s door¡­¡± He mumbled to himself as a dry dust cloud lifted.


    Two images flashed in his mind, one of his sister, Luna, the other, the silhouette of a large man with a mechanical arm.


    ¡°But¡­ their eyes were red¡­¡±


    He recollected his previous interaction with the old professor, the memories still very fresh in his mind.


    ¡°I thought the Implementation was shut down?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Merely postponed, but it resumed last year after receiving funding. Hence why I have been gone for so long. We have just went through another batch.¡± The professor answered.


    After reflecting on the memory, he looked at his target, focusing on the red center that he already riddled with holes, and thought about the visitor¡¯s eyes. The redness of it.


    ¡°Wait¡­ Could the professor have made another breakthrough?¡± He muttered curiously while reloading the rifle.


    There were footsteps walking from behind him as he pulled the trigger once again.


    As he fired another near perfect shot, he spoke, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to come to the field just to visit me. Perfect timing, Professor.¡±


    Behind him, a familiar, scruffy voice answered, ¡°But, of course. Unless I have to walk through a war zone, there is no reason not to see you when I have the time. I heard that you had an encounter with an Elite Agent.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Professor Tetsuya scratched his beard, ¡°So, how was your first real battle?¡±


    ¡°Did you not read my report?¡±


    ¡°Not yet, though I would like to hear it directly from you while I can. It was against Harbinger, correct?¡±


    ¡°Well, he was just the slightest bit harder than my spars with sis.¡± Felix scoffed.


    ¡°I heard he was a skilled agent before disappearing. One could compare him to the top ten. But seeing as you were working with young Maria, I would hope that it wasn¡¯t so bad.¡± The professor scratched his beard.


    If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°You have a lot of faith in her, she must be one of your better results.¡±


    With a low grumble, the professor admitted, ¡°Truth be told, I was not the one to oversee her batch, so I do not know how well the process went. I have not known her for very long, either. I¡¯ve only known her for about a week before you met her.¡±


    ¡°Ah, so you don¡¯t get your hands dirty with every little thing?¡±


    The old man looked hurt by his petulant remark.


    As Felix reloaded the gun, he added, ¡°If I had to tell you, that girl is definitely something else.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Maria is not the only successful one as of late, there are a number of new recruits from the other organizations who have successfully gone through the process based on my research.¡±


    He fired ¡ª another bullseye, ¡°So I was right¡­ the two from earlier...¡±


    ¡°Two from earlier?¡±


    ¡°There were two people from this morning¡­ a blond guy¡­ and a white-haired girl. Both of them had red eyes. That wouldn¡¯t happen to be them, would it?¡±


    As he remembered the white-haired girl, his memory quickly flashed to Luna¡¯s smiling face.


    ¡°I¡¯m not certain who you¡¯re referring to. There have been others trying to replicate Project ASTRAEA, so I believe there should be more than two. But if one of them had white hair, then that means the research was going smoothly.¡±


    ¡°More than two, huh?¡±


    ¡°Indeed, though lamentably, none of said projects have resulted in something of your caliber yet.¡±


    ¡°Aw¡­ you¡¯re making me blush, professor.¡± The cold, dark metal pressed against the young man¡¯s cheek as he squeezed the trigger.


    With a loud crack ¡ª another bullseye.


    ¡°For now, just be considerate to young Maria, the way Luna was to you.¡±


    He recollected the events from earlier this morning, and remembered Maria¡¯s expression clearly. A teary, angry expression.


    ¡°¡­ I thought I was.¡± Felix answered with a confused, downtrodden tone.


    ¡°My, did something happen?¡±


    ¡°I was trying to imitate Luna, but Marie didn¡¯t seem to like that. She wouldn¡¯t even talk to me...¡±


    ¡°Then clearly you should apologize. See things eye to eye.¡±


    ¡°Sigh, now¡¯s¡­ not a good time. I¡¯ll let her cool down before I do.¡±


    ¡°I would like to help, but I¡¯m still rather occupied. I simply wanted to meet with you, but now I have to¡ª¡±


    ¡°Wait, eyes¡­¡± Felix stood up, ¡°I actually had a question about my eyes.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes. Your blue eye. As I¡¯ve told you before, I will make the time to explain to you when the rest are¡ª¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t read the report yet, right?¡± He cut the old man off, ¡°Both of my eyes turned blue for a little bit during the mission, and apparently did earlier today, but¡­ it doesn¡¯t last for too long.¡±


    ¡°So it¡¯s made it to that point.¡± The old man¡¯s voice carried a hint of satisfaction, ¡°It won¡¯t take long for your abilities to fully develop. I will make it so that I can explain it to all of you at the same time.¡±


    ¡°Ah, right.¡±


    The professor smiled warmly, ¡°Be glad. You¡¯re starting to be more like Luna now.¡±


    Felix scratched his rosy red cheeks before quickly turning to the side to hide it, ¡°R-right.¡±


    ¡°I will see you when I can Felix.¡±


    ¡°Before you go, I had one more question¡­¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Do my eyes¡­ do they look like flowers?¡±


    ¡°Light travels outwardly from your pupils to the rest of your iris, so I suppose you could put it that way.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ Yeah, that makes sense.¡±


    ¡°If that is all, then¡­¡±


    ¡°See ya, professor.¡±


    After the professor had left, Felix pulled out the four-leaf clover necklace under his shirt and smiled. ¡°She said I was in Blue Mode earlier. If I can make the power work on instinct, then¡­¡±


    He breathed in deeply, the scent of gunpowder and dry earth filling his nose.


    Both of his eyes started to glow bright blue as his finger pressed against the trigger, firing one last round with a wide grin on his face ¡ª and missed.


    ¡°Bollocks.¡±


    ~

 Flowery Iris part 3

    Deep in the chrome narrow hallways of the base, Murphy opened up the door to a dimly lit room, where there was only one chair and an obsidian glass table with a glowing red dot.


    ¡°This will be your station, miss Maria.¡± The old man announced.


    The dark-haired woman stepped inside, feeling the frigid chill of the air, accompanied by the low rumble of the air conditioner.


    ¡°What is this e-sports looking training room?¡± She scoffed, scanning the almost empty room, ¡°What happened to working alongside the analytics division? Why do I have a personal station?¡±


    ¡°The Director thought you might appreciate the privacy. Of course, if it¡¯s not to your liking, you¡¯re allowed to refuse and return to Analytics.¡±


    She sat down on the leathery chair and dragged herself closer to the table. She pressed on the red dot, and with a soft hum, several holographic screens popped up from the table, each displaying a collage of faces, events, and disasters.


    ¡°Hm¡­¡± She placed her finger on one of the faces on the tabs. As she pulled it out, a new screen split off from it. She then gestured with her fingers, creating four more projections.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    With her thumb pressed against her chin, she tilted her head. ¡°Oh my¡­¡±


    The old man placed a dark red folder atop table, ¡°Here is what the Chief wants you to look over.¡±


    Maria opened up the folder in response and looked over the documents, flipping through the pages, she grinned, ¡°This is¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll leave you to it. If you¡¯ll excuse me.¡±


    ¡°Roger that.¡± She cheerfully waved, waiting for him to exit the room before getting started.


    As the door shut, Maria returned her attention to the screens and slowly typed, ¡°Felix Aster.¡± To which it projected the words, ¡°Access Denied.¡±


    ¡°Can¡¯t access the information to my own partner, huh?¡± She pouted. Her fingers hovered over the keyboard, thinking of what what else to search for, ¡°Then¡­ those two from earlier, he called her Isa, didn¡¯t he?¡± She mused and typed in the words ¡°Project ASTRAEA Isa.¡±


    Only to be met with a cold response, ¡°No Results Found.¡±


    ¡°Hm, weird.¡± She continued her search and looked up ¡°Agent Harbinger,¡± whose profile appeared with only the word ¡°REDACTED¡± popping up.


    ¡°I have access to the entire database of the twelve agencies and it can¡¯t even answer a single question.¡± She sighed and scratched her head. Her eyes narrowed, ¡°Then, how about¡­ The Fallen Sun incident¡­¡±


    The screen flickered, projecting another screen that listed down the countries, ¡°America,¡± ¡°Germany,¡± and ¡°Italy.¡±


    A smirk formed on her face.


    ~

 Flowery Iris part 4

    Rubber knives and wooden staves clanked on the floor while half a dozen people fell flat on their backs on the dark folding mats. One loud thump after another, the training ground slowly emptied, until there was only one last man stood up against Felix.


    Out of breath, an auburn-haired man spoke, ¡°Felix, come on. Everyone knows what you can do, so take it easy on us.¡±


    ¡°I was going easy on you. Any more and that would¡¯ve been an insult to you as a fighter.¡± Felix replied, trying to hide his smug grin.


    ¡°Heh, an insult is being repeatedly knocked down. You know if David was here, he¡¯d give you a taste of your own medicine.¡±


    Felix clenched his fist and forced out an irritated smile, ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be an ass, Felix.¡± The man grinned in annoyance as he wiped off his sweat and tried to calm his breathing.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who tried to hit a low-blow, Lance.¡± Felix shot back.


    ¡°Whatever it takes to win. Anyway, I¡¯m gonna hit the showers.¡±


    ¡°Good, you reek.¡± The blue-eyed man gestured fanning his smell away.


    As Felix¡¯s last sparring partner headed to the showers, he was left to clean up the training room alone. He strolled around, picking up the equipment. His eyes were drawn to the dents on the worn-out punching bag hanging in the center.


    He picked up a wooden staff and struck the punching bag playfully. Yet without a hint or notice, a familiar voice called out.


    ¡°What¡¯s this? So you do know how to socialize!¡±


    Sat atop a crate, Maria spoke, dressed in sparring clothes. Her legs swung back and forth, while a strawberry was popped between her confident, smirking lips.


    ¡°How long have you been there?¡±


    ¡°Long enough... I see the scratch on your face has healed up already.¡± She commented as she pointed to her own cheek.


    ¡°Is your head okay?¡±


    ¡°You calling me crazy?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not what ¡ª Sigh. Never mind, you seem okay to me.¡±


    ¡°Nothing leaves a scar on us, remember?¡±


    ¡°Right. Why are you here then? Weren¡¯t you mad at me?¡± Felix asked while putting back the weapons to the side of the room.


    ¡°Mhm¡­a little.¡±


    ¡°Sorry about earlier, it¡¯s just¡­ how my mentor used to wake me up, so I wasn¡¯t really thinking.¡± He admitted.


    ¡°Apology not accepted, you really should start thinking for yourself.¡±


    Felix scratched his cheek, ¡°Right. So what did the chief need you for?¡±


    ¡°Just tried to decrypt some files. It was a bit of a hassle. But enough about that, let¡¯s talk about you¡­ talking.¡±


    ¡°Lance is an old sparring buddy. And, well, I guess your silliness rubbed off on me.¡±


    ¡°Hoh? The stoic and somewhat sassy Felix telling an aspiring agent inspiring yet gentle words. Pretty out of character if you ask me.¡± She replied gleefully with wide gestures.


    ¡°Nobody asked you. Also, you¡¯re the only one who calls me those things.¡± He retorted as he continued to wipe the sweat from the back of his head.


    ¡°Cause I¡¯m the only one here who has the balls to do so. I¡¯m not particularly good at hand-to-hand combat, but how about it, wanna go for a round?¡± She confidently approached him with arms wide open.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°Thought you might wanna polish up a bit, I mean, after all¡­ Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to be the best?¡± She insisted as she picked up one of the fake knives from the table.


    ¡°Don¡¯t twist my words to your favor. Besides, your wounds might reopen.¡±


    ¡°All right then, I was told that you were a natural but had little to no experience. Was your first time really that scary for you?¡± She smirked, waving the rubber knife back and forth.


    ¡°You¡¯re still mad, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Take a wild guess!¡±


    Keeping her head low, she lunged for the first blow, quickly closing the distance between them. She struck with a right, a left, and followed with a straight kick, all of which Felix effortlessly blocked.


    She smirked. She raised her arms once more and threw an ax kick, which he once again dodged before preparing with a counter attack. He had his arm set back, but before his blow could land, his hand was stopped in the space between her head and his fist.


    A cold sweat dripped down Felix. It was almost as if he couldn¡¯t push forward or pull back his fist.


    His mismatched eyes widened as he noticed Maria¡¯s foot stomping on his. She smiled and hopped away. As soon as there was distance between them, he felt like he could move his arm again.


    Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Felix let out a light gasp and he brought back his guard, more cautious than before.


    She once again sprung forward.


    This time her strike was swift, direct and predictable. Felix dodged and prepared another counter, but his body suddenly stiffened to the point where even his fingers weighed a ton. The second strike followed. The knife in her hand twirled unpredictably. Something about it just moved the way she wanted it to.


    Felix raised his guard, but his arms felt locked in place. His eyes widened, and his right eye shined bright. With a burst of blue, he quickly bounced out of the way.


    After activating the power on command, a tinge of excitement ran through his veins.


    ¡°It¡¯s working¡­¡± He muttered in a small voice.


    But he couldn¡¯t even let out a sigh of relief. In the half-second he celebrated, Maria had once again closed the gap.


    As soon as they made contact with each other, he felt a familiar sensation under his skin. Like a sharp current coursed through his veins.


    Before he even realized it, he was already on the floor.


    She put all her weight to keep him while holding the knife against his throat. His mind suddenly exploded with rapid thoughts. He felt like a rat, caught and pinned down by a serpent.


    My body was¡­


    The first two strikes were a diversion to get me off balance. Her movements weren¡¯t bad, but they were amateurish, and easy to follow. Yet she knocked me down.


    She knocked me down, and I couldn¡¯t move. She knocked me down.


    I knew she was strong¡­ but this wasn¡¯t the same. Strength isn¡¯t the right word for what she did. She¡¯s¡­ I don¡¯t know how to describe it. It¡¯s almost like she cheated somehow.


    It¡¯s the same sensation I felt when I faced Luna¡­ and against David.


    The same power.


    Yet somehow, this was a million times worse. It wasn¡¯t a pressure forced upon me. It was creeping under my skin. Like my body became a prison from within.


    It was the same. But it was different. More than that¡­ where was it? Where was the light¡­ the energy?


    With a vibrant and satisfied smile on her face, Maria poked the tip of the knife on Felix¡¯s nose, ¡°Boop.¡±


    Never mind, I was still facing Marie after all.


    ¡°What just¡­ how did¡ª?¡± He said dumbfounded. The glow in his right eye faded.


    ¡°It didn¡¯t take much to knock you down a peg. Here I expected better from the Black Cat of Ruin.¡± She teased.


    ¡°I thought you were just a computer cracker. How did you do that?¡±


    ¡°¡­ There¡¯s a reason why I¡¯m an Elite Agent, y¡¯know?¡±


    ¡°Right, the Venom Vanguard... You didn¡¯t lace my coffee with poison, did you?¡± He scoffed.


    ¡°We all have our experiences. The world is an ocean, and I¡¯m the biggest fish there is.¡± The dark-haired girl brazenly boasted.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been trained by the best of them. I don¡¯t think a lack of experience was all there is to it.¡±


    She reached out her hand and lifted Felix up, ¡°Tell that to Harbinger.¡±


    ¡°That was¡­ different.¡±


    ¡°Sure, it was.¡± She placed her hands on her chin, ¡°Tell me, when you fought Harbinger, you went on all fours, and started fighting him like a wild animal. Why is that?¡±


    Felix¡¯s gaze shifted downward and gave it a few seconds of thought, but nothing came to mind and he answered, ¡°No idea.¡±


    ¡°Does it have anything to do with you being called Black Cat? Gonna have to investigate.¡± She muttered to herself, ¡°Anyways, you¡¯ll figure it out soon enough with Blue Mode, Mister Child of Stars.¡±


    As she uttered those words, he remembered the warm touch of the girl with crisp, red eyes, as well as her remark.


    ¡°Speaking of, does my eye look like a flower to you?¡±


    She turns her head toward him with a gaze full of disgust, ¡°If you¡¯re trying to make yourself look better, I¡¯m just gonna tell you that sounded really self-absorbed.¡±


    ¡°Ugh, I meant literally. It¡¯s something that white-haired girl said.¡±


    ¡°Just take a good long look in the mirror.¡±


    ¡°I just wanted a second opinion.¡±


    ¡°Sheesh, you really don¡¯t have a clue, do you?¡±


    ¡°Hm¡­ about what?¡±


    She stretched out her arms as she walked away, ¡°¡­How to flirt with a girl, idiot.¡±


    Felix looked at her with annoyance and defeat, but as she walked away, the training room doors opened.


    An agent with old gray hair and a black suit entered with a clipboard in hand, ¡°Sir Felix, the chief wanted to¡ª¡±


    Before the man could finish, Felix pointed his finger towards the agent¡¯s feet, ¡°No shoes in the training ground, Murphy.¡±


    ¡°I apologize, sir. I simply came to hand you your next assignment.¡± Murphy awkwardly responded as he took off his shoes and placed it at the side of the entrance.


    ¡°A mission?¡± Felix muttered as he went over the documents.


    ¡°Indeed, sir. You are to leave shortly.¡±


    ¡°Welp, my moods¡¯ ruined. Looks like we¡¯ll have to settle this another time.¡± Maria shrugged.


    ¡°You know we¡¯re gonna have a rematch someday.¡± Felix declared before following after her.


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    With the spar cut short, the two agents were immediately sent off to their next mission.


    *


    In a cramped, moist room with dimly lit red lights sat two figures. Above them hung a mesh work of leaking pipes, and staring rats that skittered through the shadows, and beneath them was the stained concrete floor full of dark puddles that echoed with every drop.


    ¡°So, which card is this?¡± Asked a young man with orange hair wearing a brown, fur-collared jacket. His voice sounded high with giddy excitement as he held up a card from the deck he was holding.


    ¡°Eight of Clubs.¡± Answered the older, sharply dressed man with blond hair, who wore sunglasses that reflected light from the smartphone in his hand.


    ¡°How do you keep doing that? You weren¡¯t even looking!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you get tired of¡ª¡±


    ¡°How about now!¡± The young man thrust another card at his face.


    ¡°Queen of hearts.¡±


    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t happen to be cheating, would you?¡± There was a hint of distrust in his voice.


    The blond man sighed, his expression was cold behind his sunglasses, ¡°Of course I am, you¡¯ll just never figure it out.¡±


    ¡°Ah, that so¡­¡± The orange-haired man¡¯s expression soured, and he started to shuffle the cards, the sound of cardboard slapping together filled the damp room, ¡°So Julius, has Harbinger answered yet?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been a week since I last heard from him. It¡¯s possible that he¡¯s been compromised.¡± The blond man dismissively responded as he put his phone down on the table, ¡°Here I thought he was one of the stronger ones.¡±


    ¡°Maybe someone stronger was in the way? Or maybe I didn¡¯t fill him up with enough steroids?¡± The orange-haired young man mused, his voice dripping with hostile glee.


    ¡°Any more drugs and you would have left him mentally impaired.¡±


    The young man pressed his back against the brown couch he sat on, making himself comfortable on the old, grimy leather, ¡°So, what now?¡±


    ¡°We continue moving forward. I¡¯ll have to find someone new. In the meantime, would you get rid of the freeloaders? Try not to leave a mess.¡± The older man said with a hint of exasperation.


    ¡°Right.¡± The orange-haired young man walked over to the room behind him, one that was not lit, and was in near total darkness.


    ¡°Please¡­ don¡¯t hurt me¡­¡± A woman with dark hair pleaded, her body shivered while her heart raced.


    ¡°Sorry, miss. But your husband has failed and is probably dead, and unfortunately, rent is due.¡± The young man cocked the gun.


    ¡°Wait, please! I¡¯ll do anything you want!¡± She cried out.


    ¡°Okay then! I¡¯ll spare your life, if you answer this one question.¡± He smiled brightly and pulled out a deck from his back pocket, and picked out a card, ¡°Which card is this?¡±


    ¡°K-King of Hearts?¡± Tears blurred her vision, and she closed her eyes.


    He flipped the card in his hand, revealing a red joker, ¡°Wrong answer.¡±


    An unfortunate sound echoed in the dark room.


    He then looked at the rest of the cards and added, ¡°Well, you wouldn¡¯t have gotten it anyway.¡± All the cards in his hands were red jokers.


    ~

 Rattling Vermillion part 1

    Chapter 4


    Rattling Vermillion


    The waves swayed gently against the harbor as the skies were a soft, pastel color of pinks and purples. Amidst the spaces of the yellow metal beams of the tower crane were two figures, Felix and Maria, watching from afar as a breeze brushed against them. Their eyes focused on a black car.


    ¡°Can you see him?¡± Felix asked her.


    ¡°I think so. The one in the middle of the car, right?¡± Maria responded as she looked through a pair of binoculars, her legs swaying back and forth.


    ¡°Most likely.¡±


    ¡°Pretty ballsy being out in the open like this.¡± She said as she got up.


    ¡°He¡¯s probably confident that he can get himself bailed out again.¡±


    As they conversed, a figure stood watching them from a faraway roof. Patiently watching them through binoculars with auburn brown hair tied to a pony-tail.


    ¡°So that¡¯s Felix Aster and his partner, Venom Vanguard. So including him, Nero and Isabelle, that makes...¡± He muttered before looking down to the black car on the ground, ¡°¡­and their target, Lewis Shaw.¡±


    The pony-tailed man continued to watch them from afar, his gaze was glued to the two operatives. ¡°Show me what you can do, Blue Phantom.¡±


    ¡°So, what¡¯s the plan?¡± Maria asked, the soft breeze swaying her hair.


    ¡°According to the intel, he has four bodyguards, but we could expect at least twenty of them at their meetup. We scatter them, take out the guards one by¡ª¡± His mouth was promptly muffled by Maria¡¯s finger before he could finish.


    ¡°Shh¡­¡± She mumbled and glanced around.


    ¡°What is she doing?¡± The brown-haired man mumbled as he monitored the two¡¯s movements.


    Her eyes turned to look at the rooftop from afar, where the pony-tailed man sat and watched, only to find no one there.


    ¡°Is someone there?¡± Asked Felix as he also looked over to where she was focused on.


    ¡°Not sure¡­ Must¡¯ve been the wind.¡± She shrugged.


    The man sighed in relief as he dangled on a chain tied to the side of the wall. A cold sweat slowly dripped down lower than the small scar under his lips.


    ¡°Scheisse, she noticed me from here?¡± He nervously mumbled as he cautiously climbed back up, his cream brown trench coat swaying in the draft between the buildings.


    However, when he returned his gaze, the two partners had already left from their initial positions.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t grappling hooks fun?¡± The dark-haired woman smirked.


    ¡°You¡¯re moving too quickly. Don¡¯t get too far ahead.¡± The blue-eyed man cautioned.


    They swung from one beam to the next with their grappling hooks. Landing on top of metal crates, stopping to hide, then swinging again, quietly closing in on their targets in a pattern to make sure they weren¡¯t noticed.


    When the black car stopped near one of the warehouses, Felix let go of the grappling hook and vanished into the shadows, yet Maria kept moving onward.


    The car doors opened, and a man in a violet tuxedo stepped out, accompanied by four others in black suits. Beside him however was a man in a black coat, with a face obscured by a green visor.


    ¡°That must be Lewis. But the one beside him looks like ¡ªV.V., don¡¯t get too close!¡± Felix whispered to the transceiver.


    Maria nonchalantly smiled, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be f¡ª!¡± As she slammed against the metal beam, the loud gong echoed throughout the loading bay.


    Lewis Shaw and his men turned their heads to look for what caused the loud slam, and brought out their guns.


    ¡°Great, now they¡¯re on guard.¡± Felix ranted as he dragged a stunned Maria by the collar behind the wall.


    ¡°Head hurty¡­¡± Maria blurted out as she clutched her head.


    The pony-tailed man from the distance continued to watch as the criminal walked towards one of the warehouses with a briefcase in hand.


    Another person opened the warehouse doors from inside, a young man dressed in a leather jacket with orange-hair, and a distinctive black star tattoo on his right cheek stepped out, also carrying a briefcase.


    Lewis conversed with the orange-haired man inside, their attention was drawn to where the two operatives hid.


    ¡°What is this? Who do you have up there?!¡± Lewis grabbed the orange-haired man¡¯s collar.


    The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°No one, no one!¡± The orange-haired man snapped his finger, ¡°Men! All arms ready!¡±


    The visored man walked forward to where the noise was and pulled out a pistol, aiming it towards the many large steel beams hanging above. ¡°Stay behind me, sir.¡± He said to the man in the tuxedo.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it, those two¡­¡± A cold-sweat dripped across the cheek of the pony-tailed man as he watched the two agents.


    A gunshot suddenly rang loud across the harbor.


    ¡°¡­are idiots.¡± He concluded to himself as he put down the binoculars and pinched the bridge of his nose with disappointment.


    His hands clutched the chain wrapped around his arm, ¡°Can they catch him? Or should I...¡± He pondered to himself whether he should intervene in their mission.


    ¡°What is wrong with you?! We had the element of surprise¡ª¡± Felix angrily yelled out.


    ¡°Not the time!¡± Maria replied.


    The two quickly rushed behind the steel shipping container with gasping breaths.


    A shootout quickly began as the two agents found themselves trapped behind the steel cargo. The grating sound of bullets carving into the metal crates, concentrated on their location.


    ¡°We almost had him! Instead, you shot them and alerted their entire group!¡± Felix yelled as he fired at the henchmen on the left side of the crate.


    ¡°Shut your word-hole right now!¡± She replied from the right side, as she flung a knife straight at one of the goon¡¯s forehead, killing the man instantly.


    A magazine dropped from Felix¡¯s pistol and clattered to the concrete, and he swiftly pulled out a new one from inside his coat. As soon as reloaded his gun, he peered his gaze to the edge of the metal crate and resumed firing.


    ¡°I¡¯m almost out of ammo.¡±


    ¡°You have an energy gun! Use it!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s an energy gun, its effective range is five meters!¡± He replied as he managed to take out one of the men, ¡°Come in, mission control. We¡¯re pinned down, requesting back-up.¡±


    The transceiver sparked, ¡°¡ªBack up is¡ª¡±


    ¡°Why doesn¡¯t technology ever work in my hands?¡± He pouted as a bullet struck the metal crate, making a loud gong right beside his ear.


    ¡°What now?!¡± She yelled.


    His mismatched eyes narrowed as he thought about what to do, ¡°Split up, lead them around, take them out one by one.¡±


    He then looked back and continued to fire off a few more rounds, striking another goon down, ¡°You go this way, I¡¯ll go that way.¡±


    ¡°Excuse me, I¡¯m not the one wearing a bullet-proof¡ª¡± Just as those words escaped her lips, a stray projectile, a broken bullet shard, bounced off one of the metal crates, and sliced the side of her cheek.


    ¡°Shit!¡± She yelled as she covered her now bleeding face.


    ¡°V.V.! Are you¡ª?!¡± His worried words were cut short, as the thick sound of rolling metal could be heard moving on the concrete beside them. Felix¡¯s expression turned to stunned horror as a grenade was a few feet from the crate they hid behind.


    He drew his pistol and aimed at it, but as he pulled the trigger, all he heard was a hollow click.


    Felix¡¯s gaze locked on Maria, who was kneeling in pain right beside him. A few feet ahead was a explosive that was about to blow.


    In that split moment, he remembered the sensation of her blood dripping on his face. The vivid memory of her bleeding face hanging just above his.


    He threw the gun at the grenade to create some distance and pulled in Maria close, shielding her from the blast.


    The grenade flew a few feet away just before exploding.


    Maria watched Felix¡¯s face contorted with pain as the metal can turned into a tapestry of red and white flames bursting behind him.


    ¡°G-grk!¡± He growled out as he took the brunt of the explosion.


    ¡°You alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Didn¡¯t you say¡­ urgh! That nothing leaves a scar on us?¡± He forced out a smile and wiped the blood from her cheek. While the coat protected him from the shrapnel, the impact still weighed on him. ¡°Now go!¡±


    ¡°... Right.¡± She nodded.


    Felix staggered as he got back up. With his back aching and his pitch-black coat left tattered, he pressed forward.


    The two agents headed toward different directions, moving from one steel cargo to the next.


    Near the warehouse, the orange-haired man spoke from behind Lewis, ¡°I¡¯ve held up my end of the bargain. You deal with this.¡±


    ¡°Moritz, where are you going¡ª?!¡± As Lewis turned around, however, the young man¡¯s body scattered decks of French-suited playing cards and scattered into the air and quickly dissipated into nothingness.


    ¡°What the hell?!¡± Lewis scowled and yelled, ¡°Men! Kill whoever¡¯s there!¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡± Their pursuers moved slowly and cautiously.


    Frustrated, the blond mob boss scratched his head.


    The steel crane creaked with the whistle of the wind while the agents sat in wait, listening to the steps of their enemies. When the unfortunate goon got too close in the web of shadows, they were easy prey for the agents to feast on.


    Felix moved under and over in the cloak of darkness, striking his prey with his silent gun, contrasted to the wailing and agony on Maria¡¯s end.


    Lewis¡¯ men fired recklessly and randomly, hitting nothing.


    ¡°Shhh, go to sleep.¡± Felix dropped down from behind the crate and whispered as he kept his prey silent, covering the man¡¯s mouths as he fired his gun from behind.


    As the man lost consciousness, he leaned against the metal crate with ragged breaths, ¡°That was for my back.¡±


    ¡°What the¡­ What¡¯s going on¡ª?¡± The criminal stuttered in shock, stationed beside him was the visored man, who was holding a pistol in each hand.


    One by one, his men fell, either swiftly and silently by Felix¡¯s hands, or with a blood-curdling scream by Maria¡¯s.


    The sun began to sink down the horizon, while its light slipped through empty spaces between the large metal crates like prison bars. It grew more and more quiet as his men fell, until the silence was broken by the echoes of the two agent¡¯s voices.


    ¡°I thought Cocytus was supposed to be one of the toughest prisons on Earth?¡± Maria¡¯s disappointed voice haunted the docks.


    ¡°Apparently, he slipped out of custody before he could be brought there.¡± Felix¡¯s voice reverberated through the metal crates.


    Their echoing voices filled the air, taunting him.


    The loading bay felt smaller, more claustrophobic as the two shadows crept closer, dancing in the dusk. There was nowhere for him to run, as all exits lead to the darkness.


    ¡°Show yourselves!¡± The mob yelled out viciously, intimidated by their silent laughter.


    A body was flung from behind one of the crates, and fell next to Lewis and the visored man.


    ¡°B-boss¡­¡± It was one of his men, whimpering on the cold concrete.


    ¡°What are you doing, get up and protect me!¡± Lewis yelled, enraged and scared, yet stubborn.


    ¡°Lewis Shaw. We demand your immediate surrender.¡± Felix exclaimed from the shadows.


    ¡°I demand you suck my dick!¡± Lewis snarked as he signaled the rest of his men to go check.


    In the shadows, Maria declared to Felix from the transceiver, ¡°Yup, I¡¯m going to kill him.¡±


    ¡°Easy, girl.¡± Felix sighed, his arms pressed against the cold metal surface in order to stay upright.


    ¡°Sir, with all due respect, they threw one of our men several feet into the air!¡± One of them protested, who suddenly found his vision slowly sliding downwards, until it spiraled downwards.


    The remaining men were frightened by the sight, as in one swift motion, the visored man sliced the defiant one¡¯s head off, ¡°Worthless men. If you do not die to the two spies, then you will die by my hand instead.¡± He declared as he sheathed back his katana.


    ~

 Rattling Vermillion part 2

    ¡°Worthless men. If you do not die to the two spies, then you will die by my hand instead.¡± The visored man declared as he sheathed back his katana.


    Even his employer was unnerved by what he did, but responded. But Lewis, trying to save face, loudly ordered,¡°Th-that¡¯s right! Now go find and kill them!¡±


    They all reluctantly complied and searched through the labyrinth of crates and cargo.


    The sounds of their struggles reverberated through the steel corridors, often ending by the sound of his bodies dropping to the ground. His men were all picked off one-by-one. With his back close to the wall, Lewis reached into his inner pockets and pulled out his own pistol, forced to act on his own.


    Maria showed herself, on her arm was the unconscious body of his last henchmen, as she dropped him to the ground for Lewis to see personally. On her other arm, the briefcase of the other man who was trading with him.


    As she dropped the body, she let out a peppy exhale, ¡°Phew.¡±


    ¡°It appears we¡¯re up against the Twelve Agencies, sir.¡± The last of Lewis¡¯s employ, the visored man, grinned and pointed his gun towards Maria.


    Felix grabbed one of the unconscious men¡¯s guns and aimed from the spaces between. Without hesitation, he cocked his gun and fired at the two men, but the visored man responded by pulling Lewis¡¯s head down.


    The man jumped back as Felix¡¯s shots struck the ground.


    Maria then slithered from the darkness and swung her knife at the visored man, but he slid underneath her attack and grabbed her arm, throwing her towards where Felix was firing.


    Felix ceased his attack, and Maria leapt to his side.


    ¡°This guy¡¯s a tough nut.¡± She remarked as Felix walked out from the shadows between the large metal cranes.


    ¡°He knew where I was firing from¡­¡± Felix remarked as he gazed at his opponent ¡°That insignia¡­¡± , commenting on the mark on the visored man¡¯s outfit. A green fire trapped in a diamond. ¡°A Cinderash.¡±


    Lewis took a step back, pulling the briefcase closer to his chest, but as he walked away slowly, he felt the cold metal press against his back. ¡°That¡¯s right, bitch boys. I have a professional assassin working for me. Your lives are as good as over!¡±


    A wave of intimidation shot through the two agent¡¯s bodies as the visored man took a single step forward.


    ¡°Bloodlust¡­¡± Felix¡¯s eyes narrowed, ¡°V.V., get behind me.¡±


    ¡°You think I¡¯m intimidated by some little assassin? Bring the whole Cinderash clan for all I care, I¡¯ll kill them all!¡± She boasted.


    ¡°Come on, then!¡± The visored assassin of the Cinderash clan yelled out with an excited grin.


    He began shooting at Felix, who dashed away, avoiding the bullets and firing back using the energy gun, Ion.


    Transparent, concentric waves of energy struck the assassin¡¯s arms, he suddenly felt numbed and struggled to move his hand.


    Lewis ran through the crates behind him with the briefcase in his arms.


    If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    ¡°What kind of weapon is that?¡± The Cinderash assassin shuddered as a feeling of numbness crept into his arms.


    ¡°V.V., just capture Lewis!¡± Felix yelled out as he kicked the Cinderash against the cold steel wall. The visored man groaned and aimed at Felix once again.


    The bullet grazed against the top of his blue eye. He pressed his hand against the aching wound, only to be kicked down by the assassin.


    A battle between the two gunslingers ensued. Exchanging shot after shot in close proximity, while evading each other¡¯s blows. But one was equipped to kill, while the other could only incapacitate.


    He can keep up with me. Am I too weak... or is this just the level of a true professional?


    Either way, he¡¯s not just a fool with guns. But still¡­ he¡¯s weaker than Harbinger.


    And if he¡¯s weaker than Harbinger, then I can beat him, I can¡ª!


    ¡°GRAHG!¡ª¡±


    Spit scattered into the air as the assassin buried his foot into the agent¡¯s gut with enough intensity to fling him towards the metal wall. The sharp pain from the explosion earlier radiated throughout his back.


    ¡°Wh-what?¡± The blue-eyed agent wiped his chin, grumbling as he shakily got back up.


    A whirring sound coming from the visored man¡¯s legs.


    He grinned and lifted the cuff of his pants, showing a chrome, mechanical leg hidden beneath.


    ¡°Combat prosthetics. Makes my kicks more explosive.¡±


    ¡°Military grade exoskeleton, the Cinderash specialty.¡± The blue-eyed agent huffed as he smugly retorted.


    ¡°Well-informed, I see. I was hoping to have some fun, so I didn¡¯t want to use it, but since you¡¯re stronger than I expected, it¡¯s time I stopped holding back.¡±


    Felix spat at the ground and lifted his gun, ready for round two.


    Through the steel corridors, Lewis frantically ran in search of a way out, holding the briefcase tightly. But as he stopped to catch his breath, he felt a finger tapping on his shoulder.


    He turned around and aimed his gun haphazardly, but a voice from behind whispered in his ear, ¡°No escape.¡±


    As soon as he turned around, he saw no one there.


    The dark-haired woman slithered back into the corridors, playing with her food.


    His breath turned ragged as he grew frightened. A drop of sweat slid down his cheek as he once again started running.


    But before he could get anywhere, she made him trip and fall with a swift leg sweep from beneath him.


    She squatted down in front of him with both her palms on her face. From the ground, he looked up and saw her with a wide, wry smile, like a predator playing with its prey.


    He slowly got back up, and so did Maria.


    ¡°Hands in the air.¡± She sweetly stated.


    Lewis slowly raised his hands in response, only to reveal in his hand a stun grenade. With a bright burst of light, he grabbed the briefcase and made his escape.


    Blinded by the flash, Maria shielded her eyes and pulled out her grappling hook, ¡°No, you don¡¯t!¡±


    As she fired, Lewis quickly pulled out a stun gun and struck the wire. The agent let out a sharp scream as the electricity surged through the grappling hook.


    Lewis watched as his pursuer fell to the ground, before resuming his escape with a relieved grin.


    ¡°Marie!¡± Felix yelled out, still in the middle of his own battle.


    He avoided the visored man¡¯s explosive kicks that dented the metal crates, but his movements were sloppy. The strain from the explosion earlier took its toll on his back and gradually got worse as their battle progressed.


    But as he aimed his gun to counter, his opponent kicked his hands upwards, and then spin kicked him into the metal crates. Felix fell to his knees.


    ¡°You were good, kid.¡± The visored man aimed his gun at Felix¡¯s head, ¡°But worrying over your partner, and getting distracted¡­ What a rookie mistake.¡±


    But before he pulled the trigger, a blue outline formed around the agent¡¯s body.


    ¡°What the hell?¡± The visored man mumbled out in an alarmed manner.


    Like a coiled spring, Felix sprung towards him.


    The assassin aimed frantically, only to realize his gun was pointed at a blue silhouette. The agent had maneuvered under him and kicked his firearm into the sky.


    In a last-ditch effort, he threw in a powerful kick at the agent, and the agent responded in kind.


    The machine let out a deafening whir as it revved up, gradually getting louder as they pushed each other further. But Felix¡¯s expression intensified with rage, and a stream of blue electricity crackled around his leg.


    With a loud snap and a burst of blue light, the exoskeleton fractured and shattered into black shards in the air, leaving the assassin stunned. Before he could completely comprehend what was happening, Felix followed with a spin kick that sent him slamming against the metal crate.


    The assassin¡¯s body grumbled, aching in the steel crater.


    Felix stood proudly on his feet and let out an excited smile, ¡°It worked¡­¡± The blue glow around his body had dissipated.


    ~

 Rattling Vermillion part 3

    Felix stood proudly on his feet and let out an excited smile, ¡°It worked¡­¡± The blue glow around his body had dissipated.


    The visor had split in two, and the other fell, revealing the assassin¡¯s green eye. With a pained and shocked expression, he looked up and asked, ¡°What¡­ the hell¡­ was that¡­?¡±


    ¡°You were good, but I expected better from a Cinderash.¡± He answered as he shot him with his gun. Three translucent, concentric rings went through the assassin, incapacitating him.


    He then looked ahead, and went to look for his partner, where he found her huddled on the cold concrete.


    As he raced to her side, he lifted her up, ¡°Marie¡­ are you alright?¡±


    ¡°Do I look alright?¡±


    ¡°Good point, I¡¯ll call¡ª¡± As he was about to press into his earpiece, she clutched his arm, ¡°What are you doing? Get Lewis!¡±


    ¡°But¡ª¡±


    ¡°Go!¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Barely able to stand, the injuries he sustained from the explosion reared its head, but Felix pushed himself back up. He planted his feet so he wouldn¡¯t fall over.


    A thin layer of blue light formed around his legs.


    He took one step forward, and burst straight ahead ¡ª leaving behind blue sparks.


    But the light around his body burst, scattering blue particles into the air like a firework while his body was shot uncontrollably forward before bouncing across the ground and crashing into the steel wall.


    Maria could not help but chuckle in between each pained groan.


    ¡°Idiot.¡± She laughed under her breath.


    Lewis turned his head after hearing the metal bang behind him.


    The harbor hummed with the rhythmic waves on the shoreline. Each one echoing in unison with every grunt he took to get back on his feet.


    ¡°Come on, I need you to work one more time...¡± His body started glowing once again, dimming and rising with each uneven breath.


    Lewis took a few steps back to peek, and saw his pursuer was too close for comfort and was glowing.


    ¡°That useless bodyguard failed! What kind of parents raised such useless a piece of shit! Waste of my fucking money!¡± He grumbled silently, before shutting himself up as the agent glancing in his general direction.


    He placed his hand over his mouth and held the briefcase close to his chest.


    With anger fueling him, Felix got back up and took a deep inhale. His blood started to boil, the azure particles coursing through his veins started to shine brighter, creating a blue outline of him.


    As his whole body radiated, a thin, spherical blue fire crackled around his body. He shot forward once again, leaving behind an exact blue afterimage of himself.


    He made it to the corner in the blink of an eye, and saw Lewis Shaw from the edge of his peripheral vision.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    The criminal appeared to run incredibly slowly from his perspective. He felt the wind brushing against his skin, and heard the whistle in his ear. He saw the cracks of dried paint and the bits of rust on the metal cargo. His senses were in overdrive.


    Despite this, he was still unable to control his body. He could not stop. As soon as his foot landed on the ground, the rest of his body shot forward.


    With another loud crash, and the light surrounding him exploded into countless particles.


    The criminal instinctively looked back and saw the blue-eyed agent make a beeline straight into another shipping container, shot forward by his own strange power.


    Stunned and stuck on the shipping container¡¯s metal dent, Felix¡¯s mouth was left agape.


    The only thing that moved him was the gentle shore breeze that swayed his hair ever so slightly, and the blood pouring down from his nose, splattering on the ground.


    Seeing his pursuer slam himself deep into the metal walls, Lewis could not help but let out a laugh.


    ¡°¡ªLewis¡­¡±


    It was weak, but as soon as he heard the hoarse voice call out his name, the criminal tensed up. Still in danger, he promptly withdrew.


    ¡°... Shaw.¡± The agent dragged himself out of the crater and fell flat on his back. In his disoriented state, he stared at the sky, watching the pastel clouds move.


    As the clouds shifted, they revealed the crescent light hiding behind it.


    Seeing the moon, Felix pulled out the four-leaf clover necklace from underneath his shirt, and his fingers let out a blue spark.


    ¡°I won¡¯t¡­ let you escape¡­¡± He breathed in and got back up on his feet, barely able stay on his feet. As he toppled over, he shifted his movement and went on all fours like a wild animal.


    A blue electricity crackling around his body as he crouched, arching his back like a panther ready to pounce. But before he could, something metallic fell in front of him.


    His gaze followed the object and saw a black metal rod clatter a few feet ahead of him.


    ¡°Oh¡­BOLLO¡ª!!¡±


    Before he could even finish shouting, the stun grenade exploded.


    Blinding light and deafening sound overwhelmed him. A grin formed on the brown-haired man¡¯s face, watching from between the steel crates. ¡°Sorry about this, Felix, but enhanced human means enhanced senses, right? That must mean double the damage. Seeing you in action was¡­ educational.¡±


    Lewis quietly ran between alleys with weighted breaths as he constantly kept looking back.


    With his back pressed against the red brick wall, he noticed that the back entrance to one of the old, rusty warehouses was wide open. He slowly walked inside, checking his surroundings. Old wooden crates and cardboard boxes stacked upon one another, covered in nets and decorated with dust.


    The criminal walked closer into the middle of the room and let out a relieved sigh, only to hear the door shut behind him. He gulped and took out the gun in his suit.


    ¡°Lewis Shaw.¡± An unknown voice spoke his name, echoing throughout the entire warehouse.


    ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± Lewis aimed his gun towards the place he entered.


    He cautiously walked backwards, but quickly turned as he heard the clanking sound of wood behind him. His breathing grew heavier, and a bead of sweat dripped down his face.


    ¡°Otherwise known as the Prison¡¯s Houdini... or at least, that¡¯s what you want to be called, right?¡±


    ¡°Where are you?¡± Lewis yelled in anger and anxiety.


    ¡°Two counts of human trafficking and several counts of drug smuggling.¡± Echoed from above him. The faint clatter of metal started to fill the silence.


    ¡°Show yourself!¡±


    Lewis yelled in frustration and aimed at the ceiling. Only for a chain to dangle from above and around his hand.


    ¡°Huh¡ª w-what the fuck?!¡± He dropped the briefcase on the concrete, and a tuft of dust scattered while he tried to get the chains off with his other hand.


    There was a figure standing in the shadows, ¡°Are you afraid? Your henchmen have been taken out one after the other, and now you¡¯re alone.... It¡¯s just you and me.¡±


    ¡°Who the fuck are you?!¡± Lewis yelled while he was struggling.


    From the shadows walked out the man with auburn brown hair, with glowing red eyes piercing the darkness, ¡°Call me Vermillion.¡±


    Chains rattled as it suddenly shot Lewis into the air.


    ¡°Huh? HAUGH!!!¡± The criminal¡¯s screams echoed from the warehouse.


    Still recovering from the flashbang, Felix faintly heard Lewis¡¯s scream, and limped towards the warehouse where he was hiding.


    But when he made it inside, he found their target hanging from the roof and wrapped in chains. His lips were covered in duct tape as he mumbled about.


    Felix upped his guard as he walked closer towards him, only to see that there was a note stuck to his body that said, ¡°Vermillion ¨C Frontier Industries.¡±


    The chains creaked slowly as Lewis swung back and forth angrily, but unable to escape.


    Felix¡¯s blue eye radiated against the shadows as he looked around, but there was no one left besides them.


    ~

 Rattling Vermillion part 4

    The two returned shortly after handing off the criminal. While Felix was still in the middle of writing his report, the chief¡¯s assistant, Murphy, had stood waiting for their arrival. The two agents were told to head the chief¡¯s office as soon as possible.


    ¡°Another mission already?¡± Maria grumbled as she opened the door, carrying a bandaged Felix over her shoulder. Her tone was restless and exhausted. But the scratch on her cheek was already close to fully recovering.


    ¡°Marie, I said I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°And the doctor said your jacket isn¡¯t designed for blocking explosives.¡±


    He laughed and turned his head over to the chief¡¯s assistant. ¡°Ugh¡­ Murphy, could you make me a coffee?¡±


    Maria gently let him down and voiced out her own request, ¡°Soda for me.¡±


    ¡°I wanted to inform you that after your recon mission in Beijing, the higher ups thought about promoting both of you. I have no confirmation of this, however, due to your current failure, that may be postponed.¡±


    Felix spoke, ¡°We failed to retrieve the package; I¡¯m surprised it wasn¡¯t canceled altogether.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have enough information yet, however, I was informed that we retrieved the package.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know myself.¡±


    ¡°Did it come from Frontier Industries? Because there was this note. Lewis said he was captured before he could see what happened, but under him was this letter with Frontier¡¯s seal on it. It¡¯s signed by ¡°Vermillion.¡± Does it ring a bell?¡± Felix showed the chief the letter.


    ¡°I could do a quick search.¡± The chief answered as she went to her computer, ¡°I can¡¯t find anything on the records, however, though there is a recently admitted Crimson¡ª¡± The chief stopped, as if to prevent her chuckle from slipping out.


    Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°Crimson?¡± Maria raised her eyebrow.


    ¡°Don¡¯t mind it. According to the database, there is no one registered as ¡®Vermillion.¡¯¡± The chief answered.


    ¡°I see. That¡¯s strange.¡± Felix remarked.


    ¡°What was in the package, anyway?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Illegally manufactured plutonium-239.¡±


    ¡°What, were they making a nuclear bomb?¡± Maria scoffed.


    ¡°That or they were harnessing nuclear energy.¡±


    ¡°What about Julius, do you have anything on him?¡± Felix added to the conversation.


    ¡°We¡¯re working on it, but a single name isn¡¯t much to go by. We could¡¯ve had a better lead if only a certain someone hadn¡¯t killed Harbinger.¡± The chief turned her gaze toward the other agent in the room.


    Maria looked upwards with an air-headed expression and replied, ¡°Hm?¡±


    ¡°Agent Harbinger wasn¡¯t known for his computer skills. Be that as it may, the fact remains that his corpse was left behind in the Dragon of the Little Sun, along with his gear and other possessions that belonged to the agency¡­ More specifically, he apparently had something known as the Matrix Key.¡±


    ¡°Matrix Key?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°A valuable piece of stolen technology. One that can automatically unlock any digital data, developed by one of the agencies. And it was likely left on his person.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ shit.¡± Maria blurted out.


    ¡°We have reason to believe that said key is something the Jackal is after. We cannot let him retrieve it.¡± The chief gave the two agents folders and documents as she told them, ¡°Your mission is to retrieve the key before anyone is able to make use of it. Mission is active at sixteen hundred hours, tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± Felix answered.


    ¡°Weird, last time we only had a couple hours to prepare.¡± Maria remarked.


    ¡°Last time was a special case. Thankfully this time, the robins got us some intel, which will give you ample time to prepare. Any questions?¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah, um¡­ you wouldn¡¯t happen to know of a blond guy and a white-haired girl, would you? They both had red eyes. We ran into them earlier, they kinda¡ª¡±


    ¡°Broke my door. Can I have that repaired?¡± Maria cut to the point.


    ¡°Ah yes, I can¡¯t tell you any details, but the both of them will surprise you with how similar they are to you two.¡± The chief smirked.


    Maria raised her eyebrow and bluntly asked, ¡°Are they also enhanced humans?¡±


    The chief lost her smile and took a puff from her cigarette and gazed at the ceiling of her office, ignoring Maria¡¯s question.


    ¡°Skip the foreplay, they¡¯re enhanced humans, aren¡¯t they?¡± She cheekily added.


    ¡°How did you¡ª¡±


    ¡°It was hard to see due to the sunlight, but their eyes were glowing. It wasn¡¯t hard to put two and two together.¡±


    ¡°Damn it, Maria!¡± The chief angrily shoved the two agents out of her office.


    With documents in hand, the two agents were left standing at the door outside the chief¡¯s office. Felix glanced over Maria, ¡°Guess I was right on the money.¡±


    To which he replied with a shrug.


    ~

 The Woman in Copper part 1

    Chapter 5


    The Woman in Copper


    The faint sound of thunder roared in the distance as a cold wind swept through the city. The rain patiently brewing in the sky.


    Several people lifted signs of protest and repeated chants while police sirens deafeningly echoed.


    Felix stood on the top of a building as the breeze billowed briskly in the night. He watched through the rifle¡¯s scope as a hooded man got up from a diner¡¯s table and walked away. He pressed on his earpiece and mumbled, ¡°He¡¯s on the move.¡±


    The diner¡¯s door opened with a jingle and let out a faint golden glow as Maria walked out, wearing a face mask and dressed in black jacket with a pizza print on its center.


    With a hop in her step, she quickly rushed forward and set her eyes on a hooded man who was walking into a thick parade of people. It was clear that the hooded man was bald, and there was a barcode on top of his left eye where his eyebrow should be.


    ¡°V.V, come in. Do you read me?¡± Felix asked through an earpiece while he watched Maria move through the parades of people pushing against her.


    ¡°I¡¯m here, but I can¡¯t get too close. It¡¯s too¡­ people-y.¡±


    ¡°I told you I should¡¯ve gone with you.¡±


    ¡°And I told you your back is still healing.¡± She paused to sigh, before continuing, ¡°What¡¯s even happening here?¡±


    ¡°The protesters refuse to submit to their new president.¡± He answered as he looked at the writing on the protest signs. ¡°The refugees refuse to give up their freedom.¡±


    ¡°Will war break loose here, too?¡±


    ¡°Who knows. The Director hates war¡­ so it¡¯ll be our job to prevent it from happening.¡±


    ¡°So, whose death is necessary to protect the peace?¡±


    Felix remained silent and unwilling to answer her question.


    ¡°Hmph.¡± She scoffed. ¡°Do you have visual on the target?¡±


    ¡°I do. Forty, forty five, right ahead of you.¡±


    ¡°Well¡­?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t exactly just shoot him.¡±


    ¡°Why not? There¡¯s a huge protest. It could literally be blamed as stray fire by the police.¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t need unnecessary casualties. Besides, what are you gonna do, grab the key from his corpse in the middle of the streets?¡±


    ¡°Yes?¡±


    ¡°Marie¡­¡±


    ¡°Well, can¡¯t you do anything? Is there a code for this situation, something in the manual?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember. I wasn¡¯t exactly the brightest person, I only really knew how to fight.¡±


    ¡°And yet you¡¯re not even good at tha¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shut your word-hole. Do you remember anything?¡± Felix¡¯s blue eye twitched.


    ¡°Funny you ask¡­no.¡±


    ¡°Then just try to get him somewhere secluded.¡±


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    As the two conversed through a wire, the barcoded man she shadowed sped up his pace.


    ¡°Yeah, pretty sure the guy has noticed my presence.¡± Maria reported as she quickened her pace. ¡°You could always shoot at him.¡±


    ¡°We just need the key; we don¡¯t need to cause a panic.¡±


    ¡°Maybe a panic is what we need.¡± She replied coldly.


    ¡°And risk getting on the chief¡¯s nerves? Sure, if we weren¡¯t the ones causing¡ª¡±


    While the two of them bickered, a line of white light pierced through a building from the distance and into the dark skies, followed by the explosion from within the same building.


    Screams quickly filled the air as the crowds grew chaotic with fear. But while the two agents were distracted by the explosion, their hooded target sprinted through the panic.


    ¡°What was that?¡± Felix mumbled.


    ¡°You tell me, you¡¯re the one with the scope.¡± Maria responded as she struggled against the hordes of panicking people.


    ¡°Something definitely exploded.¡± He remarked.


    ¡°Thanks, Sherlock. Do you still have a visual on the target?¡±


    Felix looked back through the scope and scoured once again for their target, ¡°Where did he¡ª?¡±


    ¡°He might¡¯ve gone into one of the buildings. Check the windows.¡± Maria said as she sprinted ahead.


    Felix searched into the further buildings, glancing through every door and window and between the dozens of heads running opposite Maria¡¯s direction. Until he saw the target running into an underground path, ¡°There he is, headed to the parking lot ahead of you. No visual inside, exercise caution.¡±


    ¡°Got it.¡± She quickly sprinted ahead to the indoor parking lot, but inside, she found several armed guards surrounding her target.


    ¡°Oh¡­ fuck.¡± She muttered before jumping behind the pillar.


    ¡°V.V, come in.¡± Felix heard loud static noise, followed by silence, ¡°Marie!¡± Felix got up, but as he took a step on the ledge to head down to her.


    Static filled his earpiece, and a voice called out; ¡°HQ to Blue Phantom, we picked up a disturbance up North, status report?¡±


    Felix glanced at the fire from a distance and replied, ¡°Blue Phantom to HQ, there was an explosion about ten blocks North from here, in a building by the pier.¡±


    ¡°Survey the situation. Capture anyone suspicious. Evacuate and assist any wounded and seek potential witnesses.¡±


    His mismatched eyes moved back to the sight of the flames ¡°But sir, what if it were a diversion? And what about¡ª¡±


    ¡°Agent Blue Phantom, I¡¯m not asking for your input. Just follow orders.¡±


    ¡°... Understood.¡±


    As he heeded the words from headquarters, Maria found herself in the midst of a small group of armed men. Five in total, who met with her target.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Venom Vanguard isn¡¯t an Elite Agent for nothing.¡± Headquarters remarked.


    Felix¡¯s eyes sharpened with focus, ¡°Understood.¡± He pulled out a grappling hook and swung above the buildings and rushed towards the pillar of smoke.


    From within the parking lot, one of the armed men asked, ¡°Do you have it?¡± He was a tall, gray-haired old man who appeared to be the leader of the group.


    ¡°I do.¡± Answered the barcoded man as he presented a small black chip on his palm, from it came out a holographic projection of random strings of numbers and letters.


    ¡°Good.¡±


    Maria watched from the corner of her eye with an agape mouth. She had found what she was after, when all of the sudden, the leader of the men yelled out, ¡°Who¡¯s there?!¡±


    Without letting out a peep, she was caught.


    ¡°Is that our client?¡±


    A gunshot struck the floor next to the pillar Maria hid behind. She gave a good long look at the cracked concrete next to her, and realized that a small section of her shadow gave away her position.


    ¡°That was a warning shot! Show yourself, now!¡± The man yelled, his eyes narrowed, and his brows furrowed. There was an uneasiness in his gruff voice.


    A feeling of agitation spread among the men. It was a nervousness that was sorely lacking in Maria¡¯s face, who had an expression that was a mixture of both boredom and mild annoyance.


    She gave out a rough sigh and cracked her neck. Her steps echoed as she walked out the pillar.


    One step.


    ¡°It¡¯s not the clown¡­¡± Their leader whispered.


    Another step.


    ¡°Wait, that woman¡­¡± The barcoded man uttered.


    And another step.


    ¡°That¡¯s the woman who was tailing me this whole time!¡± He exclaimed.


    In that instant, several semi-automatic rifles were pointed straight at her head.


    With one final step, the echoes ceased, and she was in full view. Maria had fully captured the men¡¯s attention. The darkness in her shadow contrasted against the bright lights above, and the gray radiance that bounced off the concrete.


    ¡°Identify yourself!¡± The gray-haired old man yelled with a shaky breath.


    She let out a cold laughter as she stood in front of them unarmed.


    Her eyes then sharpened, and a wave of fear passed through their bodies and caused the hair on their arms to stand. For a moment, all of them felt paralyzed by the unnerving sensation. It was as if a giant serpent had been staring down at them.


    ¡°This is¡­ killing intent? Men, fire¡ª!¡± Before he could instruct his men to pull the trigger, Maria had launched her knife directly at his throat, the cold steel pierced through his flesh and buried into his jugular.


    They all looked at him as he collapsed to the ground, squelching gurgles came from his mouth as he choked on his own blood.


    A shower of deafening gunfire followed, drowning out the screams that came soon after.


    ~

 The Woman in Copper part 2

    Rusty red metal groaned as Felix¡¯s iron boots landed atop a grimy old fire exit, on the roof of the building near his destination. Directly in front of him was the burning warehouse where he was supposed to go.


    Bits of rust fell as he descended, waves of intense heat brushed against his face with every step he took. The red flames and smoke towering over him.


    When he made it halfway through the creaking staircase, a luminous white streak blasted through the warehouse.


    He watched the glowing beam pierce through the smoke and cinder and rift apart the rain clouds forming above.


    He pressed into his earpiece once more; ¡°Sir, there appears to be a beam of light tearing through the buildings.¡± He remarked as the line of light reflected in his blue iris.


    ¡°You mean like a laser?¡± They asked.


    ¡°Yes siiiiir¡ª!¡± The beam descended towards him like a sword swung downwards, slicing off a portion of the brickwork, as well as the staircase he was standing on.


    Felix leapt out of the staircase before it could collapse, and quickly grabbed onto the leaky old pipes of the building beside him.


    He watched as the staircase crashed down with a loud groan, and saw the beam dissipating into white particles, leaving behind a charred black line on the brickwork.


    He let out a sigh of relief, only for a loud creak to return his sense of urgency. The old pipes could not handle his sudden weight, and the rusty old screws snapped off, leaving him to tumble down.


    ¡°... Bollocks¡­¡± He said, resigning to his fate.


    He fell straight down with the pipe falling on his chest.


    ¡°Blue Phantom, what¡¯s the situation?¡± The voice on his earpiece suddenly spoke.


    He groaned in a deep pain as he arched his back against the sharp, jagged rubble, ¡°Sir¡­ may I¡­ urgh¡­ request assistance¡­¡±


    Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    The Chief¡¯s voice then interjected, saying, ¡°I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t do that. There appears to be an agent already present inside who requested assistance. You are that assistance, and we cannot lose face.¡±


    ¡°R-right¡­¡±


    ¡°Emergency teams and first responders take too long to get there. Put a stop to what¡¯s happening, and assist the operative inside before they get here.¡±


    ¡°Understood, sir.¡± He answered as he slowly crawled back up.


    ¡°Hurgh! Marie was right, my back¡¯s still not healed yet.¡± He groaned and spoke in an aching, gravely voice, ¡°Oh, I think it might be worse than before.¡±


    ¡°Mister, are you alright?¡± A voice asked from behind.


    Felix¡¯s eyes widened as he quickly turned to look behind, ¡°A civilian?¡± He blurted out as he saw the young man in a green jacket.


    ¡°That was a hard fall, I should call the ambulance.¡± The young man asked as he pulled up a phone.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m fine. Can you tell me what happened here?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°Then can you help me get over there?¡±


    ¡°But¡­ that¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s on fire? Shouldn¡¯t we wait for the fire department?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no time¡­ If I don¡¯t get in there, someone might die.¡±


    ¡°You called me a civilian. Who¡­ or what are you?¡± He asked nervously as he helped Felix get back up.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter, all you have to do is get me close enough. after that, you should get out of here.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t do that.¡±


    ¡°Hmph?¡± Felix mumbled curiously.


    ¡°I¡¯m scared¡­ someone I know might be there.¡±


    ¡°Then just get me close enough and wait¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah, alright¡± The young man nodded.


    ¡°For me to be getting help from a civilian¡­ How pathetic can I get?¡± Felix muttered to himself in a low voice as he was assisted to walk towards the building. ¡°Hopefully Marie¡¯s having a better time than I am¡­¡±


    *


    Silhouettes danced against bright lights as Maria slaughtered the men inside with a single combat knife. Her face covered in blood as she mowed down her enemies one by one with delighted laughter, swiftly slicing their necks open.


    The deafening noise of car alarms and gunfire filled up underground parking.


    Her target, the barcoded man, hid behind the armed men, quite a distance away from her, ¡°What are you?!¡±


    She slid under one of the men¡¯s legs and quickly threw her knife against the back of his head, then quickly rolled over the concrete and hid behind a pillar while a barrage of bullets fired towards her.


    Her breathing turned sharp and ragged as she clutched her lower abdomen. Blood covered her palms, ¡°Shhhhhit. That stings.¡±


    She ducked as bullets started to tear through the pillar she hid behind, ¡°Hopefully Felix is doing better right now.¡±


    Maria pulled out another knife from her thigh and leapt out the other side of the pillar, racing towards her barcoded target.


    ¡°FUCK!¡± The barcoded man quickly retreated while the group of armed men kept firing at her.


    ¡°Get back here and give me the key!¡± She yelled, several bullets grazing at her skin.


    ~

 The Woman in Copper part 3

    Hot air burst out the warehouse as Felix stretched out his arms, crackles of blue electricity flowed out his body, ¡°Looks like I¡¯m all healed up for now.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re going in there, are you nuts?! What are you?! Are you a robot?!¡± The young man frantically asked, confused to see Felix up and about after watching him crash into the rubble earlier.


    ¡°Hey¡­ the person you¡¯re looking for in there¡­ who is it?¡± Felix asked.


    The young man clutched on his own arm, ¡°Oh, um¡­ he¡¯s someone who works here.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t narrow it down. If it¡¯s someone important to you, it¡¯s in your best interest to tell me who he is.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s my uncle.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re going in there, then can you find him? Can you save him? He¡¯s my only family left.¡±


    Felix looked at him and remembered the voice of a silver-haired lady with orange eyes, ¡°From now on, yer me brother. We¡¯re a family now.¡±


    Another fire burst out of the building, grabbing both of their attention, ¡°I¡¯ll try, but let¡¯s see if he¡¯s alive first.¡± He nodded reassuringly as he walked closer toward the burning entrance.


    He pulled out a worn-out mask and he put it on before heading into the burning factory. Sparks floated towards him as he walked into the burning building.


    The agent cautiously navigated through the smoke and between the crates and burning wooden boxes, but as he placed his hands on one of them, he noticed the markings behind the ash. The smoke was thick and hot, and both the concrete floors and steel beams were littered with shards and other materials.


    He wiped off the soot and saw the logo of a black bird surrounded by stars. ¡°Cygnus Enterprise.¡± He muttered to himself. The deeper inside, he found blood leaking under some of the rubble. His stomach churned as glimpses of his memories resurfaced. A familiar, fiery sight. But he pressed forward, searching for survivors.


    A loud crashing noise caught his attention.


    As he peeked between the many cascading metal crates that surrounded the area, he saw an old man in a worker uniform standing against a figure in a copper-brown, mechanical suit.


    In the old man¡¯s arms was a large, pipe-like weapon, shaped similarly to a cannon, and covered with a glassy circuit pattern.


    ¡°You¡¯re making this far too difficult. You see this thing¡¯s power, don¡¯t you?¡± The man threatened as he aimed his weapon.


    ¡°You haven¡¯t been very good at wielding it.¡± A feminine voice came out of the armored figure.


    ¡°Mouthy one, aren¡¯t you? Just give me the suit so I won¡¯t have to kill you.¡± The old man activated the weapon and it made a high-pitched noise as its circuitry lit up.


    The armored figure rushed up towards the old man with a raised fist, but before she could land the blow, it fired ¨C a beam of light burst from the weapon.


    The armored figure raised their guard, but their body was tossed against the wooden crates.


    ¡°What the hell is that?¡± Felix thought to himself.


    ¡°Wh-why are you doing this¡­?¡± The armored woman asked weakly.


    ¡°Because¡­your armor will finally free me from debt.¡± He answered.


    The old man fired another beam, slamming her deeper into the concrete. ¡°It will give me a fortune¡­¡±


    He fired again, ¡°I¡¯ll finally be able to give my family the life they deserve!¡±


    ¡°From now on, yer me brother. We¡¯re a family now.¡± The voice echoed once again in Felix¡¯s head. He backed away slowly, but as he did, debris fell beside him, and he let out a startled gasp.


    ¡°Huh? Is someone there?¡± The old man glanced around before approaching where Felix was.


    He fired the weapon once again; the white beam tore through the steel crates.


    ¡°Argh!¡± He yelled. The weapon started to sizzle, and electricity formed and crackled from it. The black barrel began to burn him, and he dropped it to the ground. ¡°Blasted prototype.¡±


    He pulled out a pistol and aimed at the armored woman, ¡°Show yourself or I kill her!¡±


    If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    There was no response.


    The old man fired twice at the armored woman¡¯s head. Her head drooped down as walls cracked, and the debris fell on top of her.


    Carefully, the old man picked up the weapon again and looked around.


    Felix kept his hand over his mouth to keep his breath steady. He extended his hand forward with a focused glare.


    ¡°C¡¯mon¡­ work.¡± He muttered under his breath.


    He felt his veins pulsate as heat traveled down from his shoulder, to his wrist, and out of his palm. His black glove started to glow with a thin blue outline. With a crackle from his hand, a shining blue haze formed from the nothingness, amorphous and transparent, swirling in his hand.


    A bead of sweat rolled down his cheek and onto the hand that covered it. There was a muffled excitement that escaped his lips, but he kept his attention on the weapon.


    With a determined gaze, he kept his aim solely on the weapon. He waited with a stare as a small blue whirlpool spun in his palm.


    All the rocks around his body slowly rose up in the air.


    Five seconds passed ¡ª But nothing happened.


    Or rather, not the way he wanted it to happen.


    His concentration broke to take in breath, and the spiraling blue shroud dispersed, and disappeared into ephemeral dots.


    All the rocks suspended in the air stopped glowing, and immediately dropped back down.


    The clatter of stones and debris quickly caught the old man¡¯s attention, and quickly approached where it came from.


    As he got closer, he spotted a black cloak and a white mask between the smoke. The old man leapt and fired ¨C another beam burst from the machine, destroying both the cloak and burning a portion of the pale mask, and leaving molten red iron and smoke.


    But no one was there.


    ¡°What the¡ª?¡± The old man muttered out.


    The cannon began to spark and crackle, and he instinctively dropped it from the shock. A faint smoke emanated from the circuitry. ¡°Damned thing¡¯s already busted.¡±


    The old man dropped the weapon and aimed his pistol once again. ¡°Now¡­ where are you?¡±


    There was another clatter from behind him, and the man quickly turned around, ¡°Hah, got ya!¡±


    Blood spilled with a bang.


    There was a bright flash from the skies, and with the loud boom of thunder, the lights in the warehouse followed. Only fires from debris were left to light the darkness.


    The man felt something warm trickle down his own forearm. The man¡¯s grip loosened as he felt the hole in his hand, ¡°AHGHK!!¡±


    As he clutched his bleeding arm, his expression turned to dread as he saw cold blue eyes stare at him from the distance.


    He quickly made a break for the exit, gasping achingly through the fires and debris.


    The cold winds greeted him as he made it outside, along with the sight of a young man rubbing his aching forehead.


    ¡°U-uncle, is everything alr¡ª¡±


    ¡°What? What are you doing here?¡± The old man asked in confusion.


    ¡°I was looking for, huh?¡± The young man looked at the building¡¯s entrance and saw a shrouded figure with glowing blue eyes.


    Felix pointed his gun toward their direction.


    The young man yelled out; ¡°Wait, no!¡±


    The sky roared with a strike of lightning ¨C and the man fell to the ground.


    ¡°Uncle? Uncle!¡± The young man put his arms around the old man as he cried out against Felix, ¡°Murderer! I thought you were supposed to help people!¡±


    The only sound was the pitter patter of the rain against the cold concrete.


    Felix lowered his arm and said, ¡°You¡¯d best get out of here.¡±


    ¡°Not without my uncle.¡± The young man clutched his uncle¡¯s arm.


    Felix placed his hand on his hip and sighed, ¡°You can relax. He¡¯s not dead.¡±


    ¡°Wh-what?¡±


    ¡°My gun doesn¡¯t kill people. It¡¯s only meant to incapacitate them. But the wound in his arm will kill him if he doesn¡¯t get treated.¡±


    ¡°Then, my uncle¡ª¡±


    ¡°Will be taken in for questioning.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The young man¡¯s voice was shaken.


    ¡°Your uncle isn¡¯t a civilian, he was the cause of the destruction here.¡±


    ¡°What? How? What¡¯s going to happen to him?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, kid. What happens to him isn¡¯t up to me. A team is already on its way here, if you stay any longer, you¡¯ll be suspected and taken in.¡±


    The young man clutched his uncle¡¯s arm, but before he could even move, Felix spoke, ¡°If you try to take him away, I will consider you an enemy.¡±


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t let him die¡­ I don¡¯t want to lose another family member.¡±


    Felix nodded, ¡°Go.¡±


    The young man put down his uncle¡¯s arm and hesitantly stood-up, his shirt covered in the man¡¯s blood. The rainwater drizzled all over their heads.


    With a frightened and frustrated expression, he ran, leaving behind his uncle.


    ¡°Murderer, huh?¡± Felix spoke with a soft voice, the blue in his other eye faded. He then pressed into his earpiece once again, ¡°Marie, do you copy?¡±


    ¡°A little busy at the moment!¡± Maria sharply replied as the sounds of bullets could be heard, all while a voice could be heard yelling out, ¡°Get the fuck away from me!¡±


    There was clearly a shoot-out on her end.


    ¡°DIE, FUCKING MONSTER!¡±


    ¡°Call you back.¡± She said, an explosion could be heard just before she ended transmission.


    ¡°What was that about?¡± He blurted out in bewilderment after the transmission ended before breaking out a slight smile.


    Felix returned to the factory and slowly approached where the armored woman lay with a cold indifferent stare.


    He then went and picked up his mask, and traced its tears with his thumb, before closing his eyes and placing it behind him, as if to accept the loss.


    His eyes quickly opened, however, as he heard a soft whimper.


    He rushed towards the woman in the brown, copper-like armor and took off her helmet. The woman went into a violent fit of cough. Between her chestnut brown bangs was a deep-red bruise on her in the middle of her forehead.


    ¡°Sorry. I thought I had to call in the Ravens to come clean you up¡­ HERCULES armors are tougher than I expected.¡± Felix mumbled out as he dug into his pocket and pulled out a small bottle marked with a medical cross.


    ¡°Who¡­ are you?¡± She wearily asked. Her eyes were a bright shade of copper.


    ¡°Blue Phantom from the Golden Lion. I take it you¡¯re from Cygnus Enterprise?¡± He said as he flashed his badge.


    ¡°Agent¡­ CT-2¡­¡±


    ¡°Swallow this painkiller. It¡¯s not much, but it¡¯ll at least numb the pain until we can get you to a hospital.¡± Felix said as he placed a pill in her mouth. He then pressed into his earpiece ¡°Blue Phantom to HQ, I¡¯ve made contact with CT-2 of Cygnus Enterprise. She is currently in critical condition.¡±


    ¡°Th-thank¡­¡±


    ¡°Save your breath. The medical team should be on their way.¡±


    He wrapped the weapon around his back using his torn black cloak, and he then put her in his arms.


    ¡°Argh, my back!¡± He grunted out as he struggled to lift her up.


    The crackling fire slowly was drowned out by the pouring rain.


    He looked up to the hole in the roof and muttered to himself, ¡°I need some coffee¡­¡±


    ~

 The Woman in Copper part 4

    Felix sat down on the bench. The air was cold and sterile, and the light was sharp and white. In his hand held dearly a torn white mask, while his black trench coat folded beside him, hiding the massive hole in its upper torso. Through the windows of the patient¡¯s room as he watched the injured agent slowly recover. The only sound was the slow beeping of the heart monitor.


    As the door on the corridor opened, a familiar voice broke the silence, ¡°What¡¯s with the long face?¡±


    ¡°Did you get the key?¡± Felix asked in a lowly tone.


    ¡°Mission was a success, so care to tell me why you look so melodramatic? Did something happen to your back?¡± She commented, looking down on his lowered head.


    ¡°Murderer¡­¡± He squeezed the torn, broken mask between his fingers.


    There was a brief pause as Maria looked to the side as she noticed the woman sleeping on the other side of it. ¡°Did she call you that?¡±


    ¡°It wasn¡¯t her¡­ and it¡¯s not the first time¡­¡± He looked at her with a smirk.


    ¡°But¡­ it still hurts?¡± She asked understandingly.


    ¡°¡­ Yeah.¡±


    Maria¡¯s eyes lowered as her expression softened, ¡°That thing in your hands¡­ Can¡¯t believe you kept that.¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah¡­ I¡¯ll keep it until I get replaced.¡±


    ¡°Replaced, huh? Well, gimme it.¡± She took the mask from his hands.


    ¡°Look.¡± She put the mask on his face and explained, ¡°When you put on this mask, you become the Blue Phantom. An agent doing your job. Don¡¯t think about repercussions, just know that you have to kill.¡± She then took it off and continued, ¡°But when you take it off, you¡¯re just¡­ you. Okay? Not a murderer, nor an assassin. That¡¯s not you. At least, not the way I see you. Understand?¡±


    ¡°Then, what about the people I¡¯ve killed¡­ before becoming this Phantom?¡±


    ¡°Well, instead of carrying that weight on your shoulders, we¡¯ll just have to blame it on the Blue Phantom.¡±


    This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡°Hm¡­¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re all hiding behind masks, you just more literal than others.¡± She jested.


    ¡°Right, I suppose.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ is that really what¡¯s bothering you?¡± She asked as she watched him force out a despondent smile.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± He asked.


    ¡°Come on¡­¡±


    ¡°Well¡­ there¡¯s...¡±


    The young man¡¯s words echoed in his ears, ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose another family member.¡±


    Felix remembered the gentle smile of a white-haired woman in the snow, ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ll figure it out on my own.¡±


    ¡°You can rely on me, y¡¯know.¡±


    ¡°I know. I¡¯ll ask you when I get it sorted.¡±


    Maria smiled in response, then pointed toward the window, ¡°So, care to tell me who she is?¡±


    ¡°Agent CT-2 from Cygnus Enterprise.¡±


    ¡°Oh? The one from Project HERCULES? I think I read something from her file once. She¡¯s one of Cygnus Enterprise¡¯s Advanced Armor users if I remember correctly.¡±


    ¡°Why did you have her file?¡± His eyebrows curled.


    ¡°Would you believe me if I said it had something to do with my hacking skills?¡±


    Felix looked at her with an exasperated expression, while she shot back with a smug grin.


    He returned his gaze to the patient¡¯s room, however, the sight of a syringe lying on the table suddenly made him feel ill. Maria took notice of his sudden discomfort and let out a wide grin,


    ¡°Still afraid of needles?¡± She muttered with a confidence-destroying scoff


    ¡°Mhm¡­So, about the key?¡± He quickly dismissed.


    ¡°Here. To be honest, it was actually easier to get without you around.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Hm, reasons¡­¡±


    ¡°How many did you kill?¡±


    Ignoring the question, she opened her palm, revealing the small black chip. From it, a holographic, light-blue sphere is projected, crafted with circulating lines of letters and digits.


    ¡°So then, what¡¯s it for?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t make out its data the way that it is. But it¡¯s called a key, so it has to open something.¡±


    ¡°And you¡¯re sure this is it? We don¡¯t want to make the same mistake twice...¡±


    ¡°Just because you¡¯re bad with tech, doesn¡¯t mean I am.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m not saying that. I¡¯m just saying, what if it¡¯s a fake?¡±


    ¡°If it were, it shouldn¡¯t have had a three-tier encryption lock¡­ It would¡¯ve been too elaborate a prank for the Little Sun to guard so heavily.¡±


    ¡°Then what about the suspect?¡± He sighed.


    ¡°Taken care of. Permanently.¡±


    Felix¡¯s mismatched eyes widened, ¡°You¡­ you were supposed to take him in for questioning.¡±


    ¡°¡­There was a struggle, okay?¡±


    ¡°What is wrong with you?¡±


    ¡°A great, many things.¡± She answered.


    Suddenly, he smiled and whispered to himself, ¡°And to think I¡¯m the one who got called a murderer¡­¡±


    ¡°Hey, that still kinda hurts, y¡¯know¡­¡± She replied with an unfettered smile.


    ¡°Right, sorry¡­I guess it¡¯s time to head back.¡±


    ¡°Way ahead of you.¡± She said as she already headed out the door.


    Felix got up and then approached the window wall and placed his palm on it. On his face was a worried expression as she watched the brown-haired woman breathe weakly.


    After grabbing his things, he walked toward the door. But before his hand could reach the knob, he heard a faint voice speak, ¡°Thank¡­ you.¡± The woman muttered out weakly.


    He looked back again and smiled, ¡°You¡¯re welcome. Get better soon.¡±


    ~

 Just As Suddenly… part 1

    Chapter 6


    Just As Suddenly¡­


    Steps echoed through the pale, metallic halls as Felix headed once again to the chief¡¯s office alone. As he walked along every other person moved to the side to greet him, yet he continued ahead without pause or a thought. But though he was clearly distracted, his ears picked up on the sound of strings being strum.


    He was met with one pair that were walking from the opposite direction.


    A young woman humming to herself as she played the guitar, and the young man behind her, pulling on her hair as he pleaded for her to stop.


    ¡°Come on, you¡¯re disturbing everyone.¡± The young man said. But the young, orange haired woman continued to play nonetheless, her head bobbing back and forth as he tugged on her frizzy orange hair. Her eyes completely closed.


    Felix raised his eyebrow and put his hand on his hip, waiting for the two to pass by.


    As they crossed paths, the young man, who was taller than Felix, gave a short bow, and apologized in a passive manner, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for her sir.¡± To which the blue-eyed agent simply nodded, understanding what it¡¯s like because of his own partner.


    But as he was about to take a step forward, the girl screamed, ¡°AHH!¡±


    Curious, and somewhat annoyed, Felix turned around as the girl rushed towards him, ¡°You!¡± She pointed her finger at his face.


    ¡°Hm?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re Felix Aster! Black Cat! I didn¡¯t expect you to be here! I thought you¡¯d be out on missions!¡± She excitedly yelled.


    Felix looked annoyed for a moment, but his expression softened as he noticed that on her freckled face, were mismatched eyes. One a simple dark brown, and the other, a glowing bright crimson.


    ¡°Actually, it¡¯s Blue Phantom, now.¡± He responded.


    ¡°Right! I heard about that, I¡¯m sorry sir Blue Phantom, sir!¡± Her smile revealed the small gap between her two front teeth.


    ¡°You said sir, twice.¡± The man beside her whispered.


    ¡°New recruits, I take it?¡±


    ¡°My name is Kaitlin McCay, sir! Code name, Agent Carrot! This here beside me is Rico Bryce! The two of us are Enhanced humans from Batch Delta! And also we¡¯re big fans!¡±


    ¡°I see. Thanks.¡± He flashed the two a gentle smile as he scratched his cheek.


    ¡°Can I have your autograph?!¡± She screamed.


    His gentle smile turned into an awkward one as he answered, ¡°Uh, I guess¡­¡±


    With a bright red face, the girl slapped the Rico¡¯s chest repeatedly as she squealed, ¡°Rico, a pen, give me a pen. Now. Right now!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have a pen.¡±


    ¡°Mhmmm!¡± She squealed in a disappointed manner, ¡°I¡­ can¡¯t get your autograph.¡±


    Felix snapped his finger and replied, ¡°Next time we meet, bring a pen instead of a guitar. Then I might be able to sign something for you.¡±


    ¡°Yes!¡± She nodded her head rapidly, ¡°Hope that we meet again soon! Please, take my guitar as a gift!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d¡­ rather not.¡±


    She leaned in too close for Felix¡¯s comfort, ¡°Why not?! Do you hate the guitar?!¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s just¡­ There¡¯s only one instrument I play, and it¡¯s not the guitar. But, I¡¯d rather listen to you play it someday¡­ just not today.¡±


    ¡°I will practice hard and make you proud!¡± She saluted him. ¡°Come along, Rico! We mustn¡¯t keep the professor waiting!¡± She excitedly strolled on.


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who stopped¡­¡± Rico mumbled to himself as he started walking behind her.


    Felix raised his eyebrow, ¡°What was that about?¡±


    The young man then stopped in his tracks and faced the blue-eyed agent, ¡°Considering that you saved our lives, it¡¯s a little understandable that she¡¯d be excited.¡± He smiled.


    ¡°When did I do that?¡±


    ¡°Not you, to be exact. But the research on you. It¡¯s thanks to you that we were able to make full recoveries from things that... well, you get the picture.¡±


    An old memory flashed in Felix¡¯s head, one where Luna smiled. Her voice still echoing in his soul. ¡°¡­There was a breakthrough in their research, and thanks to your DNA, I¡¯m a lot like you now. You¡¯re not alone anymore.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I do¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad I got to see you as well, mister Felix. I hope that one day, the two of us will be able to join your team.¡± Rico looked at him, his own eyes were a simple copper, and did not glow with the same flowery iris both Felix and Kaitlin possessed.


    ¡°Is that so? You better do your best, then.¡±


    ¡°Of course, sir. I hope to see you soon.¡± He bowed, then chased after the orange-haired woman.


    When Felix made it to the chief¡¯s office, he knocked, ¡°Permission to enter.¡±


    ¡°Granted.¡± The chief responded.


    As he went inside, he found the chief sat in front of her desk with a somber look on her face.


    ¡°Chief, I saw two new faces earlier.¡± He said as he closed the door behind him and stroke the skin beneath his blue eye, ¡°One of them¡­ had different colored eyes.¡±


    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    ¡°Ah yes. Rico and Kaitlin. The two of them recently underwent the implementation, so they¡¯re currently under observation while the professors run routine tests.¡±


    ¡°Sounds familiar. So why was I summoned here? Do I have my next mission?¡± He asked.


    ¡°You¡¯re rather eager. Before that¡­¡± The chief walked up to Felix, closing onto him at an uncomfortable distance, ¡°Did your eyes really turn blue?¡±


    ¡±Yes, I believe that was in my report during the reconnaissance.¡±


    ¡°I may have glossed over that part.¡±


    ¡°You just¡­ glossed over my report?¡±


    ¡°I just didn¡¯t get to read it properly back then. Just what the hell did they put in you to make your eyes glow in the dark anyway?¡± The chief sighed as she walked back to her desk.


    ¡°You tell me¡­ You¡¯re the one with the information.¡± Felix shrugged.


    ¡°Back in my day, we didn¡¯t have that kind of body altering drugs or cybernetic enhancements. We relied solely on our own wit and our weapons¡ª¡±


    ¡°Chief, you¡¯ve told me this story enough times.¡±


    ¡°And I¡¯ll keep telling you about it until I¡¯m satisfied.¡± The chief responded as she lit up her cigarette.


    ¡°About the last mission, the girl in the armor, um¡­ Agent CT-2¡­¡±


    ¡°Carol Thomas wasn¡¯t as ¡°critically wounded¡± as you said she was. Her armor took most of the damage, but she¡¯ll probably still be hospitalized for another week. Thanks to you, Cygnus now owes us a favor for securing their tech and keeping one of their agents alive.¡±


    ¡°So her name was Carol? I¡¯m glad she¡¯s alright. And any survivors?¡± Felix sighed with relief.


    ¡°None. Everyone in the factory was found dead, save for the one you caught.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± He answered with a blank stare.


    The chief stare was fixed at Felix empty expression a moment before she lit her cigarette.


    ¡°It was sudden. You got there late, so I can¡¯t blame you, and Cygnus¡¯ CEO wasn¡¯t exactly being cooperative with their information. But from what I can piece together, Miss Carol was on a stake out, expecting a drug trade. But it was a trap to lure her out to take her armor.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ the man said he wanted to sell it and get his family out of debt.¡± Felix¡¯s eyebrows curled, ¡°But¡­ how could they possibly have known she would show up?¡±


    ¡°A couple of robins were discovered dead two days after your encounter.¡± The chief answered.


    ¡°¡­ Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°And the weapon I brought you?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t received intel yet, but from what you¡¯ve described in your report, it appears to be an energy gun, similar to yours, but for now, we¡¯ll have to wait.¡±


    ¡°Then, what about the Matrix Key?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a complex structure of codes that changes every time anyone tries to solve it, as for what it opens, we¡¯ll just have to wait for Maria.¡±


    ¡°No need to wait.¡± The door opened as Maria nonchalantly waltzed in unannounced, in a pale-yellow top with a bright pizza print in the middle. There were visible dark bags under her eyes.


    ¡°Marie.¡± Felix greeted; his head leaned against the sofa as he looked at her.


    ¡°Care to explain why I¡¯m not involved in this briefing?¡±


    ¡°Maria, this is a solo mission.¡±


    ¡°What happened to ¡®the two of you will be partners from now on?¡¯¡± She asked with a pout on her face.


    Marie¡¯s expression was sad¡­ in more ways than one.


    Felix patted the seat beside him, and Maria sat down grumpily with her arms crossed.


    ¡°It¡¯s because you¡¯re supposed to be analyzing the key. Are you done?¡±


    ¡°Not yet¡­ it had a multi-layered encryption lock on it. Why would a key be locked?¡± Maria spoke in a low, curious voice.


    ¡°That¡¯s for you to find out. Besides, I did specify that there would be instances where you would work separately, did I not? As for Felix, you were requested to bodyguard this girl.¡± She said as she swiped the holographic screen towards him.


    The photo showed a young blonde girl. As Felix read through it, a particular detail caught his eye, ¡°A pop idol?¡±


    ¡°The daughter of Takeuchi Sakurai.¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s Obsidian Industries heiress, why don¡¯t they just use their own operatives?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°If it was professional help they were looking for, why did they pick Felix?¡± Maria scoffed.


    ¡°Rank eighty-four, Ernesto Hansen, fifty-two, Andrea Vergara, twenty-seven, Warren Antonovich, all dead. Along with four robins. All of them were riddled with bullets.¡± Chief listed down the names of the Elite Agents that have died.


    Caught off guard, Felix didn¡¯t know how to respond. Noticing this, Maria let out a bitter joke, ¡°Poor word birds, but I guess that means they finally recognize Felix¡¯s ability.¡±


    ¡°Actually, Felix was their third choice. Sir Takeuchi wanted the highest-ranked ¡®esper¡¯ available.¡±


    ¡°Esper?¡± He asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s what everyone from Project ASTRAEA will officially be referred to from here on out, to differentiate you from the Enhanced Humans of Project CHIMERA.¡±


    ¡°Project Chimera?¡± Maria muttered as gears started to turn in her head.


    ¡°I guess it¡¯s better than Homo Lucerna or whatever¡­¡± He shrugged.


    ¡°The Director was annoyed at how you were assisted by during Lewis¡¯ capture and thought that you may have gotten promoted too quickly. Besides, I think this might interest you. The suspect is rumored to have a connection with the Jackal.¡±


    Felix¡¯s lips widen ever so slightly upon hearing the words chief uttered, ¡°Jackal¡­ huh?¡±


    ¡°Weren¡¯t all of his accomplices in Cocytus penitentiary?¡± Maria interjected.


    ¡°It¡¯s all speculation from the intel the Robin System¡¯s collected, but it¡¯s possible that he might be forming a new little band of terrorists, a new set of ¡°Fangs¡±, if you will. It would be preferable if you could detain him.¡±


    ¡°But, why target her instead of the CEO himself?¡±


    ¡°Taking out the higher ups is probably a task too difficult, even for them, but in targeting an official¡¯s family members during the concert, it¡¯s basically a declaration that he¡¯s not afraid of us.¡±


    ¡°But if that¡¯s the case, then why would they pick me?¡± Felix mumbled out.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you were the best agent here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not saying I can¡¯t do it.¡±


    ¡°Initially they requested David or Anastasia. But since they¡¯re occupied, that leaves you. It may also be because they wanted to know why you suddenly jumped two ranks in a single night. They wanted to know if their funding was being put to good use, so they intend to borrow you for twenty-four hours.¡±


    ¡°So, an exhibition¡­ the info on this assassin, then?¡±


    The chief slid another projected screen Felix¡¯s way. But there wasn¡¯t a lot of info written on it.


    ¡°His name is Jeffrey Carleton, but after we looked up his background, it was clearly a fake alias, and there were no images of him either. All we know is that he¡¯s male, and that he¡¯s close to one of the heiress¡¯s friends.¡±


    ¡°Which one?¡±


    ¡°We don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s helpful.¡±


    ¡°The robin who collected this info was killed before they could deliver the full details. His phone was found destroyed, and his body was found inside of a dumpster and covered in ashes. We have reason to believe that the ashes were the back-up data.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡±


    ¡°You will leave tomorrow morning. Preparations are being made as we speak. For now, you just get some rest. Or you could start right now, if you so prefer.¡± The chief snickered.


    ¡°So then, can I join?¡±


    ¡°Marie¡­¡± Felix spoke.


    ¡°Fine, fine. You suck as a bodyguard. You know that, right?¡± Maria sulked.


    ¡°Besides, this is what you wanted, no? Or did your heart change too much after one mission with her?¡± The Chief mockingly remarked.


    Felix scratched his cheek, feeling flushed at the chief¡¯s throwaway comment.


    ¡°Then I guess it¡¯s time to prepare.¡± He stood up and stretched his arms out.


    ¡°Before that¡­¡± The chief answered as she reached for something under her desk.


    ¡°Cake?¡± Maria mumbled.


    With a curious look, Felix asked, as he walked forward, ¡°What¡¯s the occasion?¡±


    She pushed up the bridge of her orange-tinted glasses and congratulated him, ¡°Congratulations on being promoted to rank eleven.¡±


    Both Felix and Maria walked up to her table to take a slice of the simple black chocolate cake. Maria quickly sat back after taking her portion, her feet up on the chair as she enjoyed the cake with a smile on her face, while Felix continued to stand as he took a bite.


    The chief asked with an approving smirk; ¡°So, how does it feel to no longer be the black cat of ruin?¡±


    ¡°Has anything changed really?¡±


    ¡°I see, then let me rephrase my question, how does it feel achieving Luna¡¯s goal for her?¡±


    ¡°Reaching the first rank is a means¡­ not an end.¡± Felix grumbled after taking a bite from his cake.


    ¡°Luna?¡± Maria mumbled out.


    ¡°Has Felix not told you?¡±


    ¡°She was my mentor.¡± Felix immediately cut the chief off. ¡°The one I told you about before.¡±


    Maria¡¯s eyes lowered with curiosity down to a cold expression, ¡°So that¡¯s her name¡­¡± She coldly mumbled.


    The short-lived party of three people ended as the daytime fell, and the night time passed. And the new day dawned.


    ~

 Just As Suddenly… part 2

    The blue skies were pale and soft, without a cloud in the sky. With a cup of coffee in hand and a suitcase on the other, Felix headed to the agency¡¯s air terminal, which was already set to leave. Ahead of him stood Maria, waiting for him beside the jet.


    Felix took his time walking.


    When he finally made it, Maria reached out her hand with eyes full of pity and pressed it on Felix¡¯s shoulder, ¡°I won¡¯t be there to take care of you, okay? No one¡¯s gonna be there to pick up after your mess, understand?¡± She said condescendingly.


    A vein pulsed on his forehead, but played along regardless, ¡°I understand. You don¡¯t have to worry about me.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t forget to pack a grappling hook, did you?¡±


    ¡°I actually brought two, in case one explodes again.¡±


    ¡°Hope you do a better job bodyguarding this girl than you did with me.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll... try my best.¡± He replied with a click of his tongue.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget about me, okay?¡± She teased, placing her hand on Felix¡¯s cheek with a teary, mocking smile on her face.


    I really want to hit her but she unfortunately had a point. I did make for a lousy bodyguard. However...


    Felix, overcome by his annoyance of her taunts, pinched her checks.  ¡±What is wrong with you?!¡±


    ¡°Ah guwayt¡ª menny thi¡ª s-stahp it!¡± But as she tried to whimper out her response, he pinched her cheeks harder.


    He sighed and let go before looking at her with a serious look, ¡°You want me to get you an autograph or something?¡±


    ¡°What, are you gonna take a photo with them or something? Nah, I¡¯m more of a rock kinda girl.¡± She answered in a somewhat oddly triumphant tone.


    ¡°Mhm¡­ why?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t like how idols are always so upbeat and overly cheerful. How they always seem ecstatic to make fans happy. It all seems so fake to me.¡± She said as she lowered her head, her tone was sharper than usual and dripping with petulance.


    ¡°Harsh... Alright, if that¡¯s it, then I¡¯m going¡ª¡± Felix replied, about to go inside the plane.


    ¡°Actually, I want you to tell me something.¡± Maria spoke in a more serious manner.


    ¡°Mhm, what is it?¡±


    ¡°What is it that¡¯s bothering you?¡±


    ¡°Wha¡ª nothing¡¯s bothering me.¡±


    ¡°Liar, you¡¯ve looked troubled since this morning.¡±


    ¡°Like I said, it¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s about Jackal, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°I saw you smirk when you heard his name.¡±


    ¡°Hm¡­ right. I¡¯m just¡­ we finally get a trail. We finally get to find him.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ Good luck, and leave nothing to chance, as Chief Vivian would put it.¡±


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    As he took a step forward, however, Maria added, ¡°And Felix. You may be the Blue Phantom, the professional masked assassin... but without the mask, you¡¯re just you. Resident dumdum and... my irreplaceable friend. So, be careful, okay?¡±


    ¡°Okay. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be fine.¡± He replied as he placed his hand on her head.


    Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    From inside the jet, he noticed from the corner of his eye, the silver-haired girl and the blond young man from before, getting down from a black car at the agency¡¯s entrance. He continued to gaze with his cheek against his hand, but they were eventually out of sight as it began to ascend.


    *


    As the hours passed, visions of the past flashed in his mind as he drifted to sleep. Fragmented memories replaying as dreams.


    He saw himself as a child on a podium with several other children, standing under the gold and red banners of the Golden Lion Agency. The loud voice from the microphone was an indescribable blur, and the only words that he could clearly make out was ¡°Proud¡± and ¡°The Implementation.¡±


    They were then herded into black cars by men in dark suits, their faces obscured by shadows.


    As he stepped out of the vehicle, he was greeted by the warm, stiff air under the clear blue sky. Yet the sight ahead struck him much more discomfort, as he saw the facility standing before them ¡ª A white building that felt like it belonged to a city long forgotten. A relic with crumbling corners and a dirty, fading white coat that grayed with age.


    The feeling of desolation quickly dawned on them. Their senses screamed not to enter inside.


    Not a single one dared to step forward, so the men in suits dragged them inside one by one. Yet as the man grabbed his arm, he heard one of the men yell out in pain.


    One of the other boys had bit his handler¡¯s hand and quickly bolted.


    Fear and adrenaline took over the boy as he made his escape, but before he could get far, a loud crack, along with the scent of gunpowder.


    Felix¡¯s eyes jolted open as he gasped. He had a distraught expression as his heart raced, only to realize that the jet was descending.


    He looked out the window and saw that he was already landing. And as he got down, he was greeted by a breath of cool, crisp air, before immediately being taken to the city by a car with Obsidian Industries logo, to the building where the heiress was residing.


    At the front of the building were three bars, one taller than the next, encased in two triangles. The logo of Obsidian Industries.


    Felix walked through the corridor at the highest floor, where he found a number of girls in colorful outfits stood behind the door of where he was supposed to go.


    ¡°You girls wouldn¡¯t happen to be Starry Sweethearts, would you?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡±Ah, y-yes!¡± One of the girl¡¯s responded in a tense manner.


    ¡±Um, are any of you girls Yumiko Sakurazawa?¡±


    The girls looked at him with an uneasy expression.


    ¡°A-are you her new bodyguard?¡± One of the girls asked.


    ¡°W-wait, Ayame-chan.¡± Another girl from behind her tugged her sleeve.


    ¡±Yes. Is there something wrong?¡± Felix smiled warmly in response.


    Somehow, I feel relieved they don¡¯t speak English perfectly.


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­ in-in the room.¡± The girl stammered to answer, looking at the door with weary expressions.


    There was an uneasy atmosphere. Something about their expressions hinted to Felix that he should proceed with caution. But as he looked at their faces, he suddenly found himself thinking about a woman with silvery hair patting him on the head.


    Maybe I should try to ease their worries, the way Luna used to do for me. Now what would she do¡­ Or what would Maria do. How should I handle this?


    The ecstatic, orange-haired woman from earlier suddenly flashed in his mind, asking for his autograph.


    He reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone.


    ¡°I¡¯m um¡­ I¡¯m actually a fan¡­ your music is¡­ really good. So would it be alright to take a picture?¡± Felix¡¯s voice cracked as he did his best to finish his sentence.


    Their eyes lit up slightly as they replied in a livelier manner, ¡°Y-yes!¡±


    ¡°Ayame-chan, won¡¯t your boyfriend get mad if he saw you with another guy?¡± One of the girls teased.


    ¡°He, he¡¯s not my boyfriend!¡± The one named Ayame yelled out with bright red cheeks, ¡°Let¡¯s take the picture!¡± She sighed.


    ¡°Alright, thanks.¡±


    As they took the photo, the girls briefly smiled brightly. Felix would have rather not done it, yet he did so in the hopes that it would calm their nerves, even if, just by a little bit. He then waved to the girls, but as he reached for the knob, one of the girls caught his sleeve and spoke.


    ¡°It was¡­ nice to meet all of you.¡± He said stiffly as he offered a handshake.


    Ayame¡¯s face shriveled in panic at the sight of his hand.


    One of the girl¡¯s then looked at him, ¡°Don¡¯t worry about her, she just doesn¡¯t do handshakes¡­ Be careful.¡±


    ¡°Ah, I will. Thanks.¡± He replied before waving goodbye.


    ¡°Cheerful, upbeat girls who would be ecstatic to make a fan happy¡­ Idols sure are a strange bunch.¡± He mumbled to himself as he reached for the door.


    Felix opened the door slowly, the scent of meat permeated the room, while a thin young girl in a white tank top stood next to the stove with chopsticks in hand. Her ponytail swayed with her movements as she cooked.


    ¡°Are you my new bodyguard?¡± She asked, not even giving Felix a glance. Her voice was clearly more used to speaking in English than the rest of the girls in her group.


    ¡°I believe so.¡± He answered as he flashed his Golden Lion badge.


    The room was dimly lit, but it was clear how spacious it was. Felix placed his luggage next to the marble pillar on the corner of the kitchen. The stove let out a sharp click as it was turned off.


    She turned to him and eyed him down while still cooking, ¡°Moody, broody, and covered in all black. You must be the agent papa sent.¡±


    ¡°That assessment is¡­ harsh. So, that means you¡¯re Yumiko Sakurazawa, real name Natsumi Sakurai?¡± Just as he turned to face her, his mismatched eyes met with the muzzle of a gun she pointed at him. And just as suddenly ¨C it fired.


    ~

 Idol and Agent part 1

    Chapter 7


    Idol and Agent


    Felix quickly dashed away as bullet shells fell in rapid succession. One by one, the loud sounds reverberated across the room. Natsumi, the girl who he was supposed to be protecting, was firing at him.


    ¡°What are you¡ª!¡± He yelled out, only to instinctively back away as he heard the next round fired.


    He reached for his gun, but it was too far from his hand.


    ¡°Come on, why won¡¯t it work?¡± He muttered to himself as a bead of sweat slid down his cheek.


    He leapt over to grab his gun and peaked from the corner of his blue eye, he quickly aimed it at her. But when he noticed her frightened face, he was unable to pull the trigger. He glanced back down to steel himself, but then noticed something strange about the area ¨C there was no damage anywhere in the room.


    When the metal clanging stopped, the girl lowered her arm. The scent of umami that permeated the room was replaced by the sharp scent of the gunpowder.


    Felix got up and looked around, even as she continued to fire at him. He then approached her, and without hesitation, she pulled the trigger once more.


    A loud bang rang, while the scent of smoke followed. He let out a cold, unfazed glare as he towered over her.


    The girl¡¯s voice cracked as she saw how undaunted Felix was. ¡°You¡¯re surprisingly calm. People normally panic¡­ after getting shot.¡±


    ¡°¡­Great acting¡­maybe I would have died¡­ if this were real.¡± He answered in a simmering rage as he grabbed her wrist and took the gun off her hands.


    Her eyes widen for a moment before letting out a relieved sigh, ¡°¡­There shouldn¡¯t be any way to differentiate a real one from a fake.¡±


    ¡°The difference is that a real gun destroys things.¡± Felix answered as he looked back to where he hid from her assault.


    Natsumi¡¯s hostile exterior changed to a softer one as a gentle laughter escaped her lips, ¡°Ah, I see.¡±


    ¡°I assume those bullets were holograms? They were moving too fast for me to notice the pixels.¡±


    ¡°They were, courtesy of Brilliant Light Industries.¡± She cheekily admitted.


    ¡°They were pretty convincing when I could barely see them. Now tell me, who are you?¡± Felix placed his gun against her head.


    She put on a brave front as she answered, ¡°I-I told you, my name is Natsumi Sakurai.¡±


    ¡°How do I know you¡¯re not lying?¡±


    ¡°Mhm¡­ Natsumi Sakurai, daughter of Takeuchi Sakurai of Obsidian Industries, incorporated. That introduction alone should be enough.¡± She assured him as she showed him an ID with Obsidian Industries¡¯ seal on it.


    Felix let out an exasperated sigh, ¡°You gave me a heart attack¡­¡±


    ¡°I tend to do that. So you must be the Black Cat of Ruin, then? Elite Agents are really something else, aren¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°I actually go by Blue Phantom, now.¡± Felix corrected her.


    ¡°Hm¡­ So you really are the genuine article. Still, I think Black Cat suits you better.¡± She smirked and placed her hand on her chin.


    ¡°How many times do you intend to test me?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m done. You¡¯re the real thing.¡±


    ¡°Right. Are you really Natsumi Sakurai?¡±


    ¡°Sometimes, I wish I wasn¡¯t.¡±


    Felix rolled his eyes and replied, ¡°Well, it shouldn¡¯t be too long until security arrives and¡ª¡±


    ¡°No worries, they know. The staff is currently under my control.¡±


    Felix inhaled sharply and took his luggage to the black leather couch in the living room, where moonlight illuminated through the glass walls. Natsumi looked puzzled as she watched him walk away.


    ¡°You¡¯re not gonna ask why I shot you just now?¡± She followed him to the living room.


    ¡°It¡¯s probably because you wanted me to prove myself, or perhaps it was to prove to daddy dearest that you can take care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Color me surprised. And you¡¯re not mad?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m actually furious. I was all too ready to kill you if I hadn¡¯t noticed the surroundings.¡± He flashed her an irritated glare.


    ¡°Perceptive, but your face doesn¡¯t say furious at all.¡± She grinned.


    If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    ¡°I¡¯d advise against doing that again, there are agents who would¡¯ve killed you by accident for pulling a stunt like that.¡±


    ¡°That would¡¯ve been bad, wouldn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d say that¡¯s pretty bad.¡±


    ¡°Well, not much to lose other than my own life I suppose.¡±


    Felix sighed and looked at her with a worried expression, ¡°Your recklessness reminds me of someone. Still, I¡¯m curious why a pop idol is carrying one in the first place.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m the CEO¡¯s daughter, so I¡¯ve had my own fair share.¡±


    ¡°This world really isn¡¯t fair if an idol like you needs to be proficient with a gun.¡±


    ¡°Gross. What are you, some sort of therapist, too?¡± She sharply remarked as she placed her elbows on the couch, lowering her head to her palms.


    The luggage let out a loud click as Felix rummaged through his stuff. He pulled out a black-suit, a bullet-proof vest, ammunition, a small bottle of anesthetic, all in order to find his weapons. His pistol, as well as his energy gun, Ion.


    He examined his gear under the pale moonlight that split the room in the middle, while Natsumi quietly watched from over his shoulder.


    Nearly a minute passed, and some of the dancing dust particles faded back into the shadows.


    Yet as he rummaged through deeper, he found that on the other side of luggage was a pale mask, metallic and without any detail other than the dark eyes that contrasted to its ghostly white color.


    Felix smirked softly to himself as he looked at it.


    Natsumi inched her way closer from behind him, giving a curious stare, ¡°A mask? Is that part of your gimmick?¡±


    ¡°Uh, yeah...¡±


    She reached for the mask, gesturing for him to give it to her. Felix let out a heavy exhale and reluctantly gave it to her. In her hands, though, she placed it against his face.


    Uneasy, he asked, ¡°Hm? What are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Staring into the abyss.¡±


    He awkwardly grunted. ¡°Ah-mhm.¡±


    Natsumi chuckled and teased, ¡°Apparently, the abyss gets flustered the longer I stare at it.¡±


    ¡°Some pop idol you are.¡±


    ¡°An amazing pop idol I am.¡± She cheerfully responded.


    He returned the mask into the case and frowned at her, ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°I want lots of things.¡±


    Felix let out a deep, guttural groan at her response.


    With his dismay in full view, Natsumi nervously added, ¡°Well then, you mind telling me why your left eye glows in the dark? Is that like your superpower or something?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it.¡±


    ¡°Come on, tell me what you¡¯re thinking, I wanna¡ª¡± Suddenly, a soft growl escapes Natsumi¡¯s stomach.


    ¡°Your friend has other plans...¡± Felix replied in a deadpan tone.


    The tone of her voice immediately changed into a more commanding one as she wrapped her hair into a side ponytail. ¡°Accompany me to the restaurant outside.¡±


    ¡°You just finished cooking, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, but the scent of gunpowder is kinda making me sick, so¡­¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ Whose fault is that?¡±


    ¡°Mine, and?¡±


    ¡°Right, and you¡¯re going to have to deal with that.¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon, it¡¯ll be fun!¡± She spoke nonchalantly, averting her eyes.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go with those other girls from earlier?¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re probably already out in the city, and there¡¯s somewhere else, and you¡¯re my bodyguard so¡­¡± Natsumi mumbled as she put her on a large, loose black hoodie.


    ¡°You¡¯ve got food right here, and my mission technically doesn¡¯t start until midnight. So whatever happens before then...¡± Felix bluffed as he returned his attention to polishing his guns.


    She pouted, ¡°Wow, and here I heard you were gunning for number one... I¡¯m going.¡±


    The door shut with a loud thump, yet Felix continued to gaze at his mask with a faint smile. He took in a deep breath and exhaled heavily, placing the mask on the table.


    He laid his head down against the furniture and stared at the ceiling.


    ¡°I hesitated¡­ If that was a real gun, and I hesitated¡­ would I have been able to stop the bullets?¡± He contemplated in a weak voice.


    He wiped his face with his palm and stretched, ¡°I¡¯ve dealt with real guns before. So there¡¯s no point in thinking about it now.¡± He tried to dismiss the shock he felt as it weighed on him.


    ¡°The problem is¡­ I hesitated. At point blank range¡­ I don¡¯t think I can afford to hesitate again. Arhg! What a drag!¡±


    He reached for his phone to distract himself from the uncomfortable thought.


    ¡°Those girls, huh?¡± He thought to himself as he sent the photo he took earlier to Maria.


    Less than a minute later, a message returned that read, ¡°Lmao, you into idols now?¡±


    He went through his contacts to reply. Though his expression changed when he accidentally pressed the wrong number.


    ¡®Why does technology hate me?¡¯ He mumbled in disbelief.


    ¡°Felix? Is there something wrong?¡± From the other end, a scruffy old voice asked with a worried tone.


    ¡°Nothing much, professor¡­ I just accidentally um¡­ yeah, um, about the gear you sent me.¡± He glanced over to the white mask.


    ¡°I take it you¡¯ve seen the mask, is it to your liking?¡±


    ¡°Eh, it¡¯s not the worst thing you¡¯ve made. I just¡­ um¡­ needed to ask if there¡¯s anything I should know about it.¡±


    ¡°Hmm, well, it¡¯s made with an alloy we¡¯ve been developing called ¡°Aestrellium¡±, roughly three times stronger than titanium, with only half the weight, and the development team are working on your new guns as we speak.¡± The man prided himself with his creation to an inattentive Felix.


    ¡°Mhm, anything else?¡±


    ¡°I am a geneticist, not a weapon¡¯s designer. Nothing I can explain to you in greater detail. Though they are the test models for your next ones.¡±


    ¡°Right. That¡¯s all I¡ª¡±


    ¡°There is a story about it that I¡¯d like to tell you¡ª¡± Professor Tetsuya answered in a proud tone.


    ¡°Thanks. But, perhaps another time. That¡¯s all I needed.¡± He replied before he hung up and placed the phone next to his mask.


    Stronger than titanium, huh?


    Felix picked up the gun and swung it up and down to aim, but put it down as soon as he noticed a pen from the corner of his eye, which he picked up and began to click on it incessantly.


    The moonlight crossed over the half of the apartment, and the flickering sound of the lamp was all that could be heard along with his constant clicking. The dish Natsumi prepared had cooled down, and the mixed scent of stew and gunpowder faded.


    When Felix finally put down the pen, he reached to his chest and pulled out his pendant and stared longingly as it swayed back and forth, his iris letting out a soft light glow, like a flower in full bloom, shining against the half-lit room.


    As the necklace dangled in front of him, he recollected the soft words spoken by his beloved mentor, ¡°You¡¯re a good, kind person, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Swallowing his own stubbornness, he closed the suitcase and reluctantly stood up, ¡°Haaa, fine¡­¡±


    He steadily opened the door, letting out a creaking sound.


    ¡°You sure took your time, didn¡¯t you?¡± Natsumi complained, leaned against the wall while staring at her phone.


    With his hand still on the handle, Felix looked at her with an awkward expression. ¡°You were waiting for me?¡±


    ¡°A frail, famous girl like me going out in the public alone at night? I might get attacked out there.¡± She feigned fragility.


    ¡°I get it. I¡¯ll come with you.¡±


    ¡°I knew you¡¯d come around. You¡¯re about to go on a date with the Yumiko Sakurai, after all, so be grateful!¡± She smugly declared.


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯d be more grateful if you didn¡¯t do your little stunt.¡±


    ¡°Get rid of the sass.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, yeah. Give me a minute¡­¡±


    ¡°And turn the lights off!¡±


    ~

 Idol and Agent part 2

    It was the evening before the concert, and the personnel were in chaos. There was a thick tension in the atmosphere. There were a number of staff members shouting at the other workers, while a number of lifters struggled to find where the remaining stage props were supposed to go, while some relaxed and relieved stress with cigarettes hidden in the back.


    In the back, Felix leaned against the walls, dressed in a black vest over a white polo. His mismatched eyes concealed behind a pair of sunglasses. From afar, he watched as Natsumi conversed with a black suited man with a clipboard in hand.


    ¡°Good to see everything¡¯s going smoothly, Producer-san!¡± Natsumi smiled.


    ¡°Alright, see you tomorrow, Yumiko-chan.¡±


    Natsumi waved as she walked over to where Felix was waiting, ¡°Why with the long face?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re here because?¡± Felix expressed his dismay.


    ¡°Just seeing into the finishing touches. I want to see if papa¡¯s investments are being handled properly. Don¡¯t worry, after this it¡¯ll just be you and me and a night on the town.¡±


    ¡°How lucky am I.¡± He scoffed.


    She glanced over to the wide-open space they were in, it was what one would expect of a concert arena, only twice as large, ¡°Speak your mind, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°Looks like a pretty big event.¡±


    ¡°It should be. Anyway, I¡¯m just gonna go to Yoko-san for a bit to look over the finances.¡±


    As she walked away to talk to the black-haired lady on the stage, Felix was left alone for a brief period. He pulled out the smartphone in his pocket and read through the documents.


    Now, would the sniper attack before, after, or during the performance? It doesn¡¯t even make any sense why they would attack during the concert. In any case, I should keep my guard up.


    ¡°You¡¯re an unfamiliar face, who are you supposed to be?¡± An unfamiliar man with a speaker on his shoulder walked up to Felix. With tanned skin and messy, and pale blond hair.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡ª¡± The tanned man gestured Felix to stop before he could say another word.


    ¡°No, no. Let me guess, you¡¯re Yumiko¡¯s new bodyguard?¡± He smiled widely, putting the speaker down. It was clear at a glance that he had a well-toned physique.


    ¡°¡­That¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°So what¡¯s your name, bro?¡±


    ¡°Do I have to tell you?¡± Felix indifferently replied.


    ¡°Eh, as one bodyguard to another, I thought we could make a little chit chat.¡±


    If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it customary here to give your own name first before asking for another¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Eh, you got me there, bro. I¡¯m Asahi. Asahi Yamamoto, at your service.¡± The tanned man raised both his hands in defeat.


    Felix adjusted his sunglasses by the bridge, the way the Chief always would, and answered in a rehearsed manner, ¡°It¡¯s Haruki. Nice to meet you.¡±


    ¡°Ah, it¡¯s nice to meet you, Haruki!¡± Asahi extended his hand.


    ¡°Likewise¡­ So Asahi¡­-san. Who are you supposed to be bodyguarding?¡± Felix asked as he shook his hand, the tanned man had a firm grip that he took notice of. He could tell that Asahi was also very capable.


    ¡°I was hired recently to protect the Sweethearts.¡±


    ¡°Then why aren¡¯t you accompanying them right now?¡±


    ¡°They asked me to leave¡­ and there should be someone else watching over them at the moment, but Yumiko really does have her own personal bodyguard, doesn¡¯t she? Damn, I¡¯m so jealous of you.¡± He muttered excitedly.


    His eyebrows curled curiously, ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I heard that there were a lot of people out to get her, so she tests her bodyguards to see if they¡¯re worthy of her, whatever that means.¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s what it was?¡± Felix blurted out under his breath to pique the man¡¯s interest.


    ¡°Why, what happened, bro? Did she test you?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I guess I ¡°passed.¡±


    ¡°How? What kind of test was it? What did she do? What did she ask?¡± Asahi quickly barraged him with questions.


    ¡°It¡¯s not exactly the most pleasant of tests.¡± He dryly answered with the slightest smirk.


    ¡°Eh? Now I¡¯m curious!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather not talk about it.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ still, to have a bodyguard all to herself¡­ It¡¯s a shame I couldn¡¯t get close to her.¡±


    ¡°Hm? Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°¡­I wanna be close to all of them! They¡¯re cute and everything, and since she¡¯s¡­ well, aren¡¯t you interested in them?¡±


    Felix sighed, ¡°You¡¯re not supposed to be interested in your charges, it¡¯s not professional.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re so stiff, bro¡­ But I guess that what sets us apart. I don¡¯t think I can keep myself away¡­ not when I have my eye on someone.¡±


    Felix gave a disgusted expression and cracked his knuckles, ¡°You know, if you touch any of them¡ª¡±


    ¡°I know, I know. You don¡¯t need to worry about me, bro. I¡¯m fine just watching from afar, I can¡¯t let her reputation get ruined.¡± He muttered wistfully with a far off look.


    ¡°Which one of them is her?¡± The agent¡¯s eyebrows curled.


    With documents in hand, Natsumi returned, accompanied by a tall, black-haired office lady wearing black-rimmed glasses. The tanned bodyguard averted his eyes to the side as they approached.


    ¡°Hey! I¡¯d like you to meet the financial manager of Starry Sweethearts, Yoko Takahashi. She said she wanted to meet you. Yoko-san, this is my new body¡ª¡±


    Felix quickly reached out for a handshake. ¡°I¡¯m Haruki, Haruki Saionji. I¡¯m Yumiko¡¯s new bodyguard. It¡¯s nice to meet you, Miss Yoko.¡±


    ¡°Ah, eh? R-right, Haruki.¡± Natsumi blurted out.


    Asahi¡¯s eyes narrowed as he watched Natsumi¡¯s startled response.


    ¡°Pleasures all mine, Haruki-dono. I do hope that you will fulfill your duty without any issue. I have high expectations of the both of you.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, Yoko-san! I think that¡¯s putting a lot of pressure on the both of¡ª¡± Asahi commented.


    ¡°Without question.¡± Felix replied without a hint of hesitation.


    There was a sudden stop as Miss Yoko stared sternly at Felix as she pushed her glasses up, shaking his hand. The sharp-eyed office lady then pulled Natsumi to her side, dragging her away from the two bodyguards. Felix¡¯s eyebrows lower in contrast to Asahi¡¯s eyes widening.


    ¡°Yumiko.¡± Kyoko whispered in her ear.


    ¡°Y-yes, Yoko-san?¡± Natsumi responded nervously.


    Yoko pushes her glasses upward, ¡°I like him.¡±


    ¡°Ah, oh¡­ he¡¯s funny, isn¡¯t he?¡± She smiled.


    The two bodyguards were left behind by the two women, left with only each other¡¯s company, Asahi tried to strike a conversation


    ¡°Bro, what do you think they¡¯re talking about?¡±


    ¡°Who knows?¡±


    Asahi gave him a discontent look, ¡°You know you¡¯re really hard to talk to, bro.¡±


    ¡°So I¡¯ve been told.¡± Felix answered before the conversation fell into silence.


    ~

 Dinner Date with the Idol

    Chapter 8


    Dinner Date with the Idol


    Faint blue and purple hues adorned the walls of the dimly lit restaurant, giving the space a cold glow, while  Hanging bulbs cast soft, warm light from above, contrasting with the industrial-style chairs and tables below. At one of the tables, an unlikely pair dined together, their voices blending with the murmurs from onlookers, who couldn¡¯t help but stare at them.


    ¡°Ah, that hits the spot!¡± The pop idol ¡ª Natsumi Sakurai ¡ª exclaimed as she gulped down from a highball glass.


    She then asked, ¡°You look upset, come on, what¡¯s on your mind?¡±


    ¡°You tried to shoot me.¡± Felix answered, his face firmly placed atop his palm.


    ¡°That was a long time ago. And those were blanks that you would have avoided.¡± She waved dismissively.


    ¡°That was two hours ago, and you would¡¯ve shot me twice if it was real.¡± He pointed to his chest, then shoulder.


    ¡°Yeah, but I didn¡¯t, so it¡¯s all good.¡±


    ¡°I might have retaliated for it.¡± He retorted, looking to the side with an annoyed expression.


    ¡°But you didn¡¯t, so we all good, yeah?¡± She then perched her head over her hands, ¡°Don¡¯t be a downer and tell me more about yourself.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather not.¡±


    ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll just look up your file in the records then.¡± She threatened as she pulled out her phone.


    ¡°¡­ there should be clearances for that info.¡±


    ¡°Which I have. Felix Aster, twenty years old, real name¡ª¡± Heiress that she was, she pressured him into talking.


    ¡°Enough.¡±


    ¡°Feel like talking now?¡±


    He glanced at her and gave her a sharp look.


    It was a familiar sight looking at the blonde heiress, but he was looking beyond her, into an older memory trapped behind bars, ¡°What if your name was Felix?¡± A blonde girl said to him with a cheery smile.


    He let out a shaky exhale.


    ¡°Are you alright? You look like you were having a flashback.¡± Her voice snapped him out of his daze.


    ¡°Ah, yeah, I was just um¡­you called me the abyss earlier, so let¡¯s start with that.¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon. Moody, dark outfit, sharp eyes. You must¡¯ve made the connection at least. Though I must say, you do clean up nicely.¡± She commented as she eyed him down. His messy hair, slicked back and combed, and dressed in a sleek black vest.


    ¡°If that¡¯s a compliment, I hate it.¡±


    ¡°C¡¯mon, let¡¯s take a picture while we¡¯re here!¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you at all bothered by the fact that I¡¯m a bodyguard?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you glad that I, Natsumi Sakurai, am offering to take a photo with you?¡± She teased as she took off his sunglasses.


    ¡°I took one with the rest of your group earlier, so no, not really.¡± He replied as he pushed away her face with his index finger.


    Her mouth opened slightly, almost insulted. She then pouted. As the waiter approached, Natsumi pulled Felix up by the collar and asked the waiter; ¡°Would you mind taking a photo of us?¡±


    ¡°Ah, certainly, madam.¡±


    Felix stood up beside her, letting out a half-hearted smile, ¡°The food you cooked is gonna go to waste.¡±


    After the shutter had clicked, Natsumi asked, ¡°And this drink, I like it. Another, please.¡±


    As the two of them sat back down, she murmured to herself as she looked at the picture, ¡°I¡¯d say you have rotten eyes, but they¡¯re actually really pretty. The blue one at least. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll post it after we¡¯ve left.¡±


    ¡°The other one will change soon enough. Besides, you shouldn¡¯t get so comfy with me, I¡¯m your bodyguard.¡± He retorted as he put his sunglasses back on.


    ¡°Why not, we¡¯re friends now, aren¡¯t we mister super-spy?¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but I only have one friend at the moment, and she¡¯s already pretty insane.¡± He shrugged as he referred to his partner.


    ¡°Really, you¡¯re breaking my heart, but tell me more about her.¡± Her tone was full of glee.


    ¡°I¡¯d rather not get a headache. In fact, why am I even telling you these things?¡±


    ¡°Never underestimate an idol¡¯s charisma!¡± She boldly declared before putting her phone down, ¡°Anyways, there are people watching us. Not the good kind.¡±


    ¡°The only threat now are the three men watching from over there. And there¡¯s¡­ I can feel another one from far away.¡± Felix turned his head to the window behind him, but the silhouette watching had vanished.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you could tell. Is that a superpower too?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s called bloodlust. It¡¯s a gut feeling, a sixth sense that we were trained to sharpen.¡±


    ¡°How do you¡­ sharpen a sense?¡± She scoffed with disbelief.


    ¡°How do you get better at singing, or any skill?¡± He answered as he added creamer into his cup of coffee before idly taking a sip.


    This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°I feel like that¡¯s not the same thing.¡±


    The waiter came back as he brought her order of lemonade and spoke, ¡°Excuse me, but you wouldn¡¯t happen to be Yumiko Sakurazawa of Starry Sweethearts? Would it be alright to shake your hand?¡±


    ¡°Of course, of course. In fact, could you get me something to sign on?¡± She smiled.


    ¡°I told you to wear a disguise.¡±


    The waiter gave her a glass, which she signed on, and shook her hand.


    As the waiter left, Natsumi spoke, ¡°Not my fault he recognized me, besides you¡¯re here with me, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Your confidence in me is unnerving.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s why I tested you.


    ¡°You¡¯re still testing me, aren¡¯t you? Putting yourself out here where it¡¯s vulnerable.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that they even allow ex-convicts to be agents, so I want to see how necessary they really are.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m not¡ª¡±


    ¡°I know. But you are an Elite Agent¡­ Maybe I¡¯ve taken things too far. It¡¯s time to go.¡±


    ¡°Hm? Go where?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m craving for some ramen next.¡± She smiled with her index finger held up.


    ¡°Alright.¡± Felix stood up in response as he grabbed his things from the table.


    As they were about to leave the restaurant, three men stood up and blocked the door.


    The man at the front spoke, ¡°Excuse me, you wouldn¡¯t happen to be Yumiko Sakurazawa, would you? From Starry Sweethearts?¡±


    Why is everyone here speaking English? Felix thought to himself.


    ¡°I get that a lot. I guess I really do look like her.¡± She snickered with an unfazed smile.


    ¡°No, I¡¯m pretty sure we saw you sign a glass.¡±


    ¡°Is that so, then I take it that you¡¯re all fans of mine then?¡±


    ¡°We are, and we would like to borrow you for a moment. In private.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s tough, ¡®cause I¡¯m here with my bodyguard. Anything you say to me, you say to him.¡±


    ¡°Bodyguard, eh?¡± One of the men cackled with a wry grin as he pulled out a gun from his suit.


    Felix¡¯s dull and tired expression turned into disinterest as he looked at the grinning man.


    ¡°Obsidian Industries owes us a debt! You¡¯re coming with us, Natsumi Sakurai!¡± The man clutched her arm and dragged her.


    ¡°H-hey, watch it!¡± She yelled out as they dragged her out of the table.


    Felix rushed to her side, and struck the man with a direct blow to the face, throwing him over two meters to the ground. The other two¡¯s faces were ridden with shock, while Felix¡¯s hand was still and steady, ready to throw another.


    The murmurs of the other customers grew louder in response.


    ¡°Wh-why you!¡±


    While one of them pointed their gun at Felix, the other grabbed Natsumi with his arm over her neck.


    Felix rushed forward and ducked beneath the man¡¯s hand before he could fire, and coiled his hands on the man¡¯s wrist. A tight grip that got tighter the more he struggled, his arm turned red as he dropped the gun.


    Felix held a steady grip on him until his arm had turned purple. As he fell to his knees, the one who had Natsumi hostage fired at him.


    ¡°Felix!¡±


    Screams and shouts of panic echo loudly in the room. Natsumi¡¯s eyes widened at the sight of her bodyguard getting shot.


    The bullets loudly fired, one, two, three, and four. Felix had been struck four times before letting go of the man¡¯s twisted, violet hand. Once on the arm and three to the chest. A red stain began to grow larger on his white polo as he staggered, but he had yet to fall.


    ¡°What the hell?!¡± The last one yelled out.


    ¡°Let¡ªgo! Let me go!¡± Natsumi began to thrash about.


    As they walked back with Natsumi in tow, she grabbed a cup from a nearby table and splashed the lemonade on the man¡¯s eyes.


    ¡°Argk!¡± The man yelled out as his eyes stung, letting go of the idol and wiping away the lemonade with his sleeve.


    Though before she could get to Felix¡¯s side, the man dragged her by her ponytail, and grabbed her back by the arm like a ragdoll.


    Felix tried to go toward her, but before he could take another step forward.


    ¡°Enough, or else I¡¯ll shoot her instead!¡± The last one declared as pointed his gun against the idol¡¯s head and slowly he made his way toward the exit, but as he got out through the door, he suddenly tensed up, as if an overwhelming pressure slowed him down, but before he could turn around, Natsumi bit into his arm.


    The man¡¯s face contorted as he swung out his arm.


    As she got out of his grip, the man yelled out as he turned towards her, ¡°You bitch!¡±


    But as he did, he found that a gun was pointed at him from still inside the restaurant, ¡°She¡­ has no business with you.¡± Felix declared.


    As it fired, the man was thrown away with great force.


    ¡°Wh-what¡¯s going¡­ on.¡± The man convulsed on the ground, struggling to speak.


    ¡°Now, you¡¯re going to answer me honestly¡­ are you with the Jackal?¡±


    ¡°The¡­ Jackal?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take that as a ¡®no¡¯, but just in case.¡± Felix lifted his fist.


    Red and blue lights lit up the restaurant as police sirens howled against the silent night.


    *


    The streets were brimming with bright lights all around as the two had left the restaurant and traveled together. Felix, who was heavily injured, made little sound in his steps while the popstar nonchalantly hummed the entire way.


    ¡°So, how are you doing?¡± She asked as she leisurely strolled around.


    ¡°First, I get fake shot at, then I get real shot at. I¡¯ve definitely been better.¡± Felix sharply responded.


    ¡°R-right¡­ but you had fun at least, right?¡±


    ¡°Mhm¡­¡±


    ¡°Again, I¡¯m sorry. If there¡¯s anything you want to say to me, just say it.¡±


    ¡°We should go back before you get targeted again.¡±


    ¡°You already got them, so no point in me worrying now. Don¡¯t be glum, sugarplum, our date was fun... before the last part. I know I definitely enjoyed it.¡±


    A vivid memory plays in his head as he hears Maria¡¯s comment about him not knowing how to flirt. Felix changes his expression. His eyes open and the edges of his lips reach his cheeks.


    ¡°You know Natsumi, you¡¯re really cheeky.¡± Felix replied in an unusually upbeat tone.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­ smiling?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I just thought maybe this¡¯d be a little better, is there something wrong?¡±


    ¡°Okay, okay. Not bad, you almost seem human. It¡¯s difficult to tell that you¡¯re faking it.¡±


    ¡°Really now, that¡¯s cold, Natsu-chan. I don¡¯t think there¡¯s anything wrong with what I said.¡± Felix beams with a positive smile.


    ¡°N-Natsu-chan? Okay, stop. My bad, I¡¯m sorry. Stop being sociable, and please don¡¯t call me Natsu-chan ever again.¡±


    ¡±I wasn¡¯t trained to be a spy for nothing, y¡¯know. Besides, I thought you wanted to see the night at the town?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s this, you can¡¯t wait for your date with the cool and cute Yumiko Sakurazawa~?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d be honored to stay with a star such as yourself.¡±


    ¡°Eugh, right. Stop.¡± She shuddered in disgust as her retort backfired.


    ¡°Stop what?¡± Felix grinned victoriously.


    ¡°Enough.¡± Steps echoed from all directions, as the happy-go-lucky idol expressed her grievances to a strangely enthusiastic agent while they searched for a restaurant. ¡°Anyway, I¡¯m surprised you¡¯re still in one piece.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not. The reinforced vest underneath may have kept the bullet from killing me, but it¡¯s thin, so I felt every hit.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Sorry. Again, are you absolutely sure we shouldn¡¯t go to the hospital?¡±


    Felix clicked his tongue at the thought of the other agents, ¡°If this were enough to keep me down, then I wouldn¡¯t be an Elite Agent, would I?¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s where your pride lies¡­and that gun you shot him with?¡±


    ¡°You mean this?¡± He responded as he pulled out the gun.


    ¡°It just¡­ stopped him from moving?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s an energy gun. Like a taser, or a stun gun, basically.¡±


    ¡°So the thing about you not killing people¡­¡±


    ¡°Agents who kill without reason are ¡°unprofessional.¡±¡° Felix scoffed.


    ¡°Is that how you think? Can I take a look?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Yoink!¡± She grabbed the weapon out of his hand and hopped away.


    Felix reached for her, but could barely move as his body still ached, while Natsumi jumped all over him with a teasing demeanor.


    ¡°Hey, give that b¡ª¡±


    The moment Natsumi hopped away, there was a quick, sharp noise that had struck the bridge¡¯s rails.


    ¡°Eh?¡± She mumbled.


    Suddenly, Natsumi¡¯s cheerfulness turned into shock and fear. As Felix was tossed and rolled against the ground.


    ¡°F-Felix?¡± Natsumi mumbled out before she rushed toward him. ¡°Felix? FELIX?!¡±


    Felix gasped and his mouth spat out blood.


    ¡°S-sniper fire?¡± He could barely voice out.


    He watched with a sharp ring in his ear as Natsumi¡¯s face was full of fright as she sat beside him, crying out his name, before seeing a small flicker of light in the distance behind the buildings and the trees.


    With his mouth still full of blood, he yelled out, ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    ¡°Wh-what?¡±


    ¡°Hold tight.¡±


    Felix picked up Natsumi and put her on his back, and despite the intense pain in his arms, he put his arms low and his hands on the ground and ran.


    He catpassed over the bridge, then continued mindlessly moving forward until the two of them escaped.


    ~

 Heart to Heart Interrogation

    Chapter 9


    Heart to Heart Interrogation


    Between the dust and rubble, a severed arm protruded from the ground as light pierced through the ruins.


    ¡°They¡¯ve¡­ merged¡­ Both stage four and the experimental¡­¡± Professor Yusuke said with a bleeding face.


    ¡°I asked your name, not your designation, silly!¡± The blonde girl said with a cheery smile.


    ¡°...May you be the fruit of all my endeavors, my prosperity, my charity, and my redemption... May you reach the stars¡­ and be what they need¡­ to protect the peace.¡± The professor cried as he looked up towards the sky, before lifting up a needle with prismatic fluid.


    Felix¡¯s mismatched eyes shot open as he deeply gasped, his face was covered in sweat. Those hazy memories replaying in his dreams caused his breathing to be completely uneven. He looked around and found himself on the couch inside Natsumi¡¯s penthouse.


    There was a loud, ticking noise there that he hadn¡¯t completely taken notice of before. The clock¡¯s hand had reached midnight. As he tried to get up, he suddenly felt the sharp pains all over his body and let out a sharp groan.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t get up so quickly if I were you.¡± Natsumi yawned with a muffled voice, her face buried in her arms atop the table.


    ¡°Natsumi¡­ what happened to the sniper?¡±


    Natsumi stretched out her arms and squealed, ¡°You don¡¯t remember? You literally kept running until you collapsed. I took a break to vomit, and then I got a cab to drive us in circles to make sure he lost us.¡±


    He took a deep inhale to calm himself down, and then asked, ¡°Were you the one who bandaged me up?¡±


    ¡°I had someone come over to stitch you up. I wanted to take you to the hospital, but¡­ I was too afraid to go outside again, and I really didn¡¯t want to be away from my bodyguard. Sorry if that sounds selfish.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ More importantly, how are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°A little shaken up, but I¡¯ll manage. On the plus side, I now know why they called you Black Cat¡­¡±


    Felix looked over to the table where he saw his vest and bloodied shirt, torn with holes.


    ¡°I saw you get shot and bleed out, but according to the nurse, you just had a few minor bruises.¡±


    ¡°The concert hasn¡¯t even begun yet, and already I got myself shot.¡± He scoffed.


    ¡°Sorry.¡±


    ¡°What you should apologize for is fake-shooting me earlier.¡± Felix scolded while he looked over his arm, in search for a wound that wasn¡¯t there.


    ¡°Right¡­ sorry.¡± She held back a nervous giggle before falling silent once again.


    He remembered Maria¡¯s words.


    Nothing leaves a scar on us, huh?


    As he silently lied on the sofa, half-asleep, the sudden crackle of oil slowly made his eyes open again.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    A mild, meat-filled fragrance begins to fill the room, Natsumi spoke, ¡°Aren¡¯t you glad? We¡¯re not wasting the food here after all.¡± She snickered. ¡°I¡¯m heating some water, you want anything?¡± She added as she put on the kettle.


    ¡°Coffee, actually.¡± Felix chuckled as he got up, ¡°Do you need any help?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I got it.¡±


    As Natsumi reached for coffee on the shelf, she let out a soft whimper. ¡°Hng...ngg!¡±


    Unbeknownst to Felix was the sharp sensation she suffered, as her arm had gotten sore from having been violently tugged around.


    Natsumi placed the pot in the center of the table and pulled her seat closer.


    ¡°Come on, food¡¯s ready.¡±


    After changing into a gray shirt, Felix stood up with a sharp sting in his chest. He walked towards the kitchen and sat on the chair next to where the bullet shells had still laid.


    ¡°Here, it¡¯s time to eat.¡± She clapped her hands together.


    Felix let out a bothered look upon hearing the last few words. As she notices the change in his expression, the popstar pouts and asks; ¡°Mhm, what¡¯s with that face?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s just weird¡­ that everyone I encountered so far just seems to speak in English.¡±


    She pointed her chopstick toward him ¡°Well, you don¡¯t exactly look very American yourself.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m Chinese¡­¡± Felix answered.


    ¡°And yet we¡¯re both speaking English.¡±


    Felix exhaled and rolled his eyes, waiting for her to get her share. Natsumi reaches her chopsticks for the pot, she suddenly reflexively pulls it back in as it starts to spasm.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± He asked.


    ¡°My arm¡¯s¡­ still a little sore after that guy kept pulling me around.¡± She explains as she glances over reddish marks on her arm that left from the struggle.


    Clutching the still aching wound on his chest, Felix¡¯s eyes lower slightly.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    ¡°For saving me?¡±


    ¡°For not protecting you properly.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who got shot. How are you even still alive?¡±


    He tilted his head, ¡°Bullet-proof vests are standard issue, I thought you would¡¯ve known that.¡±


    ¡°But didn¡¯t you say I would¡¯ve killed you earlier if I¡¯d used a real gun?¡± She jokingly commented.


    ¡°I said you would¡¯ve shot me, likely my arm and back.¡±


    ¡°Guess I should¡¯ve aimed for the head.¡± She jokingly remarked.


    ¡°I do have some defense for that now.¡± Felix shrugged in reference to his new white mask.


    The two sat in silence as they ate. The clinking of chopsticks on the porcelain plates were the only sound from the wide penthouse sweet that the two had soloed. That was until the kettle let out a whistle that gradually turned louder.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Natsumi stood up from the table, ¡°Hot water¡¯s ready.¡±


    Before Felix could stand up, Natsumi gestured for him to stay and sit in wait while she prepared it for both of them.


    ¡°Would you like some creamer with that?¡±


    ¡°¡­Two creams, three sugars.¡±


    ¡°Ah, mhm¡­ You¡¯re serious? You got it Cap¡¯n China.¡± She pouted in response after hearing Felix¡¯s words.


    ¡°Captain¡­ China?¡±


    ¡°You know who I¡¯m talking about, or do you not watch movies?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­¡± She decided to keep shut her mouth and quietly prepared the two mugs, the soft steam flowing out of both of them.


    The only sound that could be heard were those of chopsticks, and the stir of a spoon against the porcelain mugs


    ¡°You know, from the comics? A reference to Captain¡ª You know what? Never mind. Just... Here¡¯s your coffee, princess.¡± Natsumi stopped as she realized the futility of explaining.


    As Felix took the mug, he noticed a soft, sweet scent waft toward him.


    ¡°That smell¡­ I thought you were gonna have coffee?¡±


    ¡°I changed my mind, coco¡¯ll help me sleep easier. I didn¡¯t know you had a sweet-tooth, though.¡±


    ¡°We just met, there¡¯s a lot of things you don¡¯t know about me.¡±


    ¡°Well, we¡¯ll have to fix that.¡±


    The winds outside grew loud, but couldn¡¯t penetrate against the windows of the penthouse suite Natsumi had been staying in. Felix continues to eat. The young pop idol takes a sip from her hot coco, staring into the distance. There was a long pause between them as Felix was already eating the reheated food.


    ¡°Earlier you said that an Elite Agent would¡¯ve killed me, and yet you didn¡¯t. Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°Sounds like you have a death wish.¡±


    ¡°Psh, have you not met my generation?¡± Natsumi snickered.


    Felix sighed, ¡°You¡¯re the heiress to Obsidian Industries. A bodyguard killing their own charge is pretty bad.¡±


    Besides, I have a feeling that there¡¯s more to them assigning me to be your bodyguard than meets the eye.


    ¡°Nah, none of the pesky formalities, there must be some other reason. You could have easily killed me when you retaliated.¡± She stared at Felix with a curious expression.


    Felix was taken aback. He stared down quietly as he pulled together his cluttered and disarray thoughts. Both of his hands let go of the mug, his eyebrows curled slightly. In the brief pause between his words, the memory of the Winter Corporation¡¯s heiress suddenly flashed in his eyes.


    ¡°¡­Will you be able to protect them? Will you be able to take their hand if they reach out to you?¡­¡±


    Those were questions his silver-haired sister asked.


    Simple questions that echoed in his heart as he recollected the shocked expression on the girl he saved from when he met his sister.


    His eyes focused on his palms as he looked for an answer, while Natsumi stared curiously, waiting for his response.


    Suddenly, for a split second, he remembered a hand reach out to him from golden fires. But he could not see beyond the fire.


    ¡ª A tiny drop of blood began to slide down his nose.


    The blonde girl slammed her hands on the table as she yelled in shock, ¡°Felix, are you okay?!¡±


    ¡°Ah, mhm, yeah¡­¡± He was snapped out of the deep thought and wiped the blood off his nose. The agent¡¯s lips quivered slightly, there was a very brief moment of hesitation. ¡°I didn¡¯t want¡­ to hurt a young girl.¡± His voice dripped with sentimentality. He did not know whether his answer was what he wanted to say, but it was the only answer he found.


    Her mouth once again gaped open at his response, three seconds pass before her expression changes to a wide smile. ¡°What¡¯s with that?¡± She broke out in laughter.


    The agent¡¯s kind expression quickly changed to one of annoyance, ¡°You¡¯re pushy, you know that?¡±


    ¡°You have some deep baggage.¡±


    ¡°Gross, what are you, some sort of therapist?¡± He mimicked her comment from before in a mocking tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m just being kind to my friends¡­ and¡­ I thought that. Maybe if I had an Elite Agent protecting me, another person wouldn¡¯t have to die.¡±


    There was a small pause before Felix replied, ¡°Is this a frequent occurrence?¡±


    ¡°Only on occasion, and never twice in a row. But¡­ never like this.¡±


    ¡°I see. So that¡¯s why you tested me earlier.¡±


    Without words, she just smiled at him. Felix closed his eyes and took another spoonful from his plate.


    ¡°So, about that sweet-tooth.¡±


    ¡°Is there a point to these questions?¡±


    The young idol smiled and placed her head on her palm, ¡°I wanna get to know more about my bodyguard. Makes him more trustworthy.¡±


    She looked at him solemnly, her eyes glistened with determination while the steam streamed out of her mug, dissipating in the still air.


    ¡°I¡ª I see.¡± He responded, ¡°It¡¯s not refined, but¡­ I can see you¡¯re doing what you can to become a suitable leader in your own way.¡±


    Felix scratched his cheek and answered her question, ¡°It¡¯s the way my mentor used to make it.¡±


    ¡°¡­you mean Luna Aster?¡±


    Taking a sip from his coffee, Felix looks to the side, purposely ignoring the question.


    ¡°You got the Aster from her, but where did the Felix come from?¡±


    Felix groaned as he put down the mug, ¡°You are annoyingly informed.¡±


    ¡°That I am. I¡¯m the heiress after all, I need all the information I can get. Siscon, huh? No wonder I couldn¡¯t get through to you.¡±


    ¡°Siscon?¡± He asked, unfamiliar with the term.


    ¡°Nothing. What about ¡®Felix?¡¯¡±


    ¡°Felix¡­ is a memento from the day I went through hell.¡±


    ¡°Sounds dark, tell me more¡­¡± She said as she parched her face on her palms atop the table.


    ¡°I would, but everything from that day is pretty much a blur. I only¡­ see it in my nightmares.¡±


    ¡°Pretty morbid. You sir, have many layers.¡±


    ¡°If this is an interrogation, you¡¯re not getting any more info.¡±


    ¡°This is an interview, not an interrogation.¡±


    ¡°Well, what about you?¡±


    ¡°So, you wanna know more about the cool and sweet Yumiko Sakurazawa of Starry Sweethearts!¡± She loudly announced, standing up from her seat, making a peace sign between her eye.


    ¡°What exactly do you know?¡±


    ¡°About what exactly?¡± She responds, sitting back down.


    ¡°Well, for starters¡­ why didn¡¯t you decide to go with your friends earlier?¡± Felix paused mid-sentence as he tried to formulate a question for her.


    ¡°They¡­ um¡­ they know not to come near me when I tell them I¡¯m getting a new bodyguard.¡±


    ¡°That... says a lot. So what happened?¡±


    Natsumi turned to the side with a nervous expression.


    ¡°Sensitive question?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯ve been¡­ problems. It¡¯s happened before, a stalker pretended to be my bodyguard. Held me at gun point and tried to use me for ransom¡­he said to give back what we owe¡­¡± Natsumi placed her hand on her chest before taking a deep, sharp inhale.


    ¡°¡­I see.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re already at risk associating with me. I don¡¯t think they can handle some of the things that I¡¯ve been through.¡±


    She looked at his solemn expression, a glowing blue that stared quietly at her.


    ¡°But the Director told us about you. The espers. How you had gifts. How you were meant to protect people.¡±


    ¡°Gifts¡­ huh?¡±


    Upon seeing Felix¡¯s reaction, she takes a big chug from her hot chocolate and slams it on the table. The popstar wipes her eyes and pops up a bright smile, declaring;


    ¡°N-no need to get so gloomy, you¡¯re with the cool and adorable Yumiko! Allow Yumiko to make your heart flutter with Yumi-Yumi-k¡ª¡±


    ¡°Stop.¡±


    ¡°Buzzkill.¡±


    ¡°Well then, not as Yumiko Sakurasomething, but as Natsumi Sakurai, the heiress of Obsidian Industries, what do you know about the alliance of the twelve agencies?¡±


    ¡°I try my best to gather any and all intel I can get about the twelve agencies. No matter how much papa tries to hide it from me, I¡¯ll have to face it on sooner or later, as someone who will eventually be the head of one of the most massive corporations there are. So I have a number of robins giving me info.¡±


    ¡°And they just give you the information you want?¡±


    ¡°It takes a lot of working around, besides, an idol¡¯s charm, remember?¡±


    ¡°Ever thought about becoming an interrogator?¡± Felix jested.


    ¡°They¡¯re not so dissimilar.¡±


    ¡°So what do you know about the alliance?¡± Felix asked in a serious manner.


    ¡°That on the surface, they appear as normal corporations. But there are espionage groups that they keep the peace in the silence and the shadows, and that they rely on favors between one another in order to promote trust.¡± She answered in a somber tone with a calm, steady stare.


    ¡°What else?¡±


    ¡°That Elite Agents like you¡­ men and women who are forgotten, or have never been known to the world, ¡°People who don¡¯t exist.¡± Act in service for mankind¡¯s benefit.¡±


    ¡°Mhm¡­ and?¡±


    ¡°That¡­ you were a human experiment. I don¡¯t know the specifics of Project ASTRAEA, so other than criminal activity. Not much.¡±


    ¡°You got the gist of what we do. I won¡¯t get into the nitty-gritty. Any robin could probably tell you what I can.¡±


    She spun her finger around the table as she continued, ¡°The truth is... I¡¯m not sure if I can handle the position of being the next head. And I think it¡¯s inhuman what they did to you. I don¡¯t think I can stomach it. Or everything else. But it¡¯s eventually gonna come to me, so it¡¯s best to be prepared now.¡±


    ¡°When that happens¡­ I¡¯ll do my what I can to keep you safe.¡±


    She smiled, ¡°Is that so? Then, I should get to bed. It¡¯s way past my curfew. Besides, the new character was released earlier.¡±


    ¡°Character?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, for a game called Grand Knight¡¯s Order. Anyway, good night.¡±


    ¡°Good night.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m heading to my room now. By the way, what sort of music do you listen to?¡± She asked with an enthusiastic smile on her face.


    ¡°I don¡¯t really listen to music, I only really know a few classical pieces.¡± Felix answered with his palm on his chin, thinking out loud.


    ¡°Dreary. Well, good night... and thank you.¡±


    ¡°Good night.¡± He waved awkwardly.


    With those words, Natsumi goes to her room, her eyes stuck to the screen as she mumbled her way towards her room. The clock was at one-thirty-eight at the middle of the night, and Felix was left to drink his remaining coffee alone and in peace.


    ¡°The real mission starts now.¡± Felix whispered to himself. He pulled out his phone, and spoke ¡°Hello chief?¡±


    ¡°Do you have anything to report?¡±


    ¡°I do, but before that, I have a request.¡±


    ~

 A Familiar Voice part 1

    Chapter 10


    A Familiar Voice


    It was the evening of the concert. The crowds raged and cheered while the performers were in their rooms. The stadium was filled with logos and symbols of the twelve agencies, and the symbol of the Golden Lion could be seen beneath the stage where the performers stood at.


    Many of the performers were still perfecting their performances, while others were putting on make-up. Many were still bracing themselves, feeling a sense of dread and excitement. Felix waited just outside the room of the idol group known as Starry Sweethearts. His arms crossed, while his right eye emitted a ghostly blue light from behind his sunglasses.


    ¡°Hey, thanks for waiting. Tonight¡¯s the night!¡±  A voice called out to him.


    With both hands on her hips, the young pop idol, Natsumi Sakurai, better known as ¡°Yumiko Sakurazawa¡± by the cheering masses, stood confidently before him.


    Her figure was silhouetted by the bright lights, wearing a frilly black and white dress with a starry pattern with a complimenting decorated mini top hat, she smirked playfully towards him.


    ¡°What do you think? Don¡¯t hold back.¡±


    ¡°You were a mess this morning, it¡¯s a little hard to believe you¡¯re the same person.¡± Felix grinned, annoying  the idol as the morning memory ran through his mind.


    His face dripped with sweat as the sun brightly shined through window walls in the living room, ¡°Forty seven¡­ forty eight¡­¡±


    As Felix counted his push-ups, the door of Natsumi¡¯s room creaked open. The pop idol walks out, wearing a depressed, sleep-deprived expression.


    ¡±¡­forty-nine¡­ fifty¡­ Good morning. Hope you don¡¯t mind, I helped myself to some of your¡­ coffee.¡±


    As he stood up to greet her, his voice slowed down as he noticed the look on the young pop idol. The bags under her eyes had gotten dark, while her face was flushed red like a rose.


    ¡°The new character was released last night and I spent all my gacha crystals to get her. But¡­ but¡­!¡± Her tears slowly escape her eyes.


    ¡°Uhm, there, there?¡± He tried to be sympathetic.


    ¡°She was supposed to put a smile on my face!¡± She quickly turned into a sobbing mess in the middle of the living room while Felix incompetently tried to comfort her.


    Felix was snapped out of the morning memory by the young idol¡¯s tight pinch on his cheek. ¡°Stop grinning, I¡¯m still mad because of that.¡±


    ¡°At least your eyebags disappeared.¡± He remarked.


    She remarked with a pout, ¡°Magic of make-up.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s amazing is how you can change appearances.¡±


    ¡°Funny you say that¡± Natsumi pulled him by the collar and whispered near his ear, ¡°Ayame over there didn¡¯t look like that back then. I snooped around and found out she had plastic surgery. Rumors say she did it for her boyfriend. Lots of secrets with that girl, apparently.¡±


    His eyebrows curled slightly, ¡°Is it alright to tell me this?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like you¡¯re really into gossip, right? It¡¯s just that¡­ faces, personalities, they change depending on what they go through, huh?¡± Her eyes narrowed and sharpened as her voice turned cold and professional.


    Felix noticed this difference and sighed, ¡°After what happened last night, I¡¯m not sure if I can keep you safe. So I¡¯ll ask you one last time, are you sure you wanna go out there?¡±


    She let go of his collar and replied with a smile befitting a pop idol.


    ¡°I don¡¯t intend to besmirch the family name over something this small, if I backed down now, people wouldn¡¯t expect much from me later on when I¡¯m the actual head of Obsidian Industries.  Besides, you stopped a sniper and ran me back home. I know you can do it.¡± She said with a reassured smile.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Felix kept silent at her response, while the cheers and excitement from the crowds grew louder. A girl in the same outfit that Natsumi wore called out to her from afar, ¡°Yumi-chan, we¡¯re almost on!¡±


    ¡°Coming, Ayame-chan~! I¡¯ll dedicate the last song just for you, so be sure to listen, Child of Stars.¡± She eagerly demanded from him.


    Felix let out an exhausted groan, ¡°Ugh, you knew about that, too?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate an idol!¡± She pointed her finger directly to his face.


    His expression softened as he yelled out; ¡°Good luck out there!¡±


    As the idol left his line of sight, his smile disappeared as he murmured to himself; ¡°Sorry, but I¡¯m here to protect you, not watch your concert.¡±


    The music began as soon as he left the area.


    Felix pressed into his earpiece and mumbled, ¡°See anything suspicious?¡±


    ¡°No, sir.¡± An unfamiliar voice replied.


    ¡°Keep observing.¡± He ordered as he continued onward.


    As he walked through the dark halls, he noticed a familiar figure by the side from the corner of his eye.


    ¡°Excuse me, Yoko-san?¡± Felix walked up and asked.


    ¡°Haruki-kun? Is something the matter?¡±


    ¡°Have you seen Asahi-san?¡±


    ¡°Asahi-kun? Why would you ask that?¡± She responded with the slightest hesitation in her tone.


    ¡°I¡¯m just curious, since I haven¡¯t seen him.¡±


    ¡°Hmm¡­ now that you mention it. I haven¡¯t seen him the whole night. Could it be that you like him?¡± Her face turned red with an uncomfortably enthusiastic smile, her hands clutched tightly together.


    With a sense of discomfort, he immediately excused himself, ¡°I¡¯m uh¡­ I¡¯m going to go look for him.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t disappear either, understood? You might just miss it.¡±


    ¡°I won¡¯t, I won¡¯t.¡± He waved as he walked away.


    As he walked through the hallways in the back, Felix pressed into an earpiece and spoke clearly, ¡°Robins, are you in position.¡±


    There was a brief, static noise that didn¡¯t last longer than half a second before a reply could be heard.


    ¡°Robin One, yes sir.¡± A feminine voice replied from his earpiece.


    ¡°Robin Two, in position.¡± And another.


    ¡°Robin Three, I¡¯m here, sir.¡±  The third one spoke with a very casual tone, and through her voice could be heard a crunching noise.


    ¡°Three¡­  are you eating?¡± Felix spoke in dismay.


    ¡°S-sorry, sir. It¡¯s just some chips, I was hungry.¡± She replied.


    ¡°Sigh.¡± His irritated groan was clear and audible in the network.


    ¡°And you, sir?¡± The first robin asked.


    He shifted his gaze to the top of the building, ¡°On my way.¡±


    The twilight was marching toward its last moments on the horizon, and the bright colors seeping through the thin spaces of the skyscrapers gradually faded as it turned to dusk. Felix climbed out to the very top of the stadium carrying a large, black case.  At the edge of the roof of the entrance, his coat dragged against strong winds.


    As he got up to the top and walked, he pressed into his earpiece once again, a short static buzz is let out;


    ¡°Report.¡± Felix spoke as he looked towards the distance with a pair of binoculars.


    ¡°Robin One, no signs of the sniper yet, sir.¡± The agent responded as she watched from atop a distant building.


    ¡°Robin Two, currently sweeping the stadium. Nothing appeared to be out of the ordinary, no bombs or explosives or anything. Nothing in the crowds either, other than some gross-looking fanatics, sir.¡± The second answered from within the stadium.


    ¡°Robin three, if I may, sir. The only suspicious behavior going on is how the Blue Phantom is requesting for back up from robins.¡± She responded, standing in the backside of the stadium.


    All three robins formed a triangular formation surrounding the stadium as per Felix¡¯s instruction.


    ¡°Let¡¯s just say a certain happy-go-lucky idol gave me the idea.¡± He replied.


    ¡°Boss, if I may be so bold, have you taken a liking to said happy-go-lucky idol?¡± The third robin lightheartedly commented.


    ¡°Well¡­ she does have an idol¡¯s charisma.¡± Felix smirked as he opened the large case.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, boss, we¡¯ll make you proud.¡± Robin three replied.


    ¡°I¡¯m counting on it. Three, what¡¯s on your visual?¡± He asked while assembling his rifle piece by piece.


    ¡°Currently sweeping the two kilometers away from you, nothing much.¡± The third robin replied.


    ¡°Tsk.¡± Felix expressed his disappointment with a click of his tongue while looking outward into the distant buildings.


    ¡°Sir, with all due respect, there¡¯s too many people to scan for and only one drone. With how sudden you requested for our assistance, it¡¯s the only one I was able to assemble and authorize.¡± She laughed dejectedly.


    Felix pressed his finger against his chin as he thought out loud, ¡°A sniper would be hiding kilometers away, shooting back is obvious, but how do you suggest capturing them?¡±


    ¡°I think the fastest way would be to get a taxi and drive there, but it¡¯d still take a lot of time.¡± The first robin spoke.


    ¡°If I leave my position, she could easily get sniped.¡±


    ¡°Then we just keep firing back.¡± The second robin spoke.


    ¡°Well, sir. You could always swing forward with your grappling hook to block the bullets.¡±


    ¡°Three, that¡¯s not possible.¡± The first robin responded.


    ¡°But I¡¯ve heard rumors that David Soldier could do it.¡± The second robin replied.


    ¡°Right?¡± The third replied.


    ¡°Are you both children? You have movies for brains. Stopping bullets isn¡¯t possible, much less doing so while in the air.¡± The first robin shouted in disbelief.


    There was a whistle in the wind and a twinkle in the dusk sky.


    Felix looked upwards and saw the crescent moon above him and clutched the necklace under his shirt and smiled. He smiled and pulled out a pale white mask from underneath his cloak. But as he put it on, there was a glint in the sky, and his body was tossed halfway across the roof.

 A Familiar Voice part 2

    There was a whistle in the wind and a twinkle in the dusk sky.


    Felix looked upwards and saw the crescent moon above him and clutched the necklace under his shirt and smiled.


    He smiled and pulled out a pale white mask from underneath his cloak. But as he put it on, there was a glint in the sky, and his body was tossed halfway across the roof.


    He rolled near the edge just above the crowds, on his earpiece spoke the worried voices of the robins asking similar questions, ¡°Sir! Sir! What happened? Are you alright?¡±


    As he opened his eyes, in front of him lay the pale white mask, sizzling with smoke.


    Felix grabbed it and got back up. His head, ringing after the blow. He took one step forward, and took a second wobbly step, almost toppling over.


    ¡°Wh-what¡­ happened¡­¡± He weakly muttered.


    On his earpiece spoke another, masculine voice, not in his command, ¡°Felix.¡±


    Recognizing the voice, his eyes widened and began to radiate with an azure glow, before turning into a scowl.


    ¡°You were shot by a drone. I disabled it just now.¡± He looked up and saw a small aircraft sinking through the sunlight.


    ¡°Who is this? How did you intercept this network?¡± The first robin asked.


    ¡°Robin Three, set your drone to North East, three kilometers from your current position.¡± The interrupting voice spoke.


    ¡°S-sir, what do I do?¡± Robin three asked Felix, both nervous and mistrusting of the intruder¡¯s voice.


    ¡°Sigh, just do it.¡± The blue-eyed agent reluctantly answered.


    ¡°Felix, he switched to a rifle.¡± The unknown voice commanded.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your help.¡± Felix¡¯s voice simmered with annoyance.


    ¡°He¡¯s loading now as we speak, what else are you gonna do?¡±


    ¡°You could always tell me where he is.¡±


    ¡°But where¡¯s the fun in that? Now, come on. Just like Luna taught you, use what you have.¡±


    Felix stood up and took off his black cloak before moving two meters to the left, just as the voice had instructed.


    ¡°Take a deep breath, he¡¯s about to fire. Incoming in three¡­ two¡­ one¡­¡±


    He positioned it forward, like a shield. Felix¡¯s legs were pushed against the rooftop as a bullet struck against his cloak, tearing a small hole into it, but not quite powerful enough to pierce through.


    ¡°Good, can you handle the next?¡±


    From within the stadium, the music began to rise as the Starry Sweethearts all stood on stage, starting their song. The crowds cheered intensely from within the stadium. His vision sharpens, his hearing heightens, and his heart begins to race. Inside his flesh coursed a current of blue electricity boiling his body.


    ¡°Felix, the next one is coming, move to the right.¡±


    The enemy sniper fired, one after the other, Felix waltzed around as he blocked the bullets using his bullet resistant coat.


    ¡°He is currently reloading. It¡¯s your turn.¡±


    With ragged breaths, Felix took a moment to collect himself. As soon as his breathing steadied, he headed to his rifle, one more round was fired.


    ¡°Oh wait, he¡¯s firing aga¡ª¡± The unknown voice spoke once more just seconds after the trigger was pulled.


    Felix turned his head as soon as he heard and saw a small flicker of light from the distance. A sharp metal clang could be heard as the bullet crashed against his gun¡¯s edge as bright yellow sparks flew over his bright, crisp blue eyes.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°Sir?!¡± All three robins yelled worriedly.


    ¡°My bad. He had one more bullet. Now he¡¯s reloading.¡± The voice replied in a smug tone.


    ¡°¡­You did that on purpose.¡± Felix grumbled.


    ¡°Perhaps¡­ I wanted you to use it.¡± The voice answered with a tone of high expectation.


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡±


    ¡°Did you just¡­ stop a bullet with your gun?¡± The first robin asked in disbelief.


    ¡°What of it?¡± Felix answered.


    ¡°Now I¡¯ve seen everything.¡±


    ¡°No wonder you¡¯re called the unfollowable Blue Phantom.¡± The third robin commented in disbelief.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you start, too.¡± Felix groaned.


    ¡°Sir. We¡¯ve found the location of the sniper. It¡¯s as he said.¡± The third robin added.


    Felix put back on his damaged coat and rushed to his rifle and moved it accordingly, and through the scope he saw his target on the other end, positioned atop a building with large, lit signs.


    He fired.


    The bullet flew a meter over his target¡¯s head and struck one of the glowing neon signs standing behind, showering hot sparks over the unknown figure.


    A glimmer of light then shined through the sparks, followed by a loud thud right behind him. The bullet was only a few feet shy of taking out the black-haired agent.


    ¡°Tsk¡­¡± Felix clicked his tongue and drew in a sharp breath. The flickering rain was distracting, but his mismatched eyes adjusted quickly. Not even five seconds past before he fired another round at the figure in the distance. This time, it struck against the edge of his target¡¯s rifle and ricocheted to his shoulder.


    Before he could even breathe a sigh of relief, the voice then instructed, ¡°You got him. Now fire again.¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t¡­¡± He replied.


    ¡°He¡¯s getting up, what are you going to do?¡±


    The agent let out a sharp, irritated noise between his teeth as he watched as his target ran into the building. ¡°Khh!¡±


    ¡°No one else is playing by your rules, Felix. To them, killing you will always be necessary.¡± The voice uttered callous words that criticized Felix¡¯s beliefs.


    From the case, Felix pulled out a grappling hook, as well as a featureless white mask that hid his vicious snarl.


    He fired it, and it shot out an iron cord that coiled unto the closest building.


    Without hesitation, Felix ran to the very edge of the roof¡¯s round slope and leapt off at the tail end as he left the stadium and swung across the skyline.


    The winds persistently tugged at the tail end of his coat, while the rest of his body was left to the mercy of gravity.


    Beneath him were the crowded streets littered with countless vehicles, which made his heart skip a beat. He dropped and rolled on the next rooftop. He slid his mask to the side and tried to still thumping in his chest, but noticed the burst of thick concrete that was no less than five feet away.


    The assailant was still after him. There was no time to rest.


    Felix then ran to the very edge, and repeated the cycle.


    The only thing keeping him from falling was metal wire of the grappling hook and his own grip on it. An icy sensation ran through the veins of his feet as he was swung among the rooftops. But he had no other option but to continue in his pursuit. To go higher. To run faster.


    A repetition of swinging across the buildings and running through their roofs. On the steady footing, his ears filled his the sound of his own heartbeat. Soaring across the skyline, his ears filled with the rushing winds and the blaring horns on the busy streets.


    ¡°You¡¯re almost there¡­ one hundred meters forty meters¡­one hundred twenty...¡± The voice remarked.


    As soon as he dropped to the next roof, Felix noticed the figure atop a distant building. His enemy was in sight, and he began to rush through, going from one rooftop to the next in under five seconds each, the line between him and certain death was a thin metal cord, straightened out by the weight of his own being.


    He could not afford to take a misstep in the morbid midair dance he trapped himself in, as he refused to kill. Not if he did not have to.


    ¡°Your target is ready to fire again.¡± The voice spoke once again in the agent¡¯s earpiece.


    Trapped in the air, the agent had no idea what he was supposed to do. But a smile flashed in his mind, and a memory resurfaced. One where a silver-haired woman was producing a crystalline amber flame from her hands.


    Both of his eyes focused, and lit up with a radiant azure.


    ¡°Now! Use it!¡±


    An azure light outlined his body as he was about to raise his palm ¡ª but he was too late. A bullet struck him straight in the mask, and the blue glow exploded into wisps as he was shot out of the sky.


    ¡°What happened? What was that sound?! Felix, come in!¡± The voice in his earpiece yelled loudly while he spiraled out of control.


    Felix opened his eyes, and expression filled with terror as he was helplessly descending straight to the streets. The sounds of the vehicles grew louder as he came ever closer.


    ¡°Felix!¡±


    ¡°Shut! Up!¡± He growled and scowled and acted before he could turn into a puddle of red paste.


    He quickly grabbed his mask that was falling right beside him, and tightly gripped the grappling hook. His body lit up once again, and from his arm flowed out a blue haze that enveloped the wire, causing it to contract like a spring coil, and shooting him across one more time.


    The agent continued onward from the pace he started.


    ¡°Felix, the target is about to shoot again!¡±


    His expression changed from panic, but just as quickly composed himself and pulled out his gun from his hip.


    As soon as there was a minuscule glint in the distance, the agent swung his broken arm upward, striking the bullet up, and as the two metals clashed, golden sparks scattered across the azure haze trailing out of his glowing eyes.


    ¡°Forty meters, twenty-five, fifteen¡ª¡±


    Felix whipped himself upward once more and stared down at the lone figure from above, masked and draped in all black.


    Their glances met, and his blue eyes locked on to his target and took aim, but he noticed that the target¡¯s gaze was still moving, following his trajectory. He realized too late that he was on a collision course with an unlit billboard of Obsidian Industries.


    Felix slapped into it like a bug on a windshield.


    He whimpered as he slipped down and fell. The giant character collapsed on him. ¡°Bollocks¡­¡±


    ~

 Song for a Stranger part 1

    Chapter 11


    Song for a Stranger


    After watching Felix slam into the brightly lit sign, the sniper ran into the building.


    Felix picked himself back up and saw that he was left with nothing more than the rifle that had been used to shoot him with. In a fit of rage, he lifted up the giant character and slammed it against the concrete roof. Alabaster sparks sprayed out behind him.


    As his breathing calmed, he pulled out his gun and entered the building.


    Walking, he kept to the walls of the corridors. There was only the sound of his gentle steps as he opened each room on the floor one by one.


    When he reached for the knob of the room, he heard a faint metallic click. Bullets suddenly fired off through the door from the closed room behind him. Felix pressed his back against the wall beside the door, his shocked expression was hidden behind a pale white mask, and his arm extended forward.


    The door suddenly slammed open, and his target had sprinted away.


    Before he could chase after him, he noticed a small metal cylinder clink under from his foot.


    He looked down and saw it spray out a thick, pale gas that quickly expanded. Felix hurriedly kicked it to the other side of the corridor, then quickly made his way through the gas, and though he had already inhaled some of it already, he was still able to move his body.


    Felix let out harsh coughs.


    He crouched down with both his palms on the ground and he looked forward with a focused glare. Like a cat on all four limbs and bolted, chasing his target and found himself at an empty hall. His legs started to radiate with a thin blue light.


    In a moment¡¯s breath, blue energy formed all around his body, transforming into a crackling blue sphere that shot him uncontrollably through hall and splitting the gas in the center.


    With a blue glow, very door through it opened with a loud boom.


    Felix stopped by smashing into the other end of the hall, breaking the wall. He groaned, upside down, but he quickly returned to form and walked slowly by each of them as he waited for the gas to subside.


    His head turned as he heard a rustle come from a room next to him.


    He stopped and cautiously entered a wide, dimly lit apartment, with violet, velvet floors and flickering lights. The glow in his eyes left a ghostly trail through the dark room with every step while his target waited from above.


    He turned his head to every corner of the room, then kneeled down to look under tables and the sofa. With the slightest creak, his target dropped from the ceiling.


    Felix rolled out of the way on the velvet floor and caught the combat knife between his target¡¯s arms, kicking him away.


    With quick, successive slashes, his target closed the distance between them, and the two found themselves in a struggle too close for comfort. With their arms clutching against each other, the target pulled back his head and struck it against his enemy.


    Felix stepped back, disoriented. He pulled out his gun as his target made a break for the door, but before he could aim, he noticed a small round object rapidly blinking below his feet.


    His eyes widen and runs for cover, the bomb quickly turning into a bright fiery explosion.


    The window wall shattered, the various cracks forming from the bomb.


    Felix convulsed as a stream of blue electricity began to move around his body. But he forced himself to get back up.


    ¡°I¡­ have to¡­¡± He grumbled out as blood poured from his head and nose.


    As he got up, his target was carried back into the door.


    This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    ¡°Fwhat vhe fuck!¡± His target cried out, his voice, muffled by the cold hand that lifted him up by the mouth.


    Felix¡¯s eyes sharpened with anticipation as his target rose up higher from the floor, to the point where his feet could no longer reach the floor. As he was pulled up, he was quickly swung back down, his head quickly slammed to the ground.


    After the man was instantly incapacitated, a deep, hoarse voice followed, praising Felix¡¯s efforts, ¡°Well done, Felix.¡±


    A man stepped forward slightly from the doorway, his face still hidden in the shadows, yet his eyes pierced through the darkness with an orange, ember glow. His silhouette stood a clear foot taller than Felix, with a well-built physique that showed even through the black tuxedo he wore.


    Felix pulled out his gun and fired without hesitation towards the silhouette by the door. But each bullet had no impact as it reached the shadows, having no effect on the man.


    He kept firing up until he was out of ammunition. He pulled the trigger one more time, only to hear a hollow click.


    The man reached his right hand out from the darkness, revealing a metal fist. And as he opened his palm, the bullets all clattered to the floor.


    Felix discarded the gun and pulled out the other one, and with it, blasted concentric waves of energy.


    With his right arm still forward, the large figure withstood the full brunt of Felix¡¯s relentless barrage while the blasts tore away the sleeves of his arms, ¡°Are you really going to waste all of your weapon¡¯s energy on me?¡±


    The tall figure walked forward into the moonlight, with pale orange hair and a chiseled jawline. On his face was a horizontal scar that ran across the bridge of his nose.


    The most striking aspect of this man was revealed ¡ª While his left arm, which carried a tied-up man, was clearly flesh and bone, the other was composed of wires and circuitry encased in a chrome shell that shined in the moonlight and wrapped in a torn sleeve from Felix¡¯s barrage.


    His sharp eyes radiated with a burning, fiery glow that contrasted Felix¡¯s eerie cold azure light.


    ¡°Just come out already.¡± Felix put his pale white mask to the side, showing his rage, ¡°David.¡±


    ¡°You know it¡¯s customary to refer to me as Black Hound during missions, right?¡±


    Felix continued to point his gun at the large man, his finger still on the trigger.


    David crossed his arms as he spoke, ¡°Put that thing away, unless you¡¯re sure you want to engage me.¡± An oppressive sensation filled the atmosphere as David¡¯s bloodlust leaked out.


    He lowered his gun, intimidated by the Black Hound¡¯s presence, ¡°And yet you called me by my name.¡±


    The thickness in the air vanished as the man replied, ¡°It¡¯s not like you have anything to hide. You don¡¯t exactly have a double life, Blue Phantom.¡±


    ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Would you like some pie?¡± David asked.


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t want any apple pie.¡± Felix sighed, already aware of what he was going to offer.


    David frowned and replied, ¡°I was in the area and heard your voice. Thought I¡¯d provide assistance.¡±


    ¡°You intercepted our communications and interfered with my mission.¡±


    ¡°I got rid of a drone that almost killed you and caught one of the assassins. You¡¯re welcome.¡± He responded as he dropped the man that was over his shoulder.


    ¡°H-hngg¡­¡± The tied-up man groaned.


    ¡°Who¡¯s that?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°He was the one you saw on the rooftop running away. The man you almost had. But your vision narrowed in on your target, and failed to see the full picture, that¡¯s why you slammed into the billboard.¡± David scolded Felix as he put down the tied-up man in his arms.


    Felix walked up to him and pulled the man¡¯s mask off, ¡°What the¡­Asahi?¡±


    ¡°H-Huh? Haruki¡­¡± the tanned bodyguard said before he took in a deep, calming breath, ¡°I¡¯m not surprised. The heiress¡¯ personal bodyguard.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ so then, you¡¯re with the Jackal.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ he forced me to do it.¡± Asahi admitted with desperate eyes.


    ¡°When was it? How?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll tell you the details later... Right now, you need to go back.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Jackal told me that if I failed, he¡¯ll kill the people I love and showed me pictures of her¡­ So please¡­ save Ayame. Please¡­ save her, bro.¡± He said with one last breath before losing consciousness.


    Felix¡¯s expression turned to worry, ¡°¡­I will, bro...¡±


    ¡°What did he...?¡± Felix mumbled out as he put his hand on his chin, wondering what Asahi meant.


    David then sighed, ¡°Do you really think they hired only two assassins?¡±


    ¡°Then this was¡­¡± His expression became anxious as he turned his focus back to the stadium, looking through the shattered window. ¡°¡­a distraction?¡±


    ¡°He was stalling for time, and you¡¯re in no condition to continue. I¡¯ll take it from¡ª¡±


    Disregarding David¡¯s words, Felix pressed on his earpiece to the other agents; ¡°Robin¡¯s one, two¡ª Arghk!¡± An intense static noise surged through the wire.


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t recommend doing that while you¡¯re near me.¡± The man pointed out as he raised his glowing, mechanical arm.


    ¡°That damn arm of yours... tsk, I¡¯ll leave them to you.¡± Felix snarled.


    ¡°Before you go. I¡¯ve heard that your power has finally awakened, have you learned how to control your power yet?¡±


    Felix glanced over to the tall man with a distraught expression.


    ¡°The power, the haze, the aura. You¡¯ve taken one step forward, but I can see that you¡¯re still using it instinctively.¡± David explained. ¡°Like the robins said, you should be able to block ten, twenty, thirty, even dozens of bullets. But you don¡¯t know how to. I will have to train you, Felix.¡±


    ¡°No¡­ you won¡¯t.¡± Felix ran out of the room.


    Left there with the two unconscious bodies, David sat down on the table in the wide room and opened up a small pastry box.


    Alone in the darkness, he slouched on the chair and watched Felix shoot up into the air from the shattered windows, ¡°Both of his eyes are finally glowing¡­ but his hair¡¯s still black.¡±


    ¡°Bollocks, huh? He really is becoming more and more like Luna¡­¡± David Soldier muttered to himself before taking a bite from his apple pie.


    ~

 Song for a Stranger part 2

    Standing on stage, Natsumi¡¯s eyes scanned the cheering crowd as she performed with her team, only to see that her bodyguard was nowhere to be found. She felt a tinge of sadness in her chest, yet her expression remained the same, knowing that Felix was still doing his job protecting her.


    But as she distractedly looked around, she nearly tripped over her own two feet, only for one of her fellow idols, Ayame to pick her up before she could fall. The two shared a smile that was not noticeable to the large audience, and continued their dance.


    Though the cold wind pushed against Felix, his face began to sweat as he glided through the buildings once again, headed to return to the stadium with one of the suspects in his arms.


    As he rushed to get back to the stadium, a voice suddenly came through the earpiece; ¡°Boss, you there?¡±


    ¡°Three, status report?¡± Felix asked with anxiety behind his voice.


    ¡°The performance is halfway through. Nothing to report.¡±


    ¡°Keep vigilant.¡± He instructed as he landed on the next roof, his eyes widening as his body stuttered over and fell to the dry concrete rooftop.


    All of those people¡­ but who could possibly?


    His thoughts had turned into a frantic mess as he remembered the sight of the crowd.


    ¡°Boss? Are you okay?¡± Asked one of the robins.


    ¡°I¡­¡± ¡®The smoke¡¯ Felix thought as he pushed himself back up. ¡®It still taking effect?¡¯


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing¡­ I might take a while to get back.¡± He replied.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    Felix ran out and fired his grappling hook once again, but as he was on his way back to the stadium, his grappling hook snapped.


    ¡°Aghk!¡± He yelled as he plopped straight down on bags of garbage between the alley.


    Bruised, burned and battered, he limped onward to the streets and hid his mask into the back of his coat, and raised his hand for a taxi.


    ¡°Stadium, floor it.¡± He said to the driver in labored breathing.


    ¡°Aye, sir.¡± The driver replied and drove at a high speed, cruising through the traffic.


    Felix¡¯s eyes furrowed as he screamed internally, ¡°Why does this driver speak English?!¡± Was added to his already cluttered thoughts.


    ¡°Robins, report.¡±


    ¡°Nothing so far, sir.¡±


    ¡°Tch.¡± He clicked his tongue in response.


    ¡°Did something happen on your end?¡±


    ¡°They had a back-up plan. Guard the heiress.¡± He ordered, pulling out a small bottle marked with a red cross.


    ¡°Guard the¡ª¡± She gulped, ¡°Sir, I probably don¡¯t need to remind you that robins are non-combatants.¡±


    ¡°I know, I just¡­ keep me updated and watch over her, okay?¡±


    ¡°Roger that. It looks like she¡¯s about to dedicate a song just for you.¡±


    This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.


    ¡°Right. I¡¯m almost there.¡± He answered as he popped a pill into his mouth.


    A figure sat backstage. It was a woman with black hair and glasses, loading a pistol with gloved hands. As she did, there was a sudden knock on the door before it was opened. A young woman with peach hair with a red pin on her chest, a red bird crossed out with an x. It was the third robin.


    ¡°Huh?¡± The figure muttered out as a sweat dripped on their face.


    ¡°Hello, I¡¯m sorry to disturb you, but¡ª¡± Said the third robin.


    ¡°Please leave immediately.¡±


    ¡°I would, but I¡¯m kind of lost and don¡¯t know where the bathroom is¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not here. Now get out before I call security.¡± The figure grew increasingly irritated and threatened the robin.


    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Asked the robin as she eyed down what the black-haired woman tried to hide.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡ª¡±


    ¡°A pistol¡­¡± The robin pressed into her earpiece and spoke, ¡°Boss, I¡¯m in the backstage, I think I found their ¡°back-up plan¡±


    ¡°What?¡± The woman replied.


    ¡°So glad I bought backstage passes.¡± The robin jested to herself, dreading for what¡¯s to come.


    When the song had ended, the Starry Sweethearts had taken a bow, and left the stage. Cheers ran wild, voices of excitement rang loud. Felix sat and shook his leg as he was stuck in traffic, while the stadium stood straight ahead of him. He gave the driver his black card, and waited for it to be returned.


    As he ran out to the back of the stadium, the guards stopped him from entering.


    ¡°Hey you, stop!¡± The guards yelled out in Japanese.


    Felix, who was struggling to stand, showed his ID.


    ¡°Please wait here while we get this verified.¡± The guard requested as he walked into the building, pinching his nose.


    ¡°I can¡¯t wait!¡± Felix growled as he knocked one of the guards out of the way. One by one, he fired his energy gun at them, knocking them all down.


    As the small-time pop idol group returned to the backstage, they were shocked to see their financial manager tussling with an unknown woman on the pale tile floor, scrambling to reach for the pistol on the ground.


    Felix rushed to the backstage despite his exhaustion, taking out one guard after the other until his energy gun had nothing left to shoot out.


    As the two struggled, the idol group all took a step back in fright, except for Natsumi.


    ¡°Miss Yoko?¡± Natsumi asked.


    ¡°H-help me!¡± Yoko replied.


    ¡°No, wait¡ª!¡± The third robin pleaded.


    Natsumi rushed to her manager¡¯s aid and pulled away the unknown woman.


    ¡°I¡¯m with Blue Phantom! This woman is¡ª!¡±


    ¡°Blue¡ª?¡± Before Natsumi could even finish her thought, her eyes widened as she realized that the gun was aimed at her face.


    But as the financial manager was about to pull the trigger, she was pushed out of the way by the woman whom she had hindered.


    Felix, who had just made it to the door, watched one of the robins fall to the ground. Robin Three had been shot in the gut.


    At the sight of this, the clutter of thoughts that filled Felix¡¯s mind all faded away one by one, until a single thread of memory remained. His sister, Luna, clutched both of his hands tightly, and gazed intently at him with her bright amber eyes. She opened her lips and asked him, ¡°If you ever meet again, will you be able to protect them?¡±


    A puddle of blood formed around his subordinate.


    Yoko aimed once more. This time, at the heiress for sure.


    Exhausted and out of options, all Felix could do was reach out his arm, ¡°NO!¡±


    ¡°Will you be able to take their hand if they reach out to you?¡±


    A loud crack filled the room, Yoko had fired gun at her true target this time.


    ¡°Because if your hands can¡¯t reach theirs¡­¡±


    Natsumi turned her head downwards, taking notice of the red mark that stained her white dress. ¡°Black¡­ Cat?¡±


    Blood leaked out of the Obsidian idol¡¯s mouth as she took a shaky step back. Her expression was a mix of shock and fear, and her own legs gave out on her.


    ¡°Then that¡¯s fine.¡±


    On the floor, she gazed at the piece of metal hanging above her own head. The bullet that would have taken her life floated in the air, coated in a small, spiraling blue shroud.


    Felix¡¯s his face gradually grew hollow, as his focus shifted from the idol, to his hand that was reaching out to her.


    ¡°Because your soul will.¡±


    His hand radiated with the same crystalline blue glow that halted the bullet mid-air, ¡°It worked¡­¡± he muttered in the smallest voice he could make. Though his expression remained the same, there was enough excitement welling inside him to form a small smile.


    Barely a few seconds passed, but there was a stifling atmosphere. At least, until a cough broke the stiff silence.


    The agent¡¯s attention was again pulled towards the idol, who was bleeding from the mouth.


    He lowered his hand, and the blue glow dissipated.


    ¡°Fe¡­¡± Natsumi eyes silently screamed how afraid she was, before collapsing into the floor completely.


    The shroud of blue light that bounded the bullet to the air dimmed and dissipated immediately after, letting out a metallic chime as it rolled on the floor, drawing a blood-stained circle on the concrete.


    ¡°Natsumi?¡±


    ~

 Song for a Stranger part 3

    The concert had not yet finished, but the young pop idol was rushed to the hospital. Felix watched with a hollow expression as two operatives dragged Yoko into a black vehicle.


    ¡°Get your hands off me!¡± She cried out in frustration, letting out a pained sob, ¡°This is all Obsidian Industries fault! They took everything from us!¡±


    As they put her inside the vehicle, she shrieked, ¡°They ruined my life!¡±


    Felix¡¯s phone as it suddenly buzzed, and as he picked it up, a holographic screen popped out and a familiar face was projected.


    ¡°¡­So, how was the concert?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°I, um¡­ Other operatives from Obsidian should be handling the mess right now. I guess you were right, I really do suck as a bodyguard.¡± Felix scratched his cheek.


    ¡°So, you fucked up big time, huh?¡±


    Feeling a twinge of shame in his heart, he replied, ¡°She got hurt under my watch, so kinda...¡±


    ¡°If it makes you feel any better, I almost died when you were supposed to be bodyguarding me.¡± She giggled to herself.


    Felix laughed dejectedly, ¡°It really doesn¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°I just wanted to check up on you. By the way, I¡¯m going to go there to pick you up tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡±


    ¡°I also wanted to visit Japan and get myself some sushi.¡± She chimed.


    ¡°Well then, tell me when you get here. I¡¯ll just escort her to the hospital one last time.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    The transmission went off, and Felix was left all alone. He gazed at his hand, and was unable to stop himself from grinning, ¡°It worked¡­ It finally worked.¡± He muttered excitedly to himself and tightly clutched his own fist.


    He then glanced up and realized that Natsumi was walking up to him, ¡°Was that the friend you spoke so fondly of? Something about her just felt¡­ off.¡±


    Silent, Felix noticed the small patch of bandage on her chest and looked at her with a sullen expression.


    ¡°Hm What? Why the long face?¡± She asked.


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t be here right now.¡±


    She turned her head towards the streets where several shining lights were, and asked, ¡°I was thinking, how about we go out tonight, too?¡±


    ¡°You should be getting treated.¡± Felix stood up.


    ¡°It just finished; the doctors said the wound isn¡¯t even a centimeter deep. I¡¯ll be fine.¡±


    ¡°Then I suggest just resting for the night, you¡¯ve had a busy day, so¡­¡±


    She tugged on his sleeve with her head lowered, ¡°¡­Today was a good day, I¡¯m sure it will continue being a good day.¡±


    Felix¡¯s hollow expression softened to a worried smile, ¡°All right.¡±


    The two walked through an empty path, no vehicles in sight, where the only noise was the fading buzz of the street lamps and the distant horns of cars. As they walked in the dark of night, the girl gestured at a small empty stall at the corner of the road, shining with a golden, warm, welcoming glow.


    The young pop idol sat and looked through the menu.


    ¡°Hmm, one jumbo parfait please! What about you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just have a coffee.¡±


    ¡°Nuh-uh. Wrong answer. Not available. Order something else.¡± She replied while mimicking a buzz sound.


    ¡°Ah, mhm. I guess I¡¯ll have a¡­ ramen.¡±


    As the bowl was placed in front of him, Felix ate it the way it was. Natsumi glanced at his direction and asked; ¡°Really?¡±


    With both eyebrows curled, Felix answers with another curious question, ¡°What?¡±


    Natsumi chuckled, ¡°Well, if you¡¯re gonna have ramen, at least try it my way.¡±


    Felix¡¯s lips curled downward with an awkward expression. His eyebrows lowered as she prepared his bowl for him. As he took a slurp from the bowl, Natsumi quickly asked, ¡°Speak thy thoughts, how is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s um¡­ nice.¡±


    ¡°It should be. So¡­about earlier.¡± She spoke softly as she placed the bowl in front of him.


    As Felix feasted on the ramen, he glances over to the pop idol gazing on him, asking ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°You know, I¡¯m surprised that Ayame had it in her. Slamming a folding chair against the manager. She was crying about it, too.¡± She giggled.


    ¡°Ah¡­ yeah, that caught me by surprise, too.¡±


    ¡°This was¡­ an eventful night. I can¡¯t imagine how it went for you.¡±


    ¡°At the very least I wasn¡¯t on stage performing in front of a thousand people. When I was in front of a crowd, I froze.¡±


    ¡°Heh¡­ was it the one eight years ago where you said ¡°I have no idea what¡¯s going on?¡±¡± She said in a well-informed manner.


    ¡°You read those documents too?¡± Felix lamented, recollecting the moment where he stood in front of a crowd. He stood on the stage, overwhelmed by the several executives and militia staring daggers at him.


    The bright flashes of light, one by one felt like an explosive to him, leaving him stunned.


    Young Felix opened his lips and spoke softly, ¡°I have no idea what¡¯s going on.¡±


    Felix recoiled from the memory.


    Natsumi then answered his question, ¡°I watched a video.¡±


    ¡°Is there anything that escapes you?¡±


    ¡°Who knows, but I always dig as deep as I can. So, the thing with the bullet.¡± She asked gently, uncertain how to go about it. ¡°So it¡¯s the real deal¡­ that¡¯s the power of an esper.¡±


    Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°I don¡¯t even know what that word means¡­¡±


    ¡°Uh-huh. Anyhow, since you missed my performance, you owe me something else.¡±


    ¡°Ah, is that right?¡± Felix shot out sharply.


    ¡°To pay me back, accompany me around the town. We finish our date last night.¡± She smiled brightly.


    The two traveled around the city. Through the night, the bright lights, and the beautiful sights, stopped only to greet the fans who recognized Natsumi under her thick, loose, black hoodie.


    When they returned to the penthouse suite, Natsumi walks inside with an exhausted smile.


    Felix sat on the counter with a calm, solemn look on his face.


    ¡°Did you have fun?¡± She asked with an enthusiastic sigh.


    The corners of his lips subtly rise, as his face lets out a gentle smile, ¡°¡­Yeah. How¡¯s the wound?¡± Felix asks, clutching his own arm.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine now. They said I should come back tomorrow for a check-up, though. Still¡­ to think that Yoko-san¡­I didn¡¯t... I really did feel safe thanks to you.¡±


    ¡°Well, I am the Golden Lion Agency¡¯s best.¡± Felix turned his head, hiding his smirk.


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t the best the ¡®Golden Lion¡¯ herself?¡±


    ¡°What was that?¡± Felix asked sharply in an unamused tone, glaring at her.


    ¡°I mean, that¡¯s what the robins s¡ª w-well, the robin¡¯s may have... been wrong. Thank you for tonight, I¡¯m glad you were my bodyguard.¡±


    His expression softens, letting out a gentle smile, ¡°I¡¯m glad you were safe, and I¡¯m sorry I wasn¡¯t able to protect you properly.¡±


    ¡°Pfft¡­What¡¯s with that genuine kind smile, it really doesn¡¯t suit you at all.¡± As she chuckled, Felix scratched his cheek, bashfully looking away.


    ¡°Since the night is young, and since you weren¡¯t able to watch my concert, I guess maybe I should sing for you.¡± She grabbed his arm and dragged him to the couch.


    ¡°I think you should go get some rest.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t stay up all night last night because my gacha roll sucked.¡± She said as she set up sheets of papers.


    She stood before him illuminated against the moonlight as she began to let out her soft voice. Her singing reverberated around the walls of the room. It was a gentle, yet unrefined tune that blended well with her cutesy, high-pitched voice.


    Felix, who was not well-versed in music, listened intently.


    As she finished singing, she sat on the chair on the other side and asked with a cheery yet tired smile, ¡°So, speak your mind, what do you think?¡±


    ¡°It was great.¡± Felix scratched his cheek.


    She pouted while holding back a restless yawn, ¡°Sounds disingenuous.¡±


    ¡°It was amazing, I just don¡¯t know how to put it. Sorry, but like I said, I really only know a little about piano music.¡±


    ¡°Well then, I¡¯m glad. I¡¯ll try to fully get you into songs one day...¡± She yawned in between.


    ¡°It¡¯s weird how you would even write a song about me, we just met last night.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not very often that I meet people who I could fully trust.¡±


    ¡°We literally just met last night.¡±


    ¡°My idol senses were tingling! But¡­ after tonight. I guess I have to reevaluate my personal biases. But to be truthful, it¡¯s been something I wanted to do for a while.¡± The volume of her voice weakened, and her eyelids began to feel heavy.


    ¡°Sing for a stranger?¡± He asked nonchalantly.


    ¡°Write a song for someone I could believe in. You did stop¡­ a bullet for¡­ me.¡± Her words slowed down as she began to doze.


    Natsumi let out one more warm smile as she finally fell asleep.


    Felix¡¯s cheek turned rosy as he scratched it, before replying, ¡°Really, you should take care of yourself, especially after tonight.¡±


    The night passed, and the Sun¡¯s light began to peer through the spaces between the buildings over the horizon. The next day came with a warm new morning. Felix stood in front of two women in front of the hospital as they all conversed.


    ¡°Sir.¡± The two women spoke.


    ¡°You all did well, I¡¯ll be sure to have you properly compensated. As for Robin three, Hotaru Nishino¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry about her behavior, it¡¯s just that the request came out of the blue, and she hasn¡¯t been working recently.¡±


    ¡°Her actions were brave and commendable. I¡¯ll be sure to put the word in for her for a bonus.¡± Felix praised her with a sad smile, as if to apologize.


    The two smiled at each other, and one of them spoke jokingly, ¡°She wanted to make the Blue Phantom proud, after all.¡±


    ¡°I just hope that she¡ª¡± He looked up to one of the windows.


    ¡°She¡¯ll be alright. She¡¯s strong, that one.¡±


    ¡°Right. By the way, give this to her. Tell her it was from me?¡±


    ¡°Chips?¡±


    ¡°But she hates this brand.¡±


    ¡°O-oh¡­¡± Felix mumbled out.


    ¡°But I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll appreciate it regardless.¡±


    ¡°You are dismissed, thank you for your efforts.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir. It was an honor working with you, sir.¡± They said with a slight bow and promptly left.


    Natsumi walked out from the hospital doors in a hospital gown, ¡°Look at you, being all friendly with the robins.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re not friends. We¡¯re strictly employer and employee.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? Well, you sure are a nice employer.¡±


    ¡°I was always taught that if I treated my tools well, they would work well.¡± Felix replied mechanically, with an eerie empty smile plastered on his face.


    ¡°I see, so that¡¯s how it is. We are friends, right?¡±


    Felix smirked slightly, ¡°Depends if you hire me again.¡±


    ¡°I see, well, maybe I¡¯ll pull on some strings and make you mine. Maybe Natsumi Aster wouldn¡¯t sound so bad.¡± She playfully teased with a snicker.


    ¡°Put a few years on you first, cheeky brat.¡± He responded in a grumpy and ice-cold tone.


    Natsumi pouted at his response, ¡°I guess I should do more research on you to pull you out of your siscon syndrome.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what that means but there shouldn¡¯t be any record of me available¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t ever underestimate an idol!¡±


    ¡°I¡ª¡± His expression softened, and he stopped before he could scold her. ¡°I see¡­ So that¡¯s how seriously you¡¯re taking this. Then, make sure you do your part when you¡¯re finally the CEO, understand? You gotta learn how to get information from people without the idol bit, someday.¡±


    With a focused gaze and a bright smile, she answered earnestly, ¡°Of course!¡±


    Without a hint of cheekiness to her, she expressed to him her determination. Felix smiled back.


    ¡°You gave me one more reason to become the head of Obsidian someday. I saw that people like you are necessary, so that more people will be saved. More people who could protect the peace.¡±


    She said as the bullet that nearly pierced her dangled on her chest on a necklace.


    ¡°Besides, I don¡¯t want corrupt people to take over papa¡¯s company.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±


    The two waved to each other one more time, and as she entered the hospital building, she flashed out one last bright smile before she left Felix¡¯s sight.


    As Felix left hers, however, she pulled out her phone and dialed a number. She then let out a violent coughing fit. She looked at her palm and saw blood dripping down her fingers.


    She then recollected the doctor¡¯s words to her as she sat on the operations table, ¡°Though the bullet didn¡¯t penetrate your body, the impact shattered two of your ribs, as well as ruptured both your lungs and nearly caused your heart to stop. You¡¯re going to have to post-pone your idol activities for at least six months to recover, but¡­¡±


    Her eyes narrowed with frustration, but her call suddenly connected, and she placed her phone on her ear, ¡°Hello, papa? Yes, I¡¯m still alive¡­ I¡¯m sorry for worrying you like that, but I¡¯m convinced.¡±


    She then covered her mouth as she coughed, ¡°We could use more people like him. Tell the Director he has our support.¡±


    When the two agents arrived back in Golden Lion Agency, they were once again dragged back into the chief¡¯s office.


    ¡°Job well done. Though it could have been better, we¡¯ve proven ourselves to Obsidian. Our funding will undeniably increase.¡±


    ¡°I definitely could¡¯ve done better¡­¡± Felix clenched his hand.


    ¡°Well, their concert is postponed, but the main threat has been eliminated. So be content with that, Felix.¡± The chief patted his shoulder.


    ¡°I think he¡¯s worried about the heiress getting shot.¡± Maria replied as she stuffed her mouth with sushi.


    ¡°Oh, speaking of, she¡¯s already made the news.¡±


    The chief pressed on the remote, and from the top corner of the room, the voice could be heard from the television, ¡°Numerous eyewitness reports claim to have seen a strange yellow light rise to the sky before the building began crashing down.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s that about?¡± Felix stared and sipped from his coffee.


    Maria tilted her head as she asked, ¡°Weird¡­ has there always been a tv here?¡±


    ¡°The pop star, Yumiko Sakurazawa, who has been hospitalized after a backstage assault, has recently announced her retirement from the idol group. Whether this is temporary or permanent has yet to be disclosed.¡± Announced the reporter on the screen.


    ¡°Retire?¡± Felix stammered in disbelief.


    The chief took a drag from the cigarette between her fingers as she repeated, ¡°She¡¯s alive, so be content with that.¡±


    Felix sighed, his expression a mix of disappointment yet acceptance as he watched Natsumi¡¯s smile through the television screen, but as he buried his face into his palm, his eyes widened.


    ¡°Hey, Chief, I think I need to talk to Professor Tetsuya.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ Granted. I¡¯ll try to make that happen soon. For now, there¡¯s something important we discovered. Maria¡­¡±


    Maria looked at Felix and spoke, ¡°Yeah, see¡­ there¡¯s a problem.¡±


    ¡°That is?¡±


    ¡°The Matrix Key¡­ is fragmented into several pieces.¡±


    Felix had a completely puzzled look on his face as he replied, ¡°I see¡­¡±


    The chief then explained, ¡°That device that can theoretically open any kind of digital lock, the amount of destruction it could create in the wrong hands will be unfathomable.¡± The Chief explained.


    The two agents hung their heads silently with stunned expressions. There was a thickness in the atmosphere as the chief uttered those words.


    She then cleared her throat, and spoke, ¡°So, onto your next mission.¡±


    ~

 Just Following Orders part 1

    Chapter 12


    Just Following Orders


    A heart monitor incessantly beeped, filling the air with an rhythmic pulse. The sharp, sterile scent was heavy in the steady air.


    Two red-eyed individuals sat on operating tables adjacent to one another. Their bodies connected to a network of wires and tubes, linked to machinery that monitored their every movement and vital sign.


    ¡°No changes, Isabelle?¡± Asked the black-haired scientist standing before them.


    ¡°Nothing in particular, Professor Levi.¡± The white-haired woman, Isabelle, answered as she got up. She took the metallic device off her head and gave him a curious stare.


    ¡°As you can clearly see, we¡¯re fine, Professor.¡± The blond one, the man who broke Maria¡¯s door, remarked as he gestured with his hand to move along.


    Professor Levi adjusted his glasses and responded, ¡°Routine check-ups are necessary to keep track of your progress, Nero. So far, a few minor things in your biology have already changed.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± Nero tilted his head.


    ¡°Indeed. Your genetic composition is adapting to accommodate the power you now possess.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, when can we have our first mission?¡± He said impatiently.


    ¡°The Director actually wanted you to go on one, but we¡¯re urging him to give us a little more time before either of you go out in the field.¡±


    His red eyes narrowed, ¡°Why? We can handle it.¡±


    ¡°Nero, could you try to use it?¡± The Professor asked.


    ¡°Ah¡­¡± He blurted out.


    ¡°Demonstrate your abilities now. Show me that you can use it.¡± Professor Levi repeated.


    Nero sighed and placed his hands close to each other. He tried to gather power into his palms.


    Light flowed outwardly from his pupils, like tides that slowly faded out as it reached the edge of his irises. A restriction that made it appear as if he had flowers in his eyes.


    One of the monitors that depicted his brain started to glow, following the glistening pattern of glitter forming inside his head.


    ¡ª But nothing came out.


    The only thing that came out was a small drop of blood from his nose, which he quickly wiped away.


    ¡°As much as we would love to record you in the field, Professor Tetsuya said that we can¡¯t afford to risk any unforeseen effects to compromise you.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯m strong enough to¡ª¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t doubt your strength, Nero.¡± The Professor quickly cut him off, ¡°I just want to be certain your new abilities will be an asset, not a hindrance. For now, please just follow our orders.¡±


    Nero cast down his gaze and clicked his tongue, ¡°What about the other two? What were their names?¡±


    ¡°Kaitlin and Grant?¡± The Professor mumbled.


    ¡°Why do they get to go on missions?¡±


    ¡°Because the higher-ups are foolish enough to let them.¡± The professor grumbled, adjusting the sunglasses that he wore, ¡°We''re trying to pull them out of the missions as much as we can.¡±


    Isabelle awkwardly scratched the back of her head, while Nero scratched his nose, feeling a tingly sensation come from it.


    ¡°Please be a little more patient, it¡¯s only been a couple of months since you both turned.¡± The professor sighed, ¡°The agencies aren¡¯t lacking in manpower. I will write a letter, and let Felix Aster take over. It will be a perfect opportunity to analyze him.¡±


    ¡°Felix Aster¡­¡± Isabelle echoed and placed her finger on her chin and muttered, ¡°I wonder what the two of them are up to right now¡­¡±


    A trail of blue light rushed through the dark mountain, emanating from the left eye of a pale white mask.


    The deafening blare of engines drowned out the sound of pouring rain as two motorcycles raced across the unfinished roads. Felix, with Maria behind him, maneuvered through the cracked, muddy pavement while their target boomed forward.


    At the edge of a veranda in an old abandoned building crouched an unknown woman with a watchful gaze. On her lips rested a cigarette that was dampened by the rain, which she gnawed on in anticipation. The howling wind brushed her brown hair, and her wolf-like eyes focused as the riders below were fast approaching on the winding road.


    On the rocky ground, as the motorcycle rumbled, Maria angrily yelled out, ¡°How the hell did he get out of prison?!¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but he¡¯s going¡ª G¡¯ahk!¡± Felix growled as Lewis threw black bags towards his direction, slamming against his mask.


    ¡°Get back here¡ª!¡± Maria yelled before a black bag of garbage struck in the face. ¡°Blegh!¡±


    Their motorcycle scrambled through the wet roads, but it was quickly enveloped in a blue light and corrected its course.


    ¡°Come and catch me, bitch boy!¡± Lewis yelled out as he threw another black bag towards them. His motorcycle had several black plastic bags attached to it.


    Felix slickly avoided the bags thrown at them, several of which exploded with a fiery blaze behind them. The lone woman grinned as she threw away the wet cigarette and leapt from the surface above them.


    He slid off his mask and yelled, ¡°V.V., grappling hook!¡±


    ¡°Grappling hook!¡± Maria smiled vibrantly as she pulled out her favorite tool.


    With a grin on her face, the unknown woman spat her cigarette and hopped out of the desolate building, aiming for one of the riders. Her body silhouetted by a flash of lightning.


    Before Maria could fire, the bright sky light blinded her.


    The unknown woman landed perfectly on the back seat of Lewis¡¯ motorcycle. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I got him!¡± She declared.


    ¡°Wha¡ª?!¡± Lewis yelled out in a panic.


    ¡°Is that?!¡± Felix at the sight of the woman.


    The grappling hook sprang out and wrapped around a nearby sign on the edge of the curving road. Maria failed to let go and was suddenly pulled away.


    ¡°Vee!¡± Felix looked back to where his partner was.


    ¡°I¡¯m okaaay!¡±


    ¡°Tch, bollocks.¡± A sharp whir reverberated from the motorcycle¡¯s wheels as he slowed down to turn back.


    On the other motorcycle, the woman smirked, ¡°Hey there!¡±


    The vehicle thrashed about as the brown-haired woman reached for the handlebars, but Lewis fought her off by throwing trash bags at her, eventually causing their motorcycle to spiral out of control.


    ¡°Marie!¡± Felix called out to his partner, before getting hit by one of the stray bags on the back of the head, which led him out of control, sliding downhill and completely passing by her.


    As Maria got up from one of the potholes, one of the stray bags struck her directly against the side of head. She fell immediately, the side of her head smashing on the pavement.


    Both the unknown assailant and the criminal found themselves on a collision course with the woman on the ground.


    The unknown woman smashed Lewis¡¯ face with the grip of her pistol and quickly grabbed the throttle, leading the vehicle away from Maria, before hopping out of it.


    Lewis, still on the motorcycle, crashed.


    Fire burst from the motorcycle as many of the black bags went up in flames. The scent of gasoline and garbage quickly permeated the air.


    ¡°I thought he only had drugs in those.¡± The unknown woman commented as she tended to the scratches on her knees.


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    A low groan escaped Felix¡¯s lips, ¡°Urgh¡­¡± He slowly opened his eyes and found himself on the cold, hard ground. His vision cleared, and saw the white mask staring back at him, standing against a piece of rubble as raindrops poured across it¡¯s eye and cheek.


    He picked it up and groaned as he pushed himself to stand, and saw his motorcycle downhill on the road incomplete road.


    But as he rose to his feet, he was met with a sudden jolt of pain shooting up from his foot that nearly caused him to tumble over. His left ankle had clearly been sprained.


    Felix then looked around and saw the burning wreckage of Lewis¡¯ motorcycle being doused in rain water, and beyond that was the body of his partner lying unconscious on the pavement.


    ¡°V.V?¡± There was a thud in his chest as panic set in, ¡°Marie!¡±


    In spite of the pain in his foot, he headed towards her. But as he took the first step, the iron-soles of his boots slid down the soaked road.


    With determined effort, he got back up and limped every step to his partner.


    As soon as he got there, he knelt down beside her and tore the plastic bag away from her face.


    ¡°M-Marie?¡± His voice cracked.


    Her eyes jolted open and she took in a deep gasp, before immediately erupting into a violent fit of coughing.


    He let out a relieved sigh, ¡°Damn it, don¡¯t scare me like that.¡±


    ¡°I uh¡­¡± She responded meekly with a hoarse voice.


    ¡°Get up, Vee. We¡¯re not done yet.¡± He said as he looked over to the fire.


    As soon as her throat cleared out and her breathing settled, the black-haired woman looked up at Felix with an unfamiliar, frail stare. ¡°I-I¡¯m sorry ¡­ um¡­ Vee?¡±


    She wiped her face. As she looked to her palm, the sight of her own blood made her shudder.


    ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for jokes, Marie.¡± He said without even turning to face her.


    ¡°Marie?¡± She squeaked out.


    Before he could utter another word, his expression showed little patience as his mismatched eyes glared at the woman in front of the flames. He placed his mask back on to intimidate her.


    ¡°Well, lookie here. If it isn¡¯t the child of stars, Felix Aster.¡± The brown-haired woman called out.


    The dark-haired woman looked around, lost in the events that were going on.


    ¡°Are you insane?!¡± He yelled out as he approached the woman in front of him.


    As she came to full view, her appearance became clearer. She stood nearly the same height he was, with dark tanned skin, patting out the scorched edges of her brown hair. She appeared older than the two partners, and on her face, just below her left eye was a barcode with the digits one-two-seven.


    ¡°No one lasts in this line of work by being sane.¡± The woman responded.


    ¡°What are you doing here, Renee?¡± He asked with a defeated sigh, sliding his mask to the side.


    ¡°A thank you would be nice.¡± The woman, Renee, replied.


    ¡°Yeah. Thanks. You tried to kill our target.¡± He scoffed.


    ¡°I did not, stop complaining.¡±


    There was a second explosion from the burning wreckage, shooting out the vehicle¡¯s parts into the air. ¡°Ah-oh, damn it¡­ He better not be dead.¡± Felix whined as he picked up his mask.


    ¡±Who is he, anyway?¡± Renee asked with a head tilted upward.


    ¡°That¡¯s classified.¡±


    ¡°Bitch, I swear to god¡ª!¡± She fired her gun and shot down one of the burning chunks headed towards her.


    ¡°Sigh, his name is Lewis Shaw¡­ a mafia capo, and one of the leads to finding their boss. Not to mention he has something we need.¡±


    Still dazed and on the ground, the black-haired girl mumbled, ¡°Felix? Child of stars¡­?¡±


    One of the motorcycle¡¯s rearview mirrors landed right in front of her, startling her.


    There was a crack in the middle that divided her reflection in two. On one side, lit by the fire, she saw the frightened expression of a lost girl looking back. But on the other half of the shattered glass, there was the face of a red-haired woman with an unsettling smile.


    Her hand balled into a fist, the fear and confusion in her face contorted into a vicious snarl. In a burst of anger, she crushed the mirror with a fist so tightly clenched that her palms bled.


    She smirked and exhaled deeply. ¡°I remember now¡­¡±


    Maria shook the blood out of her hand and looked upward towards the rainy sky, and in the spaces between the clouds illuminated by moonlight, she saw the stars shining above her. ¡°Right¡­ Children of Stars¡­¡±


    As Felix and Renee bickered, a loud snuffle could be heard from flames as Lewis had slowly stood up.


    ¡°I feel like we should be stopping this¡­¡± Felix commented while he stood still and stared.


    ¡°You don¡¯t get to call the shots.¡± Renee sharply responded.


    ¡°We¡¯re told not to get high with our own supply¡­¡± The criminal pulled out a plastic bag from under his shirt and smashed it open with his head. A white powder showered all over his face as he yelled out, ¡°But desperate times call for desperate measures.¡±


    They continued to stand and watch as Lewis grew violently enraged. He grinned as a white liquid flowed out of his mouth, ¡°Come and get me you shit-eaters!¡±


    Both Felix and Renee stared in dismay.


    ¡°Great, now he¡¯s on steroids AND coked out!¡± She frustratedly pointed out.


    With the fires burning behind him, Lewis roared and declared, ¡°I won¡¯t let you destroy what I¡¯ve built up!¡±


    ¡°Tsk, damn it.¡± The brown-haired woman nonchalantly pointed her gun towards Lewis.


    ¡°I just said we have to take him alive¡ª!¡±


    Felix grabbed on to her wrist, yet she quickly pulled her arm back, ¡°Let go of me!¡±


    ¡°Why are you so mad?!¡±


    ¡°Why are you still a whiny bitch?!¡±


    ¡°Huh?!¡±


    ¡°You think you¡¯re hot shit just cause you outrank me now?¡± She replied sharply.


    ¡°What?! This isn¡¯t¡ªWe¡¯re just following our orders!¡±


    In a scornful voice, Renee replied, ¡°Just following orders like a little goody-two-shoes? Just like that bitch, Luna?¡±


    ¡°What did you just¡ª¡± Disdain burst from Felix¡¯s voice. His body simmered with a deep blue glow as both of his eyes lit up with a bright azure.


    ¡°Ah yes, the lightshow. Did I ever tell you how eerie that is? It makes the hairs on my skin stand up. You¡¯re just another freak like Luna and David. I¡¯m curious, what did they do to make you a monster?¡± She sneered.


    Azure flames started to crackle around Felix, in bright contrast to the burning red of the fire.


    Behind the red glow, Renee continued her verbal assault, ¡°Looks like you¡¯re finally able to make use of your power¡­ How many years has it been? Ten? To think that you¡¯re the first freak and yet you¡¯re the last to learn how to them. Did you just suck that bad or was that Irish cunt just inept at teaching?¡±


    ¡°How dare¡­¡± His grip on the gun tightened.


    But the tension brewing between them deflated as Maria boldly declared, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I got this!¡±


    The black-haired woman wore her usual smile, but her body wobbled around, not even able to keep upright. As she rushed forward, Felix reached out and yelled, ¡°Be careful, you might¡ª!¡±


    Though Lewis raised his arms with an enraged glare, ready for combat, the mud beneath Maria¡¯s feet had other plans. ¡°Huh?!¡± He grunted.


    ¡°Kyah¡ª!¡±


    ¡°¡­slip.¡±


    Maria slammed into Lewis, and the both of them fell straight down the bridge¡¯s edge, and the sound of sludge splashing could be heard from the cliff below.


    The tail of the grappling hook suddenly flies upward, and Felix immediately caught and pulled the two up from the edge. As Maria got back to the concrete, she dropped Lewis and started gasping. Felix immediately turned his head, hiding his smirk from her.


    Covered in mud, her eye twitched and she flung mud towards him, ¡°Shut up!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t even say anything.¡± He replied, before letting out a sigh and calming down.


    From behind them approached the woman, Renee, and lifted up one of the black plastic bags. ¡°What¡¯s up with all of these?¡± She asked.


    ¡°He apparently mixed up his cocaine bags and his explosives with¡­ trash...¡± Maria answered.


    ¡°How?¡±


    ¡°We caught him during one of his, ugh, sessions.¡± Felix added with a hint of disgust.


    ¡°How are you okay?¡± Renee asked hesitantly with a startled expression.


    ¡°I used this guy as a shield as we fell.¡± Maria explained as she pointed down at Lewis¡¯ wounded body.


    ¡°Harsh.¡± She chuckled.


    Felix sighed, ¡°Renee, why are you here?¡±


    ¡°Following orders. Like you said. I was ordered to assist. I assisted. You¡¯re welcome.¡± She repeated in a biting tone.


    Maria turned her head over to Felix as she pointed at the brown-haired woman, ¡°Someone I should know about?¡±


    ¡°Renee Thompson, an Elite, rank sixteen on the leaderboard.¡± He explained.


    ¡°Ah, so this is her.¡±


    ¡°And who¡¯s the little girl?¡± Renee interjected.


    Felix gestured towards the black-haired woman, ¡°¡­She¡¯s my partner, Maria Readman.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure she was referring to you.¡± Maria playfully added.


    The woman let out a burst of laughter and placed her left hand on Maria¡¯s head, her arm decorated with black tattoos that said the Latin proverb ¡°Audentes Fortuna Iuvat¡±, or ¡°Fortune favors the bold.¡± Topped off by a silver ring worn in her ring finger.


    ¡°Damn, this bitch has got some attitude.¡± Renee grinned.


    ¡°Call me that again and I¡¯ll show you some of that attitude.¡± Maria responded as she slapped away her hand.


    ¡°Feisty, too.¡± Renee smiled widely before placing a tip of the gun on Maria¡¯s chin, ¡°I don¡¯t like feisty.¡±


    Renee¡¯s expression turned cold as she spoke, ¡°Maria Readman, a professional cracker with mixed-up credentials who came out of nowhere, and reached rank fifteen on the Twelve Agencies¡¯ leaderboard.¡±


    Undaunted, Maria kept up a smile and lowered the gun pointed against her, ¡°Renee Thompson, the ex-bounty hunter who caught seventeen wanted criminals, a nice record. It¡¯s a shame you lost one of your legs trying to catch your last bounty.¡±


    ¡°Tch¡­ I heard you both took down Harbinger. Good to know, I hated that posh bastard. Now let me see how much of that is true.¡±


    ¡°Stop it, both of you.¡± Felix reasoned as he broke the two apart, ¡°Renee, I thought that information was classified.¡±


    ¡°Pfft, classified. Right.¡± Renee rebuked.


    Maria interjected, facing Felix, ¡°Wanna know classified? I heard that she volunteered for Project THESEUS for that sweet cybernetic leg. Go on, tell us. How does it feel being less of the woman you used to be?¡±


    Felix took in a sharp inhale, as he tried to keep the two women at a distance from one another.


    ¡°Just, please¡­ Cool your head.¡±


    ¡°What, no thank you? I helped, didn¡¯t I?¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the help. I¡¯ll make sure to add in a few good girl points for you. We still need to cuff him.¡± Felix pointed to the knocked-out man mumbling on the ground.


    ¡°Tsk. If I don¡¯t get my credit¡­¡± She snarled as she walked away.


    ¡°Take care, now.¡± Maria slyly waved.


    Renee scowled at Maria as she passed by, ¡°You watch yourself.¡±


    A private vehicle had stopped at their location, and a number of black-suited men walked out.


    ¡°She was pleasant.¡± Maria commented as she walked up to Felix.


    ¡°A bloody little gobshite is what she was.¡± Felix blurted out in response. As she left their sight, the light in his right eye faded away, as if to calm down.


    ¡°Um, what?¡±


    ¡°Nothing¡­¡± Felix sighed, ¡°How did you even know all of that about her?¡±


    ¡°I have some level of access in the info division with my position as a cracker. But what I wanna know is why she¡¯s so angry.¡±


    ¡°She holds a grudge against Luna and David for some reason, and by association, me. Though I¡¯m pretty sure she¡¯s always like that. But it was worse than usual this time.¡±


    ¡°I guess it¡¯s her time of the month.¡± She chuckled.


    ¡°So, did he have a Key Fragment?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°Unfortunately, our lead turned out to be a dead end.¡± She turned to him and said, ¡°No need to be so nervous, it¡¯s currently useless the way it is now.¡±


    ¡°Yeah?¡±


    ¡°Think of it like it¡¯s dormant, it will wake up once you¡¯ve collected all five pieces, and no one¡¯s ever been able summon it.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Felix gave her a puzzled expression, completely lost.


    ¡°Forget it, it¡¯s just something I remembered. So anyway, that¡¯s your new mask?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I got it back in my last mission, what do you think?¡± He said as he placed it in front of his face.


    Maria wiped the mask clean, and from its white sheen reflected her own face. Her cheeks turned red on at the sight of this as she pushed the mask further on his face.


    ¡°M-Marie, what are you doing?¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ my bad.¡± She let go and her expression turned back to her normal, vibrant smile.


    He lowered the mask and asked her, ¡°So what do you think?¡±


    Maria chimed brightly, ¡°It looks good on you.¡±


    ¡°Thanks¡ª Hey, wait¡­¡± Felix lifted his hand to scratch his cheek, but stopped and squinted his mismatched eyes at her.


    Maria giggled.


    Felix hand halted before it could reach his own face, ¡°You¡¯re still sour, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°What? No.¡± She snarked.


    ¡°Whatever you say, mud bath.¡±


    ¡°Want a mud bath? Here, have a mud bath.¡± Maria grumbled as she flicked some of the mud at Felix¡¯s face.


    ¡°Speaking of baths, you¡¯d probably love one right now.¡±


    ¡°Have another¡­¡± She flicked more mud towards him.


    ¡°H-hey.¡±


    ~

 Just Following Orders part 2

    When the partners returned to their headquarters covered in mud and dirt, they were met with a pair of other agents who were walking out of the premises.


    ¡°Oh, hello Mister Felix¡­¡± A young man with dark hair greeted, carrying an orange-haired young woman on his back.


    ¡°Blue Phantom!¡± The orange-haired woman called out.


    ¡°Oh, um¡­ it¡¯s¡­ Kaitlin and um¡­¡± Felix awkwardly responded to the two.


    ¡°Rico.¡± The young man said.


    ¡°Rico, right. My bad.¡±


    Maria leaned on her partner¡¯s arm and asked, ¡°Who are they?¡±


    ¡°New enhanced humans¡­ like us.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ I should look them up.¡± She muttered to herself.


    ¡°So, what happened to you two?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°We successfully finished our first mission, so Kaitlin decided we should celebrate.¡± Rico let out an exhausted smile.


    ¡°With ice cream!¡± Kaitlin raised her fist ecstatically, even though she was clearly tired, ¡°Would you come with us?¡±


    Felix sighed and turned his head to his partner, ¡°I¡¯m not sure, Marie?¡±


    ¡°As much as I love ice cream¡­ I¡¯d rather just wash up and call it a night¡­¡± She answered.


    ¡°Yeah. Sorry, we kinda just wanna get some rest.¡±


    ¡°Ah, no. Please don¡¯t apologize. We also want to get some rest, not to mention the chief ordered us to report directly to her after our first mission. But Kait insisted, so we¡¯re putting that off for now.¡± Rico gestured goodbye to the two.


    ¡°See ya, Mister Blue Felix sir! Please have a good night¡¯s rest.¡± Kaitlin waved happily.


    ¡°Uh, thanks, you too.¡± Felix replied.


    ¡°Enjoy your ice cream.¡± Maria waved as Rico piggybacked his partner away. ¡°They seemed nice¡­ better than that bitch we met earlier.¡± She remarked.


    ¡°Don¡¯t remind me¡­¡±


    The two partners then went inside the building, and were met chief¡¯s assistant, carrying a briefcase, ¡°Good evening, sir Felix.¡±


    ¡°Murphy?¡± Felix awkwardly greeted.


    The assistant gave a short bow and placed the briefcase in his arms, ¡°Please come with me.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ we just got back. Is it another mission?¡±


    ¡°Not exactly, it was a request from the chief.¡± Murphy stated.


    Felix grabbed the briefcase and muttered, ¡°Something¡¯s telling me I¡¯m not gonna get a good night¡¯s rest.¡±


    ¡°Well, if it¡¯s a request for you, I¡¯m just gonna¡­¡± Maria yawned and stretched out her arms while walking away, not even bothering to finish her sentence.


    Murphy drove the agent to a small, pale flat building, and as the two exited the car, Felix scratched his eyes and asked, ¡°Where is this?¡± He asked, dressed in a simple white shirt as a replacement for his mud-stained coat.


    ¡°One of the Obsidian Industries research institutes.¡± Murphy replied as he flashed a lion-engraved badge to the door, causing it to open automatically.


    There was a hall at the entrance, and Murphy pulled out a phone and dialed someone in.


    ¡°Murphy. Are you there?¡± Chief Vivian¡¯s voice could be heard from the phone.


    ¡°Yes sir.¡±


    Felix looked to the window in the hall. From the one-way mirror, he saw a familiar face of a man with blond hair and tanned skin sitting in the dark room.


    ¡°See someone you know?¡± Chief asked.


    ¡°What¡¯s this about?¡±


    ¡°From one bodyguard to another, I thought you two might want to talk.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like I know anything about him.¡±


    ¡°It took a while to transfer him in secret. Now take this and go inside.¡± Chief said while Murphy handed Felix a pistol.


    Felix gulped as he took the gun with him.


    As he opened the door, the man inside looked at him with squinted eyes as the light from the outside room hurt his eyes. His hands bound to the chains on the metal table.


    ¡°Asahi.¡± Felix greeted.


    The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.


    ¡°Haruki¡­no, your real name is Felix, right?¡± Asahi asked with a weary tone, his cheeks were red and scratched, and he had a black eye.


    ¡°Put the phone on the table.¡± Chief ordered the blue-eyed agent.


    As Felix placed the device on the table, a virtual projection appeared out. The chief¡¯s figure popped out right in front of them.


    ¡°How¡¯s Ayame doing?¡± The battered man asked.


    ¡°She¡¯s fine.¡± The chief answered.


    ¡°That¡¯s good. So, you were one of those ¡°Elite Agents¡± too, huh? I¡¯m not surprised.¡± Asahi smiled slightly, his gaze still cast towards the floor.


    ¡°You know about that?¡± Felix responded curiously.


    ¡°Of course, I do¡­ after all, I wasn¡¯t able to pass the program. Three years ago, I survived the Fallen Sun Calamity in China, so I thought I had what it takes to be an Elite Agent, but¡­ This is what it takes to be one. I¡¯m jealous of how strong you are, bro.¡±


    Felix took notice of him mentioning the calamity, but as he glanced at the Chief¡¯s hologram, he chose to remain silent.


    The Chief on the other hand appeared shocked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t see why they had to go through all the trouble to bring me here¡­ or you, for that matter. My answers are going to be the same.¡±


    ¡°Hm?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll just tell you what I¡¯ve already told them. I didn¡¯t actually get to meet the Jackal¡­ I only met one of his henchmen.¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyes furrowed, ¡°A Fang?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ she was a woman with white hair.¡±


    ¡°White hair¡­? Did she¡­ have glowing red eyes?¡± Felix hesitantly added the second question, the image of Isabelle flashed in his head.


    ¡°No¡­ she was wearing a hood, but she clearly had black eyes and pale skin. She sounded Russian, and was about five foot two, I think. All she did was hand me a pre-recorded message.¡±


    ¡°What did she say, and where¡¯s that message now?¡±


    ¡°All she said was to listen to this. It was set to self-destruct as it played.¡±


    ¡°And what did the message say?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t remember the exact words¡­ but he said, ¡°I am the Jackal. Kill the heiress on the night of the concert, or Ayame dies.¡± It was very direct. He was using a voice modulator, so it¡¯s not something I can describe.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ Do you have any clue where Jackal is, or what he¡¯s planning?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t. I don¡¯t have a clue. I¡¯m sorry bro, but I was just doing what he ordered me to.¡± He answered meekly.


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°But¡­ I do remember someone with glowing eyes¡­ they were amber if I remember correctly.¡±


    Felix¡¯s heart then skipped, ¡°Did¡­ she have a red spear?¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ Sounds like you know her. I didn¡¯t even get the chance to talk to her. She saved our lives, protected us from the calamity and told us to run¡­ I tried to dig deeper, and that¡¯s actually how I found out about the Elite Agents, I wanted to be like her.¡±


    The operative looked at the pistol in his hands, which suddenly became several times heavier. ¡°Is¡­ that¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m not much of a help¡­ but there is something I¡¯ve been mulling over for a while¡­ Why the heiress? Why the concert? Wouldn¡¯t one of the heads of the Twelve Agencies, y¡¯know, be more appropriate? I came to the conclusion that¡­ Maybe it was to make a statement, they were trying to say that¡­ they could kill anyone, any time they wanted to. Even out in the public.¡±


    ¡°Nothing we don¡¯t already know.¡± The chief remarked.


    Asahi was taken aback by the chief¡¯s quick response, and lowered his gaze down to the metal table, ¡°Ah, mhm¡­ yeah, of course. I shouldn¡¯t be surprised that you do, but I guess I just wanted to say it out loud. If there¡¯s one thing I¡¯m sure of, though¡­ it was that he wasn¡¯t driven by ulterior motives, but by rage.¡±


    ¡°Rage¡­¡± The blue-eyed man echoed blankly as he stared at the gun. His hands trembled trying to hold it.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I¡¯m useless to you, but I¡¯m not lying, I swear.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then there¡¯s nothing left to talk about. Felix. Kill him.¡± The chief ordered.


    ¡°What?¡± The agent responded with a disturbed expression, ¡°Chief, that¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°You heard me, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°But, but Chief¡­ Luna¡­¡± There was a shiver in his voice.


    ¡°Are you hesitating, agent?¡±


    ¡°N-no, please. Don¡¯t¡­ I¡¯m not lying, I swear!¡± He looked at Felix with tears in his eyes, ¡°Please!¡±


    ¡°Chief, I can¡¯t! Luna saved him¡ª!¡± Felix yelled.


    ¡°That is of no concern. He said he was following orders, now you will follow mine, Blue Phantom.¡± She responded in a callous manner.


    The drum beat in the Felix¡¯s chest grew deafening as he looked at the captive.


    Asahi forcibly got up, his chair slammed on the floor as he banged his bounded hands against the metal table, ¡°Please don¡¯t kill me! Ayame! Let me see Ayame first! Please, sir! Felix! Chief! Please!¡± His wrists turned red as he pulled away from the table, but he could not break out of the cuffs. ¡°LET ME SEE YU MING!¡±


    The Blue Phantom took a deep inhale and pulled out the gun, placing it against Asahi¡¯s forehead. His cold blue eye radiated against his shadowy, silhouetted face.


    ¡°B-bro?¡± The tanned man cried weakly.


    There was a loud bang in the small, dark room. A sound that was no longer than a second. Followed by the sound of a head slamming on a metal table. The scent of gunpowder quickly filled the room. Blood began to pour down on the table.


    Felix gently put the gun on the table and wiped a bead of sweat sliding across his cheek.


    His mouth opened slightly to take in a sharp inhale. His throat suddenly tight and parched, and it became difficult to breathe.


    ¡°Have Murphy send a raven to clean up this mess.¡± The chief instructed.


    The agent walked out of the room, his white shirt now stained with red droplets, ¡°What was the point of bringing me here? You could have sent anyone to kill him.¡± Felix asked, feeling nauseated.


    ¡°I thought you might want to give your old friend a proper send off.¡± The chief answered in an insulting tone.


    There was a weight in his chest as he opened his mouth, but he then closed them as he tried to come up with response that was not driven by emotion.


    ¡°I barely knew him.¡± Were the best choice of words he could reply with.


    ¡°Yet you had trouble doing what I ordered you to.¡±


    ¡°He was¡­¡±


    ¡°He was affiliated with the Jackal. Regardless of how reluctant he was, he already knew too much. He would¡¯ve been nothing more than a liability if we kept him alive.¡±


    ¡°Chief¡­¡±


    ¡°Did your hatred fade away? Don¡¯t you remember what happened to Luna?¡±


    He clutched his necklace as his breathing became unsteady, ¡°But¡­ but¡­ Luna saved his life¡­ I don¡¯t¡­ it wasn¡¯t necessary.¡± He gulped.


    ¡°Ayame of Starry Sweethearts is dead.¡± She immediately replied.


    There was a short pause, a few seconds pass before he opened his mismatched eyes, ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°She was found drugged and dead behind an alleyway, along with two others¡­ Ayame, or rather, Yu Ming, and that man, Asahi, are both survivors from the Fallen Sun incident. They only had each other. If he found out what happened to her, it would¡¯ve shattered him. Who knows how he would¡¯ve retaliated. Do you think he would have joined the Jackal¡¯s Fangs?¡±


    ¡°I¡­see.¡± Were the only words he thought to respond with.


    ¡°Felix. You understand, don¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ Yessir.¡±


    ¡°Good, now head back to the headquarters.¡±


    As he put the phone down. He staggered over and cast his gaze to the ground, feeling disoriented.


    He broke out a deep exhale and a familiar memory flashed in his head, the voice of a woman with white hair and a four-leaf clover necklace echoed in his mind, ¡°You¡¯re a kind, good person, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°This was¡­ nec¡ª¡± Before he could even finish his words, he fell to his knees. The bitter tide of vomit rushed out his throat, staining his white shirt even further and soiling the floor in front of him.


    ~

 The Black Cat and the Golden Lion part 1

    Chapter 13


    The Black Cat and the Golden Lion


    The new morning had just arrived. With a cup of coffee in hand, Felix yawned as he headed to the training ground. He rolled his aching shoulders as he mumbled out, ¡°Stupid Matrix Key¡­ it wasn¡¯t even the right thing.¡±


    His eye bags were darker than usual as he carried himself lazily across the unusually crowded halls.


    He clicked his tongue as two people walked pass him without so much as a greeting. But his mind was still weighed down by what had happened a few nights ago. His brows curled as he felt discomfort spiraling in his chest, causing the coffee in the cup to spiral around as well.


    With a frustrated expression, he gulped it all down and crumpled the cup.


    Headed opposite his path was the chief¡¯s assistant, Murphy.


    ¡°Murphy, could you deal with this.¡± He said as he placed the crumpled cup on top of the documents Murphy was carrying.


    ¡°Ah, certainly, sir¡­¡± The old man awkwardly responded.


    Felix scratched the side of his head while wearing an irritated scowl, ¡°Why is there so much people?¡±


    On his path, he saw a heavily dressed young woman with dark brown hair holding a paper bag.


    She looked to Felix, but he paid her no mind and continued to cross the halls.


    ¡°E-excuse me.¡± The young woman called out to him.


    ¡°Mhm¡­ what is it?¡± There was a slight hint of annoyance in Felix¡¯s voice as she looked at her.


    ¡°Do you remember me?¡± She asked as she walked up and looked at him.


    She was a quiet, and somewhat gloomy looking woman. Her distinguishing features were the braids on the sides of her brown hair. Her eyes were visibly tired with dark circles under them, and spoke with a slight, raspy restlessness in her tone.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­ ah, from Cygnus, right?¡± His expression immediately softened.


    She smiled and introduced herself, extending her left hand, ¡°Carol Thomas, codename CT-2. I came to formally thank you on behalf of Cygnus Enterprise... for saving my life.¡±


    Felix let out a soft smile and shook her hand, ¡°You¡¯re welcome. I¡¯m Felix Aster, but I guess you already knew that. So how are you feeling?¡±


    ¡°Better now, but I don¡¯t think I can go out in the field yet. I¡¯d offer to go get some coffee, but I see you already have some, so please, take this instead.¡± She handed him the paper bag.


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°High-grade Hawaiian coffee. I didn¡¯t know what to get you, but from what I¡¯ve heard, I thought you might like this.¡± Her voice was soft, with a slight hint of raspiness.


    ¡°You heard right, thanks.¡±


    ¡°I wanted to show you my gratitude¡­ for, you know¡­ saving my life.¡± As soon as Felix took the paper bag from her, she blew breathily on her palms.


    ¡°Saving your¡­¡±


    The image of Asahi immediately flashed in his head, the recent memory vividly replayed in his head, ¡°She saved our lives, protected us from the calamity and told us to run.¡±


    A horrified expression formed on his face. Asahi¡¯s words made him tighten his grip on the paperbag.


    The copper-haired woman then turned her head to the side and muttered, ¡°Then, if you¡¯ll excuse me¡­¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Felix instinctively grabbed her hand, and as she looked back at him, he scratched his cheek and awkwardly tried to come up with any excuse to get her to stay, ¡°I¡¯d¡­ feel bad if you had to leave so quickly. I was headed to the training hall, but if you want to¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah, then I¡¯ll help you train.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ uhmm¡­ thanks. But¡­ you¡¯re still healing, right?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll be fine, don¡¯t worry.¡± Carol smiled softly.


    The two headed to the training ground, the path grew increasingly crowded with agents.


    ¡°To be honest, I was tasked on that mission alone, so I wasn¡¯t aware that we had back up.¡± Carol commented.


    Felix sipped from the coffee and replied, ¡°We were also on a mission, so it was actually just by coincidence that I was in the area.¡±


    ¡°Was it now?¡± She lowered her head with a gentle smile.


    As they talked, a number of people rushed between them.


    ¡°For the most part, the Chief was just glad that we finished our mission without any prob¡ª hey!¡± One of the running passerby¡¯s bumped him on the shoulder.


    ¡°Recruit, what¡¯s the hurry?¡± Felix asked in an annoyed tone.


    The recruit in question turned around, it was the girl with curly orange hair and an excited smile, Kaitlin. Up ahead, Rico stood in wait.


    ¡°S-sorry sir Felix, there¡¯s a match in the training hall! One with the second rank, so we¡¯re going to watch! Rico, wait for me!¡± The young lady hurriedly rushed to Rico¡¯s side.


    Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    ¡°A match? In the training hall?¡± He blurted out.


    Carol turned to Felix, ¡°Well then, would you like to watch?¡±


    Felix nodded, and the two headed to the training grounds with a change of plans.


    As the two made it to the crowded area filled with cheers, a vein pulsed as the two entered the training ground.


    Despite the wide area, it still felt cramped. The crowds filled the air with cheers that reached up to the bright golden brown pillars that held up the ceiling.


    He glanced all over the dirty marble floors with a clearly irritated look as he thought to himself;


    So many shoes in the training ground.


    But he immediately turned his head to the side as he smelled a familiar sharp scent, and his mismatched eyes were drawn to the trail of a gray mist.


    Felix wore an annoyed scowl, ¡°Chief?¡±


    ¡°Good morning, Felix.¡± The chief replied with a cigar in her mouth, her back leaned against the metallic walls.


    ¡°Y-You must be¡­ Chief Vivian Nguyen?¡± Carol spoke with a hint of anxiety in her tone.


    The chief tapped the ashes off her cigarette, much to Felix¡¯s chagrin, ¡°And you are?¡±


    ¡°My name is Carol Thomas of Cygnus Enterprise, sir.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one Felix assisted, I take it?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s putting it lightly. He saved my life, sir.¡±


    ¡°Not the first time an Elite Agent saves another,¡± The chief bit her glove as pulled it off, revealing a mechanical hand as she continued, ¡°So, did you come here to express gratitude?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes. I actually did, sir.¡±


    ¡°Then what favors has Cygnus Enterprise come to offer?¡±


    ¡°Chief, stop making her feel unwelcome.¡± Felix interjected. Trying his best to put his feelings aside.


    The chief shrugged, ¡°I jest.¡±


    ¡°So, care to tell us what¡¯s going on here?¡± He asked.


    ¡°See for yourself.¡± The chief pointed towards the center of the room, where three individuals fought fiercely.


    Felix looked with an expression of disbelief, ¡°Is that¡­?¡±


    ¡°¡­the Golden Lion?¡± Carol finished.


    ¡°Oh, so you know of her?¡± Chief curiously asked.


    ¡°Ah, only from the rumors and um¡­¡± Carol elaborated the little information she knew.


    Chief smirked and remarked, ¡°Yes, the pride of this agency.¡±


    ¡°Was that a pun?¡± Felix scoffed


    ¡°Unintentional, but I stand by it.¡± She shrugged once again.


    ¡°Allison Aurum¡­ She used to be the first ranked, right? Before David Soldier, but¡­ who are the two sparring with her?¡± Carol¡¯s thoughts trailed as she watched the three combatants.


    Upon hearing the name Carol uttered, however, Felix reflexively clenched his fist. His eyes fixated on the golden-haired woman who dominated the two red-eyed individuals.


    ¡°Those two are Frontier Industries¡¯ new pets, Nero and Isabelle.¡± Chief answered Carol.


    It was the two from back then, the one who broke Marie¡¯s door.


    ¡°So how long will she be here this time?¡± Felix asked


    ¡°She¡¯s only here for a visit, she¡¯s still suspended.¡±


    ¡°Suspended?¡± Carol tilted her head


    ¡°A lot of complications and issues spawned because of her¡­ And after an incident that involved Russian and American security, and well, death¡­ of important people.¡±


    ¡°How could that even¡­?¡± She meekly spoke, breathing on her palms once more.


    ¡°The twelve organizations and the government aren¡¯t exactly on the best terms as of late, and she pushed her luck¡­ Like I said, it¡¯s complicated. CIA, FBI, MI-6, all organizations we¡¯d rather not have to deal with.¡±


    The Chief groaned as she turned her head towards Felix, ¡°Sigh, two of my largest headaches stand before me in a single room.¡±


    ¡°Speaking of headaches, where¡¯s Marie?¡± Felix replied.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I sure hope she¡¯s working on her personal data.¡± The chief groaned as tried to take another puff from her cigar, but before she could put the cigar on her lips, it was already in Felix¡¯s hand.


    ¡°No shoes, smoking, or alcohol in the training ground, Chief.¡± Felix scolded as he crushed the chief¡¯s cigar in his hand.


    The chief frowned slightly and replied; ¡°Well that¡¯s just rude.¡±


    Felix walked ahead closer to the arena, and Carol mumbled out, ¡°Felix?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m gonna watch up close, I wanna see how far I still need to go. Don¡¯t you?¡± Felix smiled.


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll watch¡ª wait. Actually, um¡­ I just remembered¡±, She raised her finger upward, ¡°I have to go pick up my little brother.¡±


    ¡°Little brother? I-I see, well, take care then.¡± Felix waved awkwardly as he heard those two words.


    With a finger on her lower lip, Carol tilted her head down and asked, ¡°Before I go, is she named after the agency, or is the agency named after her?¡±


    ¡°The answer should be obvious.¡± The chief smugly shrugged her arms.


    As Felix squeezed through the crowds to watch from the front row, where he saw a familiar face sitting at the front, enjoying the show.


    ¡°So this is where you were.¡± He greeted his partner.


    ¡°Hm, what¡¯s in the bag?¡± Maria asked, taking notice of the brown paper bag in his hand.


    ¡°Coffee.¡±


    ¡°why do you have coffee in the training room?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a gift from Carol.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ the woman from Cygnus, right? I¡¯m surprised she wanted to pay you back, I expected her agency to do that.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not uncommon. People tend to repay you in different ways.¡± Felix answered as he scratched his cheek, his face slightly red. He then asked, ¡°So, how are things looking?¡±


    ¡°Well, the one who broke my door is currently having his ass handed to him on a silver, err, golden platter.¡±


    ¡°I see that. It¡¯s oddly enjoyable.¡± He responded with a satisfied sense of vindication.


    ¡°Right!?¡± She beamed excitedly, the two of them reveling in the blond man¡¯s suffering.


    Felix gazed up at the three individuals in combat, watching their battle reminded him of the battle against Harbinger. A two-against-one fight that was somehow on the one¡¯s favor.


    ¡°I¡¯ve read up about her. She¡¯s apparently Project CHIMERA¡¯s number one result.¡± Maria stated.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± He responded in a disinterested voice, still watching.


    She continued, ¡°Apparently, despite being on Project ASTRAEA, you were also involved in Project CHIMERA.¡±


    Felix turned his head to her and blurted out, ¡°Huh?¡±


    She returned a glance and asked, ¡°So, looking to take her on?¡±


    ¡°Not really up for it¡­¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to be number one?¡± She teased and poked his cheek.


    ¡°Rankings are determined on the number of missions finished efficiently, not your ability to fight.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t it a way to gauge how strong you are, then? You¡¯re the strongest, right?¡±


    Felix pursed his lips, conceding without saying a word, ¡°Maybe after their fight.¡±


    As the three battled, their styles were clear and distinct from one another. Nero¡¯s attacks were fast but direct, swiftly swinging his wooden sword, while behind him, Isabelle kept her distance and assisted in-between their clashes by throwing the rubber knives at their opponent.


    While their weapons danced and swayed, the Golden Lion¡¯s preferred weapons were her own arms and legs, countering each of their blows.


    She slid beneath Nero¡¯s staff, and promptly grabbed Isabelle¡¯s arm, knocking her out of balance and throwing her against one of the four golden brown pillars that formed their arena.


    ¡°Kyah!¡± Isabelle squealed out as her small frame smashed against the pillar.


    ¡°Isa!¡±


    Nero yelled, but as he attacked, she grabbed the end of the staff, pulled it back, then struck his forehead on the other end. As he loosened his grip, she then took hold of the staff and swung it strong enough to throw him to the ground.


    She was then about to land her knee against his throat. But before she could drop the finishing blow, her eyes were suddenly drawn to Felix, who had been pushed into the arena.


    ¡°Aye, it¡¯s your turn~!¡± Maria happily shoved him with a wide smile.


    Nero took advantage of the situation, and a faint red enveloped him, bursting from his body and threw Allison back.


    The two red-eyed guests then grabbed both of Felix¡¯s arms.


    ¡°Your turn.¡± Nero slyly grinned, holding his left arm.


    ¡°Good luck!¡± Isabelle added, holding his right arm.


    Both of them pulled him into the ring and made their way into the crowds.


    ¡°H-hey!¡± Felix yelled as his feet landed on the floor mats.


    ¡°Just now¡­ that power was¡­¡± He blurted out as he looked for the two, but they already hid among the audience.


    Felix suddenly felt an intense stare from behind, and as he turned to look at it, he saw a vision of a pack of wild lions surrounding him.


    ~

 The Black Cat and the Golden Lion part 2

    Standing on the mat ring, Felix suddenly felt an intense stare from behind. As he turned to look at it, he saw a vision of a pack of wild lions surrounding him.


    That¡¯s some intense bloodlust.


    Distracted, Felix was nearly struck in the face by a sharp haymaker. He closed his eyes and braced for impact, but the blow never came. Allison¡¯s fist stopped short two inches from his face.


    ¡°You¡¯re not the one I was fighting¡­¡± The blonde woman stood up straight, wearing a curious expression.


    Thoroughly unnerved, he gulped and awkwardly responded, ¡°I¡¯m glad you noticed, Allison¡­¡±


    ¡°Huh, and you are¡­?¡± Her expression went blank, yet her tone was curious. She stood there, emanating strength and experience. Her arms glistened in sweat, dripping through the lines of her tight muscles.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ Felix. Felix Aster.¡±


    ¡°Oooh¡­ That¡¯s a pretty name.¡±


    ¡°¡­We¡¯ve met before.¡±


    ¡°Oh, we have? I see¡­¡± She muttered dismissively.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± He awkwardly responded, ¡°You know, I¡¯m actually ranked eleventh now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, um¡­ should I congratulate you? Ranked eleventh on what?¡±


    ¡°Of the board? You know¡­ the Elite Agent¡¯s board?¡±


    ¡°Elite Agents? Oh, right. I¡¯m a part of that.¡± She lowered her head in response.


    ¡°Yes¡­ you¡¯re ranked two.¡±


    ¡°I am? Oh, right¡­¡± She turned her head left to right, looking at the crowds, ¡°So, do you want to fight too?¡±


    ¡°Actually, I was just dragged into this, but¡­¡± He stopped as he heard his partner¡¯s voice call out his name.


    ¡°Felix, Felix, Felix!¡± Maria chanted his name and raised her fist in the air. Kaitlin added her voice to the chant, cheering his name enthusiastically, and the rest of the crowd followed suit.


    From the other side of the crowd, a red-haired woman with red rabbit ears started to cheer, ¡°Allison! Allison! Allison!¡± Followed by Rico¡¯s voice.


    Kaitlin glanced at him with a curious smile, ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be cheering Felix on?¡±


    ¡°Blonde muscle mommy.¡± Rico shrugged.


    The crowds began chanting the names of the two combatants in repetition, roaring their excitement.


    Felix looked over to the golden lion staring down at him. A vision of Luna facing off against Allison flashed in his mind.


    ¡°You know what? Yes. I do.¡±


    ¡°Alright then.¡± Her soft demeanor sharpened. She took her stance, and her overwhelming presence took over.


    I hate to admit, but the woman standing in front of me right now¡­ makes me feel intimidated. No, scared. But I don¡¯t wanna back down from this. I want to beat the top dog. I will be the top dog.


    The cheering from the audience died down as Felix took his own stance.


    I guess now is as good a time as ever to see how far I¡¯ve come.


    After all¡­


    Not even Luna could beat her.


    Asahi¡¯s face flashed in his head.


    Maybe¡­ if I could beat you, then¡­


    From under the audience, the two red-eyed guests sat on the floor, catching their breath.


    ¡°Hard to believe she¡¯s not an enhanced human.¡± The silver-haired woman remarked as she gasped.


    ¡°Either way she¡¯s a monster.¡± Nero remarked as a small stream of electricity crackled on his forehead. He then turned his head towards the arena and sneered, ¡°How much you wanna bet one of them dies?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re joking, I just hope none of us get killed just by watching.¡± Isabelle worriedly frowned.


    ¡°We¡¯ll get to see what the strongest esper is really made of.¡± He grinned widely with high expectations.


    As the two watched intently, their hearts skipped a beat as a cold voice spoke from behind them, ¡°Is it that hard to tell which one is gonna win?¡±


    A bead of sweat slid down Nero¡¯s face as an immediate thought crossed his mind, ¡®This girl, how did I not notice her?¡¯


    Maria smiled confidently, ¡°Felix isn¡¯t the type of guy to back down from a challenge. That much I can tell you.¡±


    ¡°Really... wait, when did you¡ª?¡± Isabelle spoke with an awestruck tone, yet as she turned around, Maria was already walking closer to the arena.


    The chief adjusted her glasses with an amused expression, ¡°A fight between the Black Cat of Ruin and the Golden Lion, this should be interesting.¡±


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    Felix¡¯s feet bounced around the floor, waiting for the first move. He knew that taking the first strike against the lion would be a fatal mistake, even if it was just a spar.


    If Marie''s watching, then I''d better make this entertaining at least.


    He let out a sharp exhale through his teeth, and the battle began as Allison initiated the first attack. A fast, sharp jab. Felix, confident in his own physical strength, had that confidence shattered as she destroyed his guard.


    Pushed back by the blow, his hands trembled down to the fingertips.


    She followed up with consecutive vicious jabs, which made Felix¡¯s feet dig into the floor mats.


    He adapted to her jabs little by little, following the pattern of her fists, and inching towards her, looking for the chance to counter. As he slid in and under her arms, he struck. Allison arched her back, inches near the ground, escaping his fist and the gust of wind that followed.


    The lioness grabbed his head with her legs and threw him across the room.


    He rolled over the ground and he quickly got on all fours, sprinting like an animal to avoid a fist that came crashing down.


    The black cat got back up as soon as her fist cracked the ground, and followed up with a rapid barrage of his own.


    But each of his punches were easily parried. Instinctively, he threw another kick in response. Not learning from last time, she grabbed his leg and slammed him straight to the ground this time.


    His vision turned pitch-black for a moment.


    When he opened his eyes, there was a sharp ringing in his ear, but even in spite of it, he heard Maria¡¯s voice counting upward, ¡°Six¡­ seven¡­¡±


    A sharp ache radiated throughout his neck and head as he looked ahead. In front of him, he saw his opponent¡¯s unchanged, dull expression. A memory replayed in his mind, and a voice in his head told him to get back up.


    ¡°Eight¡­ And he¡¯s back on his feet, everybody!¡± Maria announced loudly, to which the crowds responded with an explosion of cheers and excitement.


    Felix staggered to stay upright, but he grit his teeth and raised his fist, signaling that he was ready to continue.


    Allison once again raised her fists, not allowing her opponent any mercy. She followed and struck once again, but as she did, Felix made an opening for himself, avoiding her strike and followed with a counter.


    Her golden locks dragged against the wind as her feet tore through the floor mat.


    ¡°That attack¡­¡± Allison muttered.


    Felix followed with a flurry of attacks. His arms were like weapons, striking and whipping at every turn, and yet¡ª Fast as they were, they were caught in her hands, and she threw herself towards him with a rock-hard headbutt.


    He reeled a step back as his head wobbled. His forehead was marked red.


    ¡°Alright, serious time.¡± Allison muttered to herself.


    She lowered her stance, not dissimilar to the one he had used against her earlier. She appeared as a carnivorous animal, tensing up moments before it springs to its prey.


    The Phantom, in turn, took back control of his body and firmly planted his feet, digging his heels and toes with desperate strength. He lifted his arm above his shoulder and tightened his fist, there was an imaginary weight as he held the shaft of an invisible weapon.


    ¡°What¡¯s he doing?¡± Isabelle¡¯s brow curled curiously.


    ¡°A spear¡­¡± The red-eyed man beside her mumbled.


    She turned to him and asked, ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°That pose... It looks like he¡¯s holding a spear.¡± Remarked Nero.


    ¡°Come on... work¡­¡± Felix muttered as both of his eyes beginning to radiate a cold, azure light. A crisp, thin blue ribbon manifested from his hand and spiraled up his arm.


    Allison took a step forward, and though his senses were heightened, she had vanished in front of him.


    His eyes widened as they gradually grew accustomed to her movements, and saw that she was crouched against one of the pillars that made the ring. But before his body could even turn around to face her, she already landed on the other one, and was preparing to jump once more.


    She moved from one pillar to another, weaving together a golden thread across the arena.


    Nero and Isabelle¡¯s heads kept turning as they followed, yet Maria¡¯s expression remained unimpressed, her irises reflected every single one of Allison¡¯s movements.


    When she finally reappeared, his eyes quickly narrowed as the inescapable blow was less than a few inches from impact.


    His memory flashed to earlier and remembered what Nero did to escape.


    A hazy blue vortex shot out from Felix¡¯s fist and spiraled throughout the hall. The crowds became deafeningly silent after a loud crackle reverberated across the room.


    The two combatants took a step back. Allison nearly toppled over, gasping and covered in scratches. Felix, however, collapsed.


    The sparring match was over, and the victor was clear.


    *


    Felix¡¯s mismatched eyes slowly opened, and found himself lying on Maria¡¯s lap.


    ¡°You know, you really have to stop doing that all-fours animal style fighting nonsense.¡± Maria pouted as she sat beside him. ¡°It¡¯s apparently leftovers from when you were involved in Project CHIMERA.¡±


    As he got up, he looked around and the training hall had become empty. The crowds have cleared up and only three people remained, ¡°M-Marie? What... happened?¡± He groaned.


    ¡°You blacked out twice, so you know, there goes my expectations.¡± She replied.


    ¡°It¡¯s not my fault you overestimate me.¡± Felix muttered with a sharp groan.


    ¡°You want to be rank one, don¡¯t you? You¡¯re supposed to be better than this.¡± She muttered with a focused stare, much to Felix¡¯s dismay.


    ¡°R-right.¡±


    ¡°Well, on the flip side, you left a Felix-shaped crater where you landed.¡± Her voice returned to the usual poppy and upbeat tone as she pointed to the floor, where his body had been buried deep into the floor mat.


    Allison walked up to Felix with a blank expression, ¡°I apologize, I took you seriously.¡±


    Felix laughed awkwardly in disbelief, ¡°That somehow both annoys me and makes me happy at the same time.¡±


    ¡°I remember now, you¡¯re Luna¡¯s brother, right?¡± She tilted her head.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m surprised you remembered.¡±


    ¡°Your attack¡­ It looked like you were throwing a spear. It was familiar.¡±


    ¡°I feel like I¡¯ve finally caught up to you, even just by a bit. Good match.¡± Felix smiled and reached his hand out.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ good match.¡± Allison muttered with a gentle smile as she shook his hand.


    But as she let go, Felix suddenly lost balance and fell to the ground. The intense shock on his body quickly caught up as he got up, and Maria lifted him over her shoulder.


    ¡°Easy there, bud.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Marie¡­¡± He then turned his head back at Allison, ¡°Think you and I can have a rematch again sometime¡ª?¡±


    As Maria helped Felix up straight, her and Allison¡¯s eyes met, and as they did, Allison quickly pounced far from the two of them.


    ¡°Huh, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Felix asked, though Maria just smiled cheerfully toward her.


    Allison¡¯s eyes sharpened immensely, with a subtle agitation in her voice she spoke, ¡°I¡¯m¡­ sorry, I have to go.¡±


    ¡°Oh, uh¡­ okay.¡± Felix waved.


    As if in a hurry, Allison left the training hall without turning back.


    Both of them watched with a surprised expression before Maria broke the silence, ¡°You land one hit and suddenly you¡¯ve caught up with her?¡±


    ¡°When I was young, I wouldn¡¯t have even dodged her first jab, now I landed a blow on her¡­ so yeah, improvement.¡± He snickered.


    ¡°Good job.¡±


    With his mismatched eyes, he gazed into his balled fist.


    What is it that I wanted to prove? That I was stronger than I was before? Or maybe I just wanted someone else to knock some sense into me¡­ or maybe I wanted something else entirely. In any case, that made me clear my head.


    ¡°So, you never told me you had a sister before. Luna, huh?¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t? I¡¯ll tell you some other time.¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡± She hummed in an sarcastic tone.


    ¡°Okay¡­ wait¡ª¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°Nobody removed their damn shoes, now the training room is dirty¡­¡± Felix expressed his annoyance.


    ¡°The janitor¡¯ll clean it up. Now c¡¯mon, the Chief is waiting for us.¡± She said as she carried him out of the room.


    ~

 Predator and Proditor part 1

    Chapter 14


    Predator and Proditor


    The two agents, Felix and Maria, stood in the hallway behind the chief¡¯s door. Still wobbly, Felix knocked and asked ¡°Permission to enter.¡±


    ¡°Granted.¡± The chief¡¯s voice called out.


    As the dark, wooden door opened, they saw two red-eyed guests sitting on one side of the table.


    A blond young man sat silently with his face placed on his palm, and a silver-haired girl sipped from the bottle in her hand.


    With a cigarette in her mouth, the chief sat atop of her table, the light outside behind her outlined her body and lit up her orange-tinted glasses, while her hand was placed atop a letter. Her assistant, Murphy, was stationed behind her with his arms behind his back.


    She blew out a puff of smoke and asked, ¡°So, how was the fight?¡±


    Felix stroked the back of his own head and groaned, ¡°The back of my head still hurts like hell¡­¡±


    The chief smirked ever so slightly, ¡°Unfortunate. That kick to the head must¡¯ve cost you a few brain cells.¡±


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t have enough to work with as it is.¡± Maria added, much to Felix¡¯s chagrin. ¡°Still¡­ the way she fought in the end¡­ it was like an unhinged animal.¡±


    She remembered as she watched Allison go berserk against Felix, blow after blow with unrelenting speed and force before finishing the battle as she took him down.


    ¡°Is that so?¡± The chief¡¯s eyebrow raised slightly at the comment before dismissing it entirely with quick efficiency, ¡°Sit down, allow me to formally introduce you to¡ª¡±


    ¡°Wait, why does she have a milkshake? I want a milkshake! Can I have a milkshake?¡± Maria faced Felix as she pointed to the silver-haired girl.


    ¡°Marie¡­¡± Felix responded with an annoyed sigh.


    ¡°Excuse me, may I have milkshake?¡± Maria approached the well-dressed man and asked.


    ¡°Certainly, Miss Readman.¡±


    ¡°Barley tea for me, please.¡± The blond young man added.


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    ¡°Sigh¡­ Coffee, you know how I like it, Murphy.¡± Felix flashed a gentle smile.


    ¡°Yes sir, they will arrive as soon as they are prepared.¡± Murphy¡¯s soft voice proclaimed as he exited the room.


    ¡°I hope we didn¡¯t seem rude.¡± The silver-haired girl pouted, twiddling her fingers.


    As the two agents of the Golden Lion Agency sat down, the chief pushed up the bridge of her glasses, ¡°A-hem. My assistant is not your butler. Now¡­¡±


    Felix raised my finger before the chief could utter a single word, ¡°Okay, before you say anything, are we gonna have to team up the two of them?¡±


    ¡°No, you are going to handle their job.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank goodness.¡± He sighed in relief.


    ¡°Why, do you have a problem?¡±


    ¡°They were the ones who made me fight her to begin with¡­¡±


    ¡°But wasn¡¯t I the one who¡­¡± Maria pointed to herself.


    ¡°Felix, Marie, this is Nero Miles and Isabelle Castella. They¡¯re from our sister agency, Frontier Industries.¡± The chief explained.


    ¡°The Blue Phantom and the Venom Vanguard. It¡¯s so nice to meet the children of stars¡ª¡± The silver-haired girl¡¯s excitement spilled out.


    ¡°Technically, the professor refers to all of you as the children of stars.¡± The papers in the chief¡¯s hands suddenly flew over their heads as she tossed them.


    Felix stood up to catch the papers, but his hands paused in the air as thin trails of red light flashed above him. Most of the papers suddenly vanished with a creasing sound.


    ¡°Hmph.¡±


    Felix heard a satisfied grunt from the other side of the table.


    He looked down and saw Nero¡¯s eyes were gleaming with bright crimson, in his right hand were the pages that had vanished. As the last page fluttered in the air, Felix swiped it away before Nero could even lift his arm.


    ¡°Hmph.¡± Felix grunted as he looked down on Nero.


    Nero¡¯s smug smile vanished and his face became unnerved with an irritated grin. Felix sat back down and placed the last page on the table.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised the unfollowable Blue Phantom was so slow.¡± Nero remarked while counting the pages in his hand.


    ¡°Why not try this again? I¡¯m still feeling sluggish after fighting the person you ran away from.¡± Felix immediately shot back.


    The air between them burst with friction from both ends. While the two young men sneered at each other, their companions were clearly dissatisfied with how they were presenting themselves. Maria nudged on Felix¡¯s rib, while the white-haired girl, Isabelle, tugged on Nero¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Glad to see you¡¯re all getting along marvelously.¡± The chief interrupted, ¡°As for the mission, they¡¯re already in your hands. These two are new, so we¡¯re holding them from the fight before we¡¯re sure they¡¯re ready. The same way Professor Tetsuya did for you.¡± She said as she looked at Felix, expecting him to understand.


    ¡°When will we be ready?¡± Nero voiced out.


    ¡°That¡¯s not up to you.¡± The Chief sharply answered. ¡°Unlike most Elite Agents, you lot are not expendable.¡±


    Felix smirked ever so subtly at the familiar conversation that he¡¯s heard probably a dozen times before. Only this time, he was not on the receiving end of the lecture.


    ¡°I actually have a question¡­¡± Isabelle tilted her head.


    ¡°Hm¡­ what is it?¡±


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t both of your eyes blue back then?¡±


    ¡°Oh, um¡­ y-yeah¡­ I¡¯m just¡­ I¡¯m still waiting for it to change completely. So¡­ new to the agency, huh? So how is it?¡± Felix asked while looking through the papers, avoiding the topic.


    ¡°We¡¯ve only been here for six months, but it¡¯s been alright so far.¡± Isabelle replied.


    ¡°Six months, huh?¡±


    ¡°Why, how long have you been working here?¡±


    ¡°My whole life.¡± He answered with a hint of hesitation


    ¡°Ah, o-oh¡­¡± She awkwardly lowered her head in response.


    ¡°Don¡¯t sound so surprised, Isa. Training often takes a whole lifetime.¡± Nero added.


    ¡°As expected from someone who claims to have served five years in the marine corps.¡± Chief crudely interjected.


    ¡°Huh?¡± He turned his head.


    ¡°Your documents are sloppy and all over the place, and has questionable credibility.¡± Chief sharply explained.


    All of them looked at him like he was caught and cornered.


    Isabelle, who was his assigned partner, had the widest eyes opened. Clearly, the girl was startled. Felix scowled a little more than usual, while Maria had more curiosity in her expression than dismay.


    ¡°What¡¯s the big deal? The twelve agencies are here to give people second chances, isn¡¯t it?¡± Nero whined.


    ¡°Second chances to those we can trust. To those we can make sure are trustworthy.¡±


    ¡°Tsk.¡± He clicked his tongue in response and looked away.


    Maria scratched her arm upon hearing those words.


    ¡°Moving on.¡± The chief placed her hand on her chin. ¡°As you can see in the documents, Frontier Industries has requested our assistance in apprehending two very dangerous criminals.¡±


    ¡°Is it Jackal or his Fangs?¡± Felix interjected.


    ¡°Jackal? Like the terrorist?¡± Isabelle gulped as she asked for confirmation.


    Nero raised his eyebrow and responded, ¡°I thought they were already taken care of?¡±


    ¡°Jackal himself is still at large. But it¡¯s unlikely that he or anyone associated with him will be there. Still doesn¡¯t mean you can let down your guard. We believe they are people who are affiliated with Lewis Shaw.¡± Chief answered.


    ¡°Oh god damnit.¡± Both black-haired agents groaned in unison.


    ¡°Among them, we believe there is a traitor. Rank forty-nine, agent Petrichor, Jason Rivers,¡± The chief continued.


    ¡°Another one?¡± Felix muttered under his breath.


    ¡°So who is he and what¡¯s he about?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Nothing special about him. But he is skilled at what he does and obeys orders. The problem is that we haven¡¯t been receiving updates from him for a while, and he appears to have falsified some reports. His recent movements have been questionable as of late, and we have reason to believe that he¡¯s been leaking private information to certain individuals, and¡­¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    ¡°According to an anonymous tip, there¡¯s a possibility that he may have a Matrix Key fragment. If he is a traitor, then he¡¯ll be there.¡±


    Isabelle turned her head and asked, ¡°Matrix key fragment?¡±


    With arms crossed, Felix remarked, ¡°I saw one of his fights during training once. He won¡¯t be a problem.¡±


    ¡°If this is all there is to it, then why are they here in our headquarters?¡± Maria pointed her fingers toward the two who sat across them.


    ¡°Right, I believe the two of you had something to say?¡± Chief said to the two.


    ¡°Y-yes¡­ um. See, how do I put this.¡± Isabelle nervously added, looking to the chief before turning to the sharp-eyed young man beside her, ¡°Nero¡­¡±


    ¡°Hrnng¡­¡± Nero grumbled. ¡°You do it¡­¡±


    ¡°Ugh, fine.¡± Isabelle stood up, facing both Felix and Maria, and humbly bowed.


    ¡°The both of us came on behalf of our agency, Frontier Industries, to formally request the both of you to take this mission in our place.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Felix¡¯s eyes furrowed, while Maria¡¯s widened, both in curiosity.


    ¡°It¡¯s as she says. This mission isn¡¯t ours, it¡¯s theirs. And it¡¯s up to you both whether you want to accept. This is how Frontier Industries would like to uphold their trust.¡±


    ¡°Whoa, we have a choice this time?¡±


    ¡°In these times of chaos, this opportunity might help build ties with our sister agency. The twelve organizations thrive on favors for one another, after all.¡± The chief stated.


    ¡°Felix?¡± Maria asked.


    Felix paused, giving a moment of thought before ultimately replying with a satisfied smirk written clearly on his face, ¡°We, Felix Aster and Maria Readman, graciously accept your request.¡±


    Isabelle let out a gentle smile in contrast to Nero¡¯s exasperated sigh.


    ¡°It¡¯s settled. Isabelle, we¡¯ll go over the contract later. The mission will begin in six hours. As of now, your targets have are hauled up in this building.¡±


    ¡°How do we know they won¡¯t change locations?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°They haven¡¯t moved in the last forty-eight hours, so we can assume that their location is a last resort.¡± The chief uttered as she lit another cigarette. Her face distorted in the stream of haze and smoke, but her ruthlessness was clear in her voice.


    ¡°And unless they have a private jet, there is no place they could escape to now that a robin¡¯s nest has formed around them.¡± Felix added as he looked at the papers.


    ¡°You have two hours to prepare, in the meantime, I suggest you all get to know each other.¡± The chief spoke in a sly voice.


    ¡°They¡¯re espers, right?¡± Maria commented.


    The chief¡¯s smirk faded as she responded, ¡°What¡­ how did¡ª¡±


    ¡°I told you to skip the foreplay. He broke my door with a pillow the other day. A pillow.¡±


    ¡°I¡ªMhm, yes. These two are the results of Professor Levi Ripley¡¯s hard work, with the help of Doctor Tetsuya of course. According to the two of them, these two are some of the new generation stage three espers.¡± The chief admitted.


    ¡°Stage three?¡± Felix mumbled out with a look of disinterest, still being the only stage four ¡®esper¡¯.


    ¡°Right, they should be able to surpass Maria¡¯s level here.¡±


    ¡°Really, you really think that?¡± Maria scoffed at the chief¡¯s remark.


    ¡°Nah, clearly we¡¯re above you.¡± Nero snidely responded.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for him.¡± Isabelle chopped Nero on the forehead.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry you have to deal with him.¡± Felix added.


    ¡°Funny. I didn¡¯t expect the Blue Phantom to be such a shrimp.¡± The blond man then taunted.


    Felix glared at the proud Nero, before sighing. Not humoring his provocation, he tried to push the topic along, ¡°So, third stage, huh? I¡¯m a fourth stage and um¡­ and my mentor was actually a second-stage.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡±


    Maria pouted and placed her chin atop her hand, ¡°Luna, right?¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah¡­ I only thought to say it now. So, you two were the only ones who survived in your batch, huh? Must¡¯ve um¡­ must¡¯ve been a rough experience.¡± Felix smiled as he looked at them.


    ¡°Actually, there were four of us.¡± Isabelle clarified.


    ¡°Only four of the twenty volunteers survived.¡±


    Isabelle quickly turned to the chief and yelled, ¡°Madam Vivian, that was classified.¡±


    ¡°Only four survived?¡± Felix¡¯s gulped, his face contorted into confusion.


    Only four? From¡­ from the Implementation?


    ¡°Yeah¡­ going through it was practically hell. I¡¯m pretty sure I came close to dying, but I clung to life and reached for survival.¡± Nero explained.


    Reached¡­ for survival. That¡¯s right¡­ wasn¡¯t I¡­ wasn¡¯t I the only one who survived?


    He heard a crackle in his ear, echoes of fire and dust rang loudly.


    ¡°Felix¡­ you alright, bud?¡± A worried voice spoke while Felix buried himself in heavy thoughts.


    He clutched his right eye as vignettes began flashing in his mind. Portions of the day where he underwent the Implementation, of when he was trapped between rubble and blood flowing through the cracks.


    ¡®Volunteers¡¯¡­ that¡¯s what the chief said, that¡¯s definitely what she said. Why would anyone ever¡­?


    ¡°Felix?¡±


    His head throbbed, and felt as though it was splitting apart.


    What is this? It¡¯s like something¡¯s blocking my memories. There¡¯s a huge wall that I can¡¯t get through. But why would anyone volunteer, when I was¡­ when we were¡­ we were trapped in that hell. It doesn¡¯t make sense.


    The vision of a hand reaching upward was a sight seared deep into his mind.


    His breathing became heavy. Both of his eyes began to glow a bright blue as the sharp ring grew louder. He clutched his head as a hand pulled him out of his sudden outburst.


    ¡°Felix!¡±


    Felix suddenly gasped, his chest tightened as he desperately tried to breathe, he stammered ¡°Ah, uh¡­¡±


    He looked up, and through his blurred vision, saw Nero wearing an unnerved expression. As he turned, Isabelle¡¯s face was even paler than normal and her mouth covered with both her palms. Even the chief, who normally kept a composed exterior, had her back against the window behind her desk.


    ¡°You were making a scary face¡­¡± Maria tugged on his sleeve with a wide worried expression.


    A knock on the door broke the silence, and as Murphy entered with tray in hand, the heavy atmosphere lightened ever so slightly.


    Felix stood up, his face dripping with sweat, ¡°I¡¯ll just¡­ I¡¯ll just go prepare my suitcase.¡±


    ¡°Actually, we¡¯ll just take these¡­¡± Maria took the two drinks, her milkshake and the coffee, and followed Felix outside.


    As he left, Murphy looked back and his face turned to shock. The ashes of the chief¡¯s cigar fall to the papers on the floor of her cluttered, messy office, like a hurricane swept by.


    ¡°We were told that he wasn¡¯t fully awakened yet¡­¡± Isabelle muttered.


    ¡°¡­ Can I have my tea?¡± Nero asked.


    The chief looked at her assistant and asked, ¡°Murphy, do you think you can take care of all of this?¡±


    Murphy turned his head to look at the surroundings, ¡°What happened? It¡¯s like a storm devastated your office, sir.¡±


    ¡°A storm, huh?¡± She sighed and slouched on her chair, her gaze cast down, staring at the small red remote in her trembling hand.


    ~

 Predator and Proditor part 2

    The sound of rushing water was all that could be heard in the washroom. Felix looked at his own reflection, his face and hair dripped with a cold water that helped him calm down and focused. He wiped the glass and gazed into his own mismatched eyes.


    As he walked out of the washroom, he noticed a familiar aroma. He was greeted by his partner who leaned against the wall.


    ¡°You alright, bud?¡± Maria asked as she handed him the cup of coffee that he had requested earlier.


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯m just¡­ just a little sick.¡± Felix wiped his face.


    ¡°Well, we already accepted the request, so are we gonna give up? Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re gonna pull out before anyone¡¯s satisfied?¡±


    ¡°Pull out? Who said we were giving up?¡±


    ¡°Mhm¡­ Sorry, that was inappropriate of me given you just had a panic attack.¡±


    ¡°What was?¡±


    Maria sighed with disappointment in her tone, ¡°So, you wanna talk about what happened just now?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ it just feels like my head began to burst for some reason, and by the time I realized it, everyone looked shocked.¡±


    ¡°Well, you kinda just went and blew your load all over.¡± Maria¡¯s face expressed disbelief at how she was unable to stop herself.


    ¡°I um¡­ What?¡± Felix looked at her with cluelessness stapled to his expression.


    ¡°I mean, your psychic power went wild earlier.¡±


    ¡°Psychic power?¡±


    ¡°That thing that makes you, y¡¯know, an esper¡­Never mind, think you can elaborate further then?¡±


    ¡°I see. So it¡¯s called psychic power?¡±


    ¡°You¡­ don¡¯t watch a lot of entertainment, do you? Still¡­ what happened just now was¡­¡±


    ¡°Something in my head just started to¡­you ever feel like there¡¯s a part of you that¡¯s missing?¡±


    ¡°You mean like when you look in the mirror, sometimes there¡¯s no face there at all, or you don¡¯t even recognize who¡¯s in the reflection?¡±


    Felix tilts his head up with a confusion, ¡°Not really¡­ That¡¯s oddly specific, are you alright?¡±


    ¡°Hey, you¡¯re the one who just had a panic attack.¡± She shrugged.


    He took a nip out from his coffee and asked, ¡°How do you deal with that?¡±


    ¡°I, um¡­ Yeah, I¡­ deal with it pretty well and um¡­¡± Maria crossed her arms as she scrambled for the right words.


    From the corridor, the two new agents walked up to the two of them.


    ¡°Hey¡­¡± Isabelle nervously spoke.


    ¡°You¡¯re both still here?¡± Felix blurted out.


    ¡°Yeah, we came here to say goodbye, and to thank you for accepting our request.¡±


    He scratched his cheek and said, ¡°You¡¯re espers, too. And my guess is that you know how to use your¡­ ¡°psychic powers¡± properly.


    ¡°Properly¡­ is a stretch, but we do know a little bit.¡± She replied.


    ¡°Can you show me what it means to be one?¡±


    ¡°Oh, uh¡­ yeah.¡± Nero¡¯s eyebrow raised slightly, taken aback by the earnest request.


    ¡°Of course, although we¡¯re still new at it ourselves. So I was told that we would train with someone called¡­ David Soldier?¡± Isabelle¡¯s eyes lit up.


    ¡°I- I see.¡± Felix responded with a hint of surprise and annoyance.


    ¡°We¡¯ll be taking our leave, see ya¡¯ pipsqueak.¡±


    ¡°Good luck!¡± Isabelle beamed and waved.


    As the two left the corridor, Maria turns to Felix, pouting, ¡°You never asked me to show you what it means to be an esper.¡±


    ¡°You were always so cryptic about it, I figured you wanted me to find out for myself.¡±


    ¡°Mhm, then how about a crash course later?¡±


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll go prepare my suitcase.¡±


    ¡°Actually, Felix¡­ your weapons.¡± The chief spoke as she approached with a white suitcase, and as she opened it, they saw two ornate handguns, one jet black, and the other chrome white, both of which adorned with a blue lining.


    ¡°Oh, pretty.¡± Maria said as she got to it first.


    Felix raised an eyebrow, ¡°Two of them?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It was Anastasia¡¯s suggestion.¡±


    ¡°Is that right? Does she want me to follow in her footsteps?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­¡± The chief paused for half a second, ¡°That¡¯s for you to decide. Test them out, see if they suit you.¡±


    He then picked up the two guns and inspected them, the white one had the word ¡°Agony¡± etched on it¡¯s ivory surface, while it¡¯s black counterpart had ¡°Misery¡± engraved on it, both of which were written in elegant blue script.


    ¡°Those are some pretty sadistic names.¡± Maria whistled.


    ¡°Don¡¯t look at me, it was Anastasia¡¯s suggestion to call them that.¡± The chief shrugged, taking no responsibility.


    ¡°What makes these any different from Ion?¡± He asked.


    You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    ¡°Like Ion, Agony shoots out waves of energy or your power. Misery, however, is an experimental firearm designed to be reshape to any ammunition you load into it, within a reasonable size of course, and can even handle firing hollow rounds.¡±


    ¡°So I¡¯ll never run out of bullets. Then what¡¯ll happen to Ion?¡± He asked as he placed the paper cup by the window, taking a look at his new guns.


    ¡°It will return to the development storage, as it looks like you used them to play baseball against bullets.¡±


    Maria glanced over to him with a nod, ¡°That¡¯s sounds accurate.¡±


    ¡°But I¡¯ll get it back, right?¡±


    ¡°The prototype will return as an obsolete model.¡±


    Felix had a disheartened expression. As Maria saw the look on his face, she protested, ¡°Can¡¯t he keep it as a memento?¡±


    ¡°It belongs to the agency. I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t give them to you.¡±


    ¡°Alright¡­¡± He let out a resigned sigh.


    ¡°As for the main difference, it¡¯s made of a special material called Aestrellium.¡±


    ¡°Sounds dumb.¡± Maria blurted out while inspecting the gun intently.


    Felix examined the white gun, his fingers traced the engraved word, and he blankly read out, ¡°Agony¡­¡±


    The chief then cleared her throat and continued, ¡°Right, the professor also wanted me to tell you that Agony is special. It¡¯s an improved version of Anastasia¡¯s gun, and that it¡¯s specifically designed to convert and handle as much power you put into it and turn it into ammunition, even while you¡¯re still learning how to control it.¡±


    With a despondent tone, he replied, ¡°¡­ I see.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a shame that Luna did not teach you how to use your abilities, but David¡¯s been waiting for you to¡ª¡±


    Felix clenched the gun and spoke in a hostile tone, ¡°Chief¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah.¡± The older woman paused, not wanting to push his buttons, ¡°My bad.¡±


    He then turned around without looking at the two of them and started to walk away, ¡°Marie, I¡¯m gonna practice at the shooting range while we still have time.¡±


    ¡°Ah, o-okay¡­¡± Maria responded.


    As Felix left, she looked to the side and saw that his coffee had sat by the window, still half-full. She then looked at the chief, twisting her foot on the floor and asked, ¡°Did something happen?¡±


    The chief¡¯s orange-tinted glasses reflected into pure white as she looked down at Maria, ¡°Felix had a mentor who disappeared three years ago.¡±


    ¡°Luna, right?¡±


    Maria gazed in silence, waiting for the chief to continue, ¡°And her partner was the Black Hound, David Soldier.¡±


    ¡°So in other words, he blames David for his mentor¡¯s disappearance?¡± She was quickly able to put together what the chief was implying.


    ¡°I think it¡¯s a little more complicated than that.¡±


    ¡°Simply for me.¡±


    ¡°Maria, it¡¯s only been a month since the two of you were assigned together. He¡¯ll tell you himself, and eventually, he¡¯ll have to come to terms with what happened. For now, I think it¡¯s best that you focus on the mission.¡±


    ¡°Right, the mission.¡± She sighed and shifted her gaze to the cup of coffee left behind.


    ¡°It¡¯s better that he tells you himself. Even if I explain what I understand, I won¡¯t be able to convey the feelings he holds.¡± The chief said compassionately.


    The dark-haired woman looked at the chief with a cold stare and spoke in a low, frigid voice, ¡°Spare me the heartwarming nonsense. I¡¯ll figure it out on my own.¡±


    Though the Chief was normally dauntless and experienced, she felt a chill crawl down her spine as Maria gave her that cold glare.


    She flipped her hair back with her right hand and started to walk away.


    As the strands fell back down, it revealed the startled expression on the Chief¡¯s face.


    From the corner of the corridor stood Isabelle. Her face was a mix of nervous and confused from what they heard.


    At the sunbathed training ground outside the Golden Lion¡¯s facility, the sound of clicking echoed from the training grounds, as Felix restlessly pulled on the triggers of his new guns. Sweat drips from his face while his tongue sticks out like a dog as he takes in heavy breaths.


    He grit his teeth, staring at the targets on the other side, untouched, unmoved, undamaged. He let out a silent growl as he tightened his grip on his new guns.


    ¡°Sooo, about Luna¡­¡± With a cup in hand, Maria approached Felix.


    ¡°Chief told you?¡± Felix said with an exhausted tone.


    ¡°I did hear Allison bring it up earlier this morning.¡±


    ¡°She told you, didn¡¯t she?¡± Felix reiterated.


    ¡°She didn¡¯t tell me enough.¡±


    ¡°You probably don¡¯t need to know more.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be the judge of that. Here.¡± She said as she gave him a paper cup.


    ¡°The coffee from earlier?¡±


    ¡°New one. Just the way you like it.¡±


    ¡°I see. I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s just that¡ª¡± He replied as he looked down.


    Felix remembered his last interaction with David, ¡°I will train you.¡± His words rang clearly in his ears.


    ¡°I think you should take a rest.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m well-rested as is.¡± Felix replied with a calm rage beneath his tone and took another shot.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough, bud.¡± She quietly whispered as she placed her hand on the back of his neck.


    Suddenly, he felt weak, his vision faded into dark, and lost consciousness soon after.


    *


    The blades of the airplane whirled as the two ascended into the skies.


    The two sat in front of each other once again on black leather seats. Maria read up on the mission documents while Felix was completely in a daze. His mismatched eyes widely stared into the distance.


    ¡°It looks like we¡¯re headed to a hotel.¡± She muttered to herself.


    ¡°Mister Aster, your coffee. Miss Readman, your mimosa and strawberry tart.¡± An attendant spoke as she placed their orders on the table. A black coffee, an alcoholic beverage, and a sweet dessert.


    ¡°Ah thank you!¡± Maria peppily responded.


    The attendant flashed a brief smile and left as soon as she finished putting their food on the desk.


    ¡°C-coffee¡­¡± He absent-mindedly replied, his eyes were open, but had no focus.


    ¡°That¡¯s right¡­ now drink up.¡± Maria smiled softly.


    The moment he took a sip of the coffee, his expression turned back to his usual scowl, ¡°Ugh, this coffee is too bitter.¡±


    ¡°Oh good, you¡¯re back to normal.¡± She replied passively.


    ¡°Hey, wait a minute, you knocked me out¡ª¡±


    ¡°I had to. You were being uncooperative.¡±


    ¡°Sigh¡­ don¡¯t do that again.¡±


    ¡°No promises.¡± She smirked.


    Felix leered over as Maria opened her suitcase. In it, displayed a gun, similar in appearance to his own.


    ¡°You also have a new gun?¡±


    ¡°Yup. Twin guns, kinda like yours. Speaking of, sorry about your old gun, though. It was important to you, right?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, I have these¡­¡± He answered as he looked at his twin guns.


    ¡°For now, until the agency replaces it again.¡± She blurted out with a hint of dissatisfaction.


    ¡°Right¡­ So how are they? The guns I mean?¡±


    She spun them around, ¡°Light, easy to hold. Bullets that could break through five inches of steel.¡±


    ¡°Odd, why didn¡¯t the development lab give me that kind of firepower?¡±


    ¡°Wasn¡¯t it because you don¡¯t kill unless ¡°absolutely necessary?¡±¡± She gestured in air quotes.


    ¡°Mhm¡­ So what are they called?¡±


    ¡°I wanted to call it Maria Junior, but they were already given names. ¡°Predator¡± and ¡°Proditor¡±. They said it was fitting for taking down the hunter and the traitor.¡±


    ¡°Better than Agony and Misery.¡± He scoffed.


    She shrugged, ¡°I still prefer knives. Guns just kill too quickly for me.¡±


    Felix looked at his twin guns, and with a contemplative expression, responded, ¡°¡­ My mentor always told me that if I had to kill, I should do it quickly and as painlessly as possible.¡±


    Maria crossed her arms with a look of mild annoyance, ¡°And yet you didn¡¯t want me to kill Harbinger.¡±


    ¡°Y-yeah.¡±


    ¡°You were only prolonging his suffering, you know?¡±


    He gulped, ¡°Yeah, I know¡­¡±


    The conversation turned silent once again as it was left at that. Felix returned to scouring through the holographic screen.


    ¡°That¡¯s odd¡­ it says here that location is an abandoned building in a bustling city, but their current position is¡­¡± Maria remarked as she zoomed into the screen.


    **


    Felix prepared his gear, placing his new twin guns into the holsters under his coat. As they hovered closer to the location, Maria gulped as she watched him put on goggles.


    With the wind caught in their throats, the two of them were forced to yell as the airplanes¡¯ opened its hatch.


    ¡°WE¡¯RE JUMPING TO THEIR HIDEOUT?!¡± Maria shrieked at the top of her lungs, clinging on the other side of the airplane.


    ¡°YES.¡± Felix replied as he placed the goggles above her head and dragged her closer.


    ¡°ISN¡¯T THIS REALLY DANGEROUS?!¡± Maria clutched Felix¡¯s arm.


    ¡°PROBABLY.¡± He answered against the strong whirling gust against his cheeks as he pulled her closer to the hatch.


    ¡°I WASN¡¯T TRAINED FOR THIS!¡±


    He turned to her with a shocked expression, ¡°HOW CAN YOU NOT BE?!¡±


    ¡°REASONS!¡±


    ¡°WE DON¡¯T HAVE A CHOICE! WE¡®RE ABOUT TO MISS OUR JUMP!¡± Felix grabbed her waist and pulled her down with him.


    ¡°NOOOOOOO!¡± Her scream faded into the atmosphere as the two of them plummeted together.


    ~

 Phantom and Jester part 1

    Chapter 15


    Phantom and Jester


    Maria clung tightly to Felix¡¯s arm like a cat to a bath, while her deafening screams were drowned out slightly by the wind rushing against them.


    As they got closer to the building, Felix readied to pull the pin on his parachute. Maria, on the other hand, hurriedly opened up hers, causing her to launch upward by the wind and leaving her airborne for a little while longer.


    Felix had touched down, and his parachute followed. He lifted his goggles and stood in wait while Maria slowly floated toward him, unaware of the mechanical eyes that had watched them floating from above. Cameras zooming in on them as they reached the roof.


    He had a wide grin on his face as he helped her down, her eyes were sealed shut with panic.


    As soon as she felt the ground beneath her, she looked away with a flustered expression and yelled in a shivering voice, ¡°Shut up!¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t even say anything.¡± Though he did not utter a single word before this, his wide grin gave away all that needed to be said.


    She slowly looked at him with teary, flustered eyes.


    As she did, she noticed a glint in the distance. She pushed Felix to the ground, ¡°Get down!¡±


    The concrete ground was suddenly riddled with bullets. As the two got back up, Felix saw from the corner of his eye the armed drone floating above them while it prepared to fire once more.


    On the ground, he drew out one of his guns and fired, but every round missed the small target and disappeared into the sky. Before Felix could reload, Maria drew out one of her knives and flung it towards the moving target. The knife spun and made a sharp turn midair, and struck the drone right in its center.


    ¡°That¡­¡± She said, looking to Felix, ¡°¡­is what it means to be an esper.¡±


    ¡°But I didn¡¯t learn anything.¡± He responded.


    Maria pouted, ¡°Oh.¡±


    ¡°Come on, no time to waste.¡±


    The two agents walked to the door, Felix gestured for Maria to stop where she stood, ¡°Wait, it¡¯s probably boobytrapped.¡±


    Maria snickered in response.


    He stood at the side of the door as he reached for the knob while Maria waited beside him.


    ¡°Mhm?¡± Felix jiggled the knob.


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s, uh, it¡¯s locked. I don¡¯t have anything to pick lock it with. Bring out your grappling hook, let¡¯s look for another entrance.¡±


    ¡°Or break this one down.¡±


    ¡°Oh¡­ right, stand back.¡±


    Felix pulled out the gun from under his coat, but before he could take aim, Maria whispered, ¡°The thing you need to know is that being an enhanced human, an ¡°esper¡±¡ª¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± He glanced over to her to hear what she had to say, but she came rushing toward the metal door.


    With a loud bang, the metal door suddenly crashed inward to the building. A cold sweat dripped through Felix¡¯s face as he slowly turned and saw Maria¡¯s leg steadily hanging from her kick.


    ¡°¡ªIs that it lets you do things no one else can.¡± Maria smirked.


    ¡°What just¡ª?¡±


    Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    ¡°No time to waste, right? After you~¡± She replied with one hand on her chest and the other pointed to the entrance.


    ¡°Th-that¡¯s not¡ªWe should try this again.¡±


    ¡°Aww, Felix. This isn¡¯t a competition. If it were, then I¡¯ve already won.¡± Maria answered sweetly, much to his chagrin.


    As the two reached the hallway, Felix extended his arm in front of her and said; ¡°It¡¯s possible that they¡¯ve set traps all over the building.¡±


    ¡°I suppose bullets are just gonna fly from all over the corridors?¡±


    ¡°They did earlier, didn¡¯t they?¡±


    She shrugged her arms and suggested, ¡°Alright, so split up to cover more area?¡±


    ¡°Right, be careful. Good luck.¡± Felix answered as he put on his mask.


    ¡°And leave nothing to chance.¡± She smiled.


    They nodded to each other and took different directions. They dashed through the bright, peach hallways with a single bound.


    The two agents became nothing more than a dark flicker on the surveillance cameras, all while a figure gazed over them.


    Maria traveled through the corridors, where she noticed a silhouette from the other corridor. She quickened her pace, but as she followed the shadows, she found herself at the entrance of the indoor parking lot. The air was damp, and the green lights were hazy.


    She brought out her gun in one hand, and her knife in the other, and sought out the shadows that moved in between the wreckage. Yet as she took a step forward, there was a thick, metal noise that caught her attention. As she looked down, fires and shrapnel suddenly burst out right in front of her.


    Felix stopped in his tracks as he heard a sound coming from one of the rooms in the hall.


    He approached the door as quietly as he could and slowly opened the door.


    Immediately he noticed that the scent inside was foul.


    It was dark, but there were pale green lights seeping into the room through the window shades.


    The black-haired agent looked down and noticed the flowing red fluid that flooded up the floor. As he went further into the room, it did not take long for him to find the source.


    On the bed, where the sheets leaked blood, he found three bodies piled up above one another.


    He hesitantly came closer towards them to investigate, and saw that they were all riddled with bullets, as he slowly searched their bodies, he noticed something small glinting ¨C it was a pin with a red bird symbol marked with a red ¡®x¡¯, hidden in the stains.


    Felix put his mask to the side of his head and muttered, ¡°Robins¡­what happened?¡±


    A loud banging suddenly came from the white, wooden wardrobe from the corner of the room, Felix brought out his white gun and aimed it.


    He was ready for battle, but a sense of dread made him feel uneasy as he approached the wardrobe. As he took a step forward, he felt a crunch underneath his foot.


    He then lowered his nervous gaze and saw a crushed syringe near his foot. A drop of sweat had formed on his face and slid down his cheek.


    The broken syringe gave him visions of a golden fire that burned through every other one of his thoughts. He shook his head as he saw Professor Tetsuya¡¯s desperate expression, and a child with golden hair reaching out to him.


    ¡°Not now.¡± He muttered in a frustrated voice.


    A man burst out from the wardrobe and tackled him to the ground.


    ¡°What¡ª?! Get off of me!¡± Felix yelled out in a panic.


    The man¡¯s face got up and close to the Elite Agent¡¯s, with wide red eyes and dark bags underneath.


    He growled and kept Felix pinned to the ground while a putrid string of saliva flowed out of his mouth, dripping against Felix¡¯s cheek.


    In panic, Felix smashed his forehead against the man¡¯s jaw.


    As the man moved back and clutched his mouth, Felix grabbed his arms and threw the man over the bed and slammed over the corpses stacked over it.


    ¡°Eww¡­¡± He quickly wiped off his cheek in disgust.


    The man growled, foaming in the mouth, and rushed back at him. But Felix quickly grabbed his white gun and shot him, stunning the man in place.


    ¡°Who are you? Were you the one who did this?¡± Felix huffed out as he quickly got back up.


    ¡°M-more¡­ give¡ª give me m-more!¡± The man growled out as he pushed through and pounced back at him. ¡°MORITZ!¡±


    Felix instinctively pulled out his black gun, and with a big bright burst, the man was slammed against the wall, while the recoil threw him back against the other wall. The powerful impact caused the lightbulb to flicker and buzz.


    ¡°Tsk.¡± He clicked his tongue, still unnerved by the sudden assault. ¡°Bollocks.¡±


    Felix got up and he calmed his breathing before approaching the man¡¯s body. He placed his hand on the man¡¯s neck.


    ¡°Good, he¡¯s not dead just yet¡­ hopefully I could still get a few answers from him.¡± He sighed in relief, despite the man already bleeding out from his shoulder.


    Felix put on his mask and slapped the man¡¯s face. ¡°Wake up.¡±


    ¡°G-guh¡­¡± The man mumbled out.


    The agent knelt down to his level, his featureless white mask staring into him. ¡°Who did this to you? What happened?¡±


    The man¡¯s face contorted with deranged anger and shouted, ¡°M-MORITZ!¡±


    He grabbed Felix by the throat, but the agent stared at him with cold blue eyes and placed his black gun, Misery, against the man¡¯s forehead. A pink and red mist then splattered on the wall.


    Felix holstered his gun, noticing the slight tremble in his hand. He clenched it tightly into a fist, forcing the shaking to stop as he stood up.


    He glanced back to the three other corpses in the room. He moved to the door and flipped the light switch so that he could investigate.


    Clink.


    A sharp metallic sound echoed.


    His eyes widened as the wall sizzled.


    In half a second, the wires inside lit up, and he instinctively leap out the door ¡ª Before boom.


    ~

 Phantom and Jester part 2

    Felix holstered his gun, noticing the slight tremble in his hand. He clenched it tightly into a fist, forcing the shaking to stop as he stood up.


    He glanced back to the three other corpses in the room. He moved to the door and flipped the light switch so that he could investigate.


    Clink.


    A sharp metallic sound echoed.


    His eyes widened as the wall sizzled.


    In half a second, the wires inside lit up, and he instinctively leap out the door ¡ª A blinding flash and a deafening roar erupted behind him.


    As he tumbled over the ground, a searing wave of heat washed over his back. His mask clattered to the floor, while the hairs in his neck standing up as the loud boom reverberated across the hall.


    He sat up, watching the simmering flames inside the burning room. He wiped his face with a sigh, ¡°Of course it was rigged¡­¡±


    Still on the ground, he looked up and saw a figure standing on the other side of the hall.


    A civilian? No, who is he?


    His eyebrows curled curiously. He picked up his mask and slowly got back up.


    Drawing his white weapon, before cautiously walking check, where he found a young man, and noticed a glint from behind the standing figure. His mask reflected on the small camera of a drone hovering in the hall.


    With a loud whir, it began to fire at him.


    ¡°Damn it!¡± Felix swung his white gun like a baseball bat, fending off against the hail of projectiles. The impact sending him skidding backwards. His feet scraped further back on the floor, until his back was pinned against the bright peach-colored walls.


    Many of the bullets slipped by him and struck him straight in the chest and arms and legs. His coat prevented his death, but most of the impact bruised and beat him from within.


    The drone paused to reload, giving the agent a moment to collapse to his knees.


    His blood dripped from under his white metal mask. His white metal mask ¡ª a metal harder than titanium ¡ª had shown scratches.


    ¡°Whoa, you agents are something else.¡± The figure whistled and took a step closer, ¡°How are you still alive?¡±


    Disoriented, the agent lifted his head up to look at the figure. Through blurred vision, Felix saw a young man with bright orange hair and a black star tattooed underneath his left eye. His face was vaguely reminiscent to that of a performer, while he wore a brown, fur-lined jacket.


    ¡°Are you¡­ who are you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°Answer my question first.¡± The orange-haired jester interrupted, seeking to exchange information.


    The agent chuckled through the pain, ¡°Bullet-proof coat.¡±


    ¡°Oh, oh really? So, then, if I do this, then it won¡¯t kill you?¡± He clicked on a button, and the floating machine once again struck Felix with a volley of lead.


    A sadistic grin formed on his face, torturing the agent for his amusement.


    ¡°GRAAAGH!!¡± Felix shouted as his body was pummeled with bullets.


    Through the loud rattle of the machine gun drone, the jester mused, ¡°You know, it¡¯s strange how not a single one of my drone¡¯s bullets hit you where your coat is very clearly open¡­¡± Pointing towards the clearly open section of Felix¡¯s coat.


    He then pressed on a button that made the drone stop its attack, ¡°Since you answered my question, it¡¯s only fair that I answer yours. I am the new Joker, Moritz Wulfe.¡± His small braid dangled down as he introduced himself with a performative bow.


    ¡°Moritz¡­?¡± Felix echoed weakly, ¡°Were you¡­ the one who did that to those people¡­?¡±


    ¡°Did the holes in their bodies not make it obvious enough, or do I need to turn them into Swiss cheese?¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°They got too close, so I thought I¡¯d have some fun with them. Run a few tests. Now tell me who you are.¡± The young jester, Moritz, said as he pulled off Felix¡¯s mask and threw it to the side.


    Felix took a thin inhale to answer, and glared at Moritz, ¡°Blue Phantom.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s pretty edgy. Is it because your eye glows? How did you even do that? Is it illusion tech?¡± He shot out several questions with a mocking grin.


    ¡°It¡¯s because¡­ you¡¯re gonna be black and blue by the time I¡¯m done with you.¡± The agent forced out a strained laughter, a facade of composure, as he slowly pushed himself back up against the wall.


    ¡°Hah, that¡¯s funny. But I¡¯m a little busy with a business transaction, so let¡¯s make this quick. You said it was because of your bullet-proof coat that you¡¯re alive, so what happens when I do this?¡± He mused as he pulled up the black, bullet-proof coat and slipped a pistol close to his chest.


    Felix winced. His heart pounded harshly, the muzzle just a few inches away from his heart. He closed his eyes, and a voice echoed from his thought, ¡®what it means¡­ to be¡­ an esper.¡¯


    A vision quickly flooded his mind ¡ª A memory of a burning, golden star forming right in front of him.


    The air started to crackle, and a faint blue haze outlined his body.


    A vicious scowl formed on his face as he glared at the jester, yet both of his eyes shined with a radiant blue this time.


    ¡°Do you feel that, Felix?¡± The voice of Luna echoed in his mind during the middle of this battle.


    Felix¡¯s body began to grow hot, and the veins around his arms and neck became visible as his body began to glow from inside. The outline crackled, and slowly transforming into transparent, crystal-patterned flames that enveloped him.


    Moritz¡¯s soulless black eyes widened, he took a step back at the sight of the burning blue man in front of him, but his eyebrows furrowed and he steeled his resolve.


    The jester pulled the trigger, but the bullet it shot out suddenly stopped in the space between his gun and Felix¡¯s chest, suspended by the blue light.


    A wide space opened up between the two, as Moritz leapt back for his own safety, watching the agent slowly getting up.


    Felix tightened his grip on his white gun, Agony.


    His mind sunk to its depths, to where he envisioned his sister holding a crimson spear. ¡°Your anger and regret, can you feel it swirling inside you? The storm raging inside your heart¡­ Can you call upon it?¡± Luna asked.


    The azure flames exploded and amplified several fold.


    Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    ¡°Holy shit!¡± Moritz exclaimed as a gust of wind push against him.


    ¡°I¡¯m not¡­ sure¡­¡± The young boy with mismatched eyes answered to his sister¡¯s odd question.


    ¡°I thought you had a goal in mind? There¡¯s someone you wanted to see, right?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Oh¡­ right.¡± He responded meekly.


    ¡°If you still have that regret, that anger in yourself, then yer gonna have to make use of it. Let yer anger manifest, materialize it into the real world...¡±


    Felix raised his weapon. His grip was so tight that the weapon in his hand clattered. The glowing blue shroud around his body started to get sucked into the back of the white gun.


    ¡°I know but¡­ I can¡¯t.¡± The young Felix remarked.


    ¡°You can¡¯t?¡± The silver-haired woman, Luna, sighed, ¡°Look¡­ if you ever meet again, will you be able to protect them? Will you able to take their hand if they reach out to you?¡±


    Moritz stood there astounded as he watched the flames spiraling into a single, focused point, ¡°Oh shit¡ª!¡±


    As he pulled the trigger, an azure tornado through the air ¡ª Spiraling blue flames whipped and ravaged the halls with burning, tendril-like excess, with the ear-piercing blare of a power drill. And as soon as it met contact with it¡¯s target, Moritz was sent crashing him against wall with tremendous force, and blood and saliva burst out of his mouth.


    With heaving breaths, Felix¡¯s hand began to quiver.


    After one long inhale, he was no longer able to carry the pale white gun, and it dropped on the torn surface of the floor. He followed not long after, dropping down to one knee as he tried to level his breathing.


    He looked around as the glistening haze dissipated with a crackling sound. The floor, walls, ceiling, appeared to have been shredded in a repeating helix-like pattern, like it had been drilled through.


    The dark-haired agent looked at his quivering fingers, and felt each rushing heartbeat in his veins.  He then looked at his white gun with a dumbfounded expression, amazed at the devastation it had caused.


    ¡°...the professor also wanted me to tell you that Agony is special. It¡¯s an improved version of Anastasia¡¯s gun, and that it¡¯s specifically designed to convert and handle as much power you put into it and turn it into ammunition, even while you¡¯re still learning how to control it.¡±


    Were the words that the Chief said to him as he received his new weapons.


    Felix excitedly muttered to himself, ¡°It worked¡­¡±


    He reached for his white gun.


    A satisfying outcome that was cut short by the blood that suddenly started pouring out of his nose, like a faucet in full swing, the sharp sting that made him cover up his own face with two hands.


    ¡°¡­Son of a bitch¡­¡± A pained voice spoke.


    Felix lifted his gaze, the light in his other eye had faded, and were once again black and blue. He was shocked to see the young man still conscious, and even moreso to see him standing, if clinging to the walls.


    Moritz gradually lifted himself up and pushed aside the broken drone that protected him from the blast.


    ¡°Fucking¡­ fuck. Nobody told me that you¡¯ve¡­ got superpowers.¡± Moritz¡¯s voice was strained while he worked his jaw.


    Still struggling to breathe, Felix picked himself back up and wiped off the blood on his mouth. Small streams of electricity flowed around his wounds, as if they were threads stitching him back together.


    Barely able to stand, Moritz picked up the large drone and tore off the broken pieces, ¡°And here I thought the only one I had to worry about was someone called Black Hound.¡±


    The exhausted agent lifted his gun to try and prevent the orange-haired jester from acting. But his hand could barely stay upright.


    The jester aimed what had remained of the machine, the gun barrel, at Felix, and manually began to fire it.


    With barely any energy left, Felix motioned his hand in a wave, creating a transparent, flickering blue curtain. A rapid, successive barrage of bullets.


    The hard-light structure flickered and shattered, but it was enough to soften the impact.


    With no bullets remaining, the jester lowered his weapon and weakly grumbled, ¡°Fucking monster¡­¡±


    Both men were beaten and exhausted and were struggling to even keep upright. An explosion from below shook the hallway and grabbed both of their attention.


    ¡°Huh?!¡± Moritz mumbled as he glanced to the side, where the explosion had come from.


    But he stepped to the side as he saw a blue glimmer headed straight towards his head. He narrowly dodged Felix¡¯s coming fist, and pulled out a combat knife from behind.


    He aimed for the agent¡¯s throat, to which Felix slipped past the swift slash and skid across the floor.


    After escaping the lethal attack, the light around his body flickered away. The last embers of his energy extinguished.


    The jester quickly fell back, ¡°Whoa, I don¡¯t want to fight¡­¡±


    ¡°You tried to kill me.¡± The agent huffed.


    ¡°Yeah, but that doesn¡¯t mean I was fighting you. I was just trying to kill you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡ª!¡± Felix suddenly felt his skin opening, and immediately realized that there was a shallow cut on his throat. He covered the newly formed wound on his throat and asked, ¡°How¡­ did¡­?¡±


    ¡°You might want to check what that noise was. But, before I skedaddle, can I ask you something?¡±


    With agonized eyes, Felix looked at him and answered, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I heard the twelve organizations had a leaderboard, and that the top ten was supposed to be a cut above the rest... Are you one of them?¡± He asked his question all the same.


    ¡°You¡¯re not leaving here.¡± Felix pulled out his black gun, but it felt heavy and shaky.


    ¡°So you didn¡¯t make the cut?¡± Moritz twirled his knife, ¡°That¡¯s disappointing.¡±


    The jester waved him goodbye.


    As he walked on ahead, Felix pulled the trigger, with a loud bang, the bullet penetrated the wall, leaving a crater on it. Yet the young man continued to walk.


    ¡°Huh?¡± He blurted out.


    The agent fired two more times, yet as if completely unfazed, Moritz looked back at him with a large smirk.  It was like the jester was skipping the space between Felix¡¯s vision, the man vanished from the bullet¡¯s trajectory.


    He then threw his combat knife at Felix¡¯s head.


    It spun forward and appeared easy enough to evade. But as Felix shifted his body to avoid it, something pierced the black coat of his shoulder.


    ¡°Urgk!¡± He yelped out as he looked at the combat knife buried into him, ¡°What is this¡­ what¡¯s going on?¡±


    His face contorted with confused, but before he could properly react to it, he noticed that Moritz aimed his pistol at him.


    Felix waved again, forming five thread-like lines of light from his fingertips.


    But Moritz lowered his weapon, ¡°Killing you is more trouble than it¡¯s worth, specifically in the price of bullets.¡± He sighed and glanced at his pistol.


    The damaged drone whirred in overdrive, it began to fill the area with an acrid smelling smoke.


    ¡°Welp, see ya!¡± The jester smiled.


    ¡°Come¡­ back¡­ here!¡± The wound on Felix¡¯s throat made it difficult for him to even shout.


    ¡°You¡¯re not too sharp, are you? I just spared your life, don¡¯t go wasting my charity on you.¡± Standing on the edge of the corridor, he looked back with a vicious glare.


    As the drone¡¯s spinning slowed to a halt, Moritz became different.  His body flickered with red, green and blue outlines, distorting like a computer glitch.


    His cocky demeanor vanished, replaced with a dark anger and desperation ¡ª bloodlust pouring out of him.


    The brown jacket wrapped around him was now torn apart and barely holding together, and his face and body were covered in blood and bruises.


    The jester distorted even further, until it looked was three of them. Separated by green, blue and red, all staring back at him.


    With a crackling snap, the jester shattered into pixelated pieces.


    Felix blinked, and Moritz was gone.


    As soon as he vanished from the corner, Felix¡¯s shoulders relaxed and he dropped to his knees. Blood sputtered from his nose and mouth. There was an unbearable hot sting from his throat and nostrils.


    Okay, so a bullet got to me¡­ maybe a couple of bullets got to me¡­


    I think I have a broken rib, maybe two. And all of my limbs are burning. Nothing to worry about. Just some random brat that wasn¡¯t in the intelligence report humiliated me.


    This is fine. No, this is absolutely fantastic.


    The agent grimaced. He let out strained, violent coughs through his scorched throat. He collapsed on the ground, shaking  and holding himself tight.


    Though his coat protected him from the onslaught of lead, his body was still burned with a throbbing pain, caused by each individual impact.


    While the price of his own powers took it¡¯s toll, worsening his already labored breathing by clogging his nose with his own blood.


    He groaned and grumbled for several seconds, before grabbing the knife in his shoulder. With a tight grip, he let out a hoarse scream as he pulled it out of his bleeding flesh.


    His lungs emptied by his own pained shriek and refused to take in any air, and he was rolling in a puddle of his own blood.


    Felix looked at his reflection in the stained knife, and quickly remembered the jester¡¯s last words to him:


    ¡°Don¡¯t go wasting my charity on you.¡±


    That word invited an unwelcome memory invaded his thoughts. The vision of a hand drenched in blood, reaching upward while trapped in rubble.


    He grinned and looked at his own glowing blue eye, ¡°May you be the fruit of all my endeavors¡­ my prosperity, my charity, and my redemption...¡± He scoffed and agent angrily threw the knife on the floor.


    Felix dragged himself toward the wall. As he leaned against it, he pulled out a small, red-marked bottle from his pocket and popped out one of its pills. A pain reliever, which he achingly swallowed through his burning throat.


    As he caught his breath, dozens of little zigzags began to form around him, slowly patching his wounds up. An explosion suddenly shook the building.


    ¡°Marie!¡± His worry forced him to reflexively get up, but he was far from fully healing, and he fell face first to the floor.


    A string of explosions followed, and the memory of Maria¡¯s bleeding face on top of him flashed in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m pretty sure¡­ you¡¯re the one supposed to be protecting me¡­ Felix¡­¡± Her words echoed.


    He picked up his mask. Staying upright had become a harsh endeavor, as a little bit of his blood sputtered out with every step he took. But as he clung to the walls and dragged himself forward, the only thought that drove him forward was to search for his partner.  ¡°Marie¡­ please be okay.¡±


    ~

 A Great, Many Things part 1

    Chapter 16


    A great, many things


    Felix was on the brink of collapse while dragging himself in search of Maria. He supported himself on the walls to keep upright, while a current of blue electricity streamed from his wounds, slowly patching himself back together.


    He took a deep inhale; his breathing was slowly starting to steady.


    Suddenly, a chain of explosives was set off from the lower floors. The entire hallway he stood on rumbled, and he nearly staggered, and would have fell on the floor had he not tightly clung on the walls.


    As soon as they halted, he pushed onward to the source of the sound as he slowly got faster.


    Desperate screams echoed from inside the parking lot, followed with the sound of consistent fire. Shells one by one fell to the ground after consistent fire, yet a knife still danced and twirled, its black exterior illuminated by the ghostly green glow of the lights.


    ¡°Wait, stop! I¡¯m on your side!¡± A voice screamed out.


    A figure dressed in black and riddled with knives walked back and pleaded with a frightened expression.


    ¡°Are you done with your attack?¡± A silhouette walked closer.


    ¡°Please! Stop!¡±


    ¡°No more explosives or bullets?¡±


    ¡°This was part of the mission! Stop!¡± The shrieking voice gargled on blood.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter¡­ at this point you¡¯re really just collateral.¡±


    ¡°Disengage! DISENGAGE! THE TREATY¡ª¡± Desperate cries echoed in the halls of the empty lot.


    Blood streamed down from Maria¡¯s face, seen through the blurry vision of a broken man on death¡¯s door.


    As she put her hands on his body, his arms and legs twisted in ways that the body shouldn¡¯t; Like cloth that was wrung tighter and tighter until it bled.


    He thrashed about in agony, left to right, right to left, while clinging tightly onto his fleeting consciousness. Yet his loud screams turned smaller until they were only soft squeals.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    With uneven breathing, Felix arrived at Maria¡¯s location, ¡°M-Marie, are you alright?¡± He asked, but all he could see was a blurry figure ahead. It was a vague silhouette, but he could tell that it was the body of his partner that was in front of him.


    ¡°Of course, I am.¡± Maria responded with ragged breaths, which confirmed to him who it was.


    He dragged himself closer, and the damage became more visible. The dozens of explosions had left several dark marks and rubble in the room. His hazy vision began to clear up, and the effects of grenades and explosives could be seen all around the space.


    Felix found himself standing in an indoor parking lot and spoke, ¡°I¡­ heard a lot of explosions from here, so I thought that you might have been in trouble...¡±


    ¡°Aw, look, he¡¯s worried about me.¡± She looked to him with a cheery smile, her face was covered in blood.


    ¡°Your face is¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t worry. From the looks of things, you¡¯re the one in bad shape.¡± She answered as she wiped it off.


    ¡°I see, so then¡ª¡± As he got closer to her, his tongue halted as he took notice of the figure on the ground. Felix¡¯s contrasting eyes focused on the strange figure lying down on the ground. ¡°Wh-what¡ª is that... agent Petrichor? What happened?¡±


    ¡°He tripped.¡±


    ¡°I-into your knife?¡±


    ¡°¡­ Yeees.¡± She answered in a long, drawn-out voice.


    As he took a step closer, the sickening sight became clear. His vision focused on the disfigured, mangled limbs of the ex-Elite Agent. It took a moment for it to sink in.


    Whether it was from the pain of almost being riddled with bullets, or from the sight before me, one of these caused my hands quiver.


    I needed to compose myself in front of her. But as she turned to face me, I felt my skin go cold.


    Killing people should be natural to us, but this is¡­


    The blood dripping from Marie¡¯s cheek wasn¡¯t from a struggle ¡ª It was from a one-sided massacre.


    Agent Petrichor¡¯s body was mutilated beyond recognition, and yet she had an unfettered smile the entire time.


    Felix swallowed the bile that crept up his throat while he tried to force out words through his throat, ¡°What¡­ what is wrong with you?¡±


    The flickering green light of the underground buzzed eerily as she answered in a soft voice. ¡°A great, many things.¡±


    The wideness of the indoor parking lot made her quiet, cheery voice echo. A cold-sweat dripped down Felix¡¯s face.


    Killing should be normal for people like us, people of the underworld, both agents and criminals alike. But¡­ this...


    Felix quickly moved his gaze away, remembering how she sliced a man in half during their first mission. But that was a quick and painless kill. This was¡­


    Maria¡¯s own eyes widen for a moment as she realizes.


    ¡°S-sorry if this looks awful! I guess that I just turned out better with knives than he was with guns, and well, I might¡¯ve gotten carried away~¡± She remarked with a scatterbrained smile, with her eyes closed and her tongue stuck out.


    He could not find the words to respond with. Though she tried to deflate the tension with her words, Felix was unable to peel off his gaze from the mangled corpse in front of him.


    ¡°Lookie what I got.¡± She lifted up a black, drive-like device. It was the second piece of the Matrix Key. ¡°He really did have a key fragment on him.¡±


    ¡°R-right¡­¡± He replied, trying to cough up words.


    ¡°Anyways, we need to keep on our guard. Apparently, there¡¯s a Jackal¡¯s¡ª¡±


    Three shimmering lines cleaved through the thick air.


    ~

 A Great, Many Things part 2

    Three shimmering lines cleaved through the thick air.


    Maria ducked the attack, but her body was sent flying by a kick that followed after.


    ¡°V.V.!¡± Felix cried out as his partner crashed against one of the concrete pillars, into an explosion of concrete and gray mist.


    ¡°Worry about yourself!¡± A voice boomed as another slash of light cleaved through the darkness.


    Felix evaded the oncoming attack. A savage strike shredded that tore through the tail-end of his black coat.


    With one hand pressed on the ground, the blue-eyed agent took on an animalistic stance. One hand was hanging in the air.


    He glanced up to see a hulking figure looming over him. One with pale blond hair spiked up in the center of his bald scalp, with muscles bulging beneath the leathery red jacket that was clearly stretched too tight. His arms were covered with mechanical gauntlets, each with three long curved blades that protruded from joints on the knuckles.


    ¡°To be defeated by some brat¡­I thought Elite Agents were supposed to be in a league of their own.¡± The hulking man said as he looked over at the person Maria had just killed. ¡°Then again, you both are Elites, too, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Y-you¡¯re¡­¡± Felix stuttered, a bead of sweat rolling down his cheek.


    Could this be the guy Marie was talking about? Is he¡­ Jackal¡¯s Fang?


    The brute flaunted a sharp array of claws, flashing them with pride, ¡°You can call me Beast.¡±


    Felix blinked, startled for a short moment, before letting out a sigh of relief, ¡°Bentley Wallace East¡­ Also known as Beast. A high-ranking member of the mafia. I¡¯m surprised someone as large as you managed to sneak up behind us.¡±


    ¡°I see my reputation precedes me. So, you¡¯re also one of those Elite Agents? Let¡¯s hope you¡¯re better than that corpse over there.¡± The brute sneered, pointing to the now deceased Agent Petrichor.


    His attention shifted towards the man¡¯s gauntlets, decorated with the shredded bits of his coat.


    It takes a lot to rip this coat... What are those claws made of? Military-grade alloy? It looks like his body is covered in military-grade stuff.


    Felix scanned the brute top to down. The claws were Beast¡¯s main weapon, but both his arms and legs were wrapped in a red exoskeleton, and even a pistol hanging on his side.


    Either way, as long as there¡¯s machine gun drone earlier, this is a fight I can win.


    He concluded, letting out a slow exhale.


    ¡°Are you¡­ a fang?¡±


    The criminal grinned, ¡°What if I said yes?¡±


    Bloodlust rippled through the air as the green light buzzed between them.


    With legs like tree trunks and biceps that were large enough to rival Felix¡¯s head, Beast¡¯s muscles were aching to test their strength. Although he acted like a brute, Beast kept his movements small and cautious, wary of what the man with the glowing blue eye was capable of.


    With one arm hanging in the air, Felix slowly reached for his gun, staring intently at his enemy¡¯s next move.


    But the tension shattered as rocks burst towards the two of them. The dark-haired woman emerged from gray smoke, saying, ¡°Felix.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± The two of them glanced over to her.


    ¡°Two legs. Not four.¡± Simple words that she instructed, commanded, and demanded of him.


    Felix let out a relieved smile, getting up on his feet.


    A bead of sweat slid across Beast¡¯s face as he glanced at Maria. With a grin on his face, he taunted, ¡°You¡¯re real cute, so I¡¯d love to spare ¡®ya. But ya killed one of my pack, so I gotta kill ya. Nothing pers¡ª¡±


    ¡°Spare us the gimmick, you mutt.¡± Maria interrupted him, dusting herself as she crawled out of the rubble, ¡°Save us the trouble of having to catch you.¡±


    Beast noticed the green light shift into a bright blue.


    He shifted his attention back to Felix, and found a masked figure outlined in blue light, aiming a white pistol directly at him.


    The blue haze spiraled out of his body and funneled into Agony¡¯s barrel. A slow blue swirl charging up. He hoped to replicate the attack he used before ¡ª the cyclone he used to strike Moritz.


    But as he pulled the trigger, what fired was nothing but a transparent tornado that barely pushed Beast back. The swirling blue shroud quickly evaporated, dissipating into nothingness.


    ¡°The hell was that?¡± Beast grinned nervously.


    It paled in comparison to the attack he used against Moritz.


    His body crackled, and blue electricity knitted his wounds together.


    Beast¡¯s claws began to let out a revving sound, and his claws began to vibrate rapidly as he charged.


    Once again, Felix evaded, sidestepping away from the downward swing. But Beast was faster than he expected, and a heavy boot sent him across the air.


    As he landed, his boots skidded to a halt. His arms trembled, the pain of Beast¡¯s kick radiated across his body. But he clenched his fist. There was no time to let the pain linger.


    His white gun, Agony, was useless. So he drew his black gun, Misery. It was time to see what his hollow rounds were capable of.


    But his previous engagement with the jester left him exhausted and in pain. His muscles ached, and his vision blurred around the edges. The black gun was heavy, pulling his arm downward.


    He was running on fumes.


    Still, he steadied his aim regardless ¡ª


    BANG!


    The powerful recoil made he tumble over on the dusty concrete. He missed the large target by a small margin, leaving a shallow cut across the brute¡¯s face.


    Beast snarled in response. He crouched, ready to lunge at the agent on the ground. But a loud crashing noise echoed throughout the parking lot, making him stop in his tracks. He slowly turned around, and saw a gaping hole left on the pillar behind him.


    ¡°The hell?!¡±


    The brute¡¯s brown eyes focused intently on the circular hole blown out of the concrete pillar. A sense of fear and rage as he thought to himself;


    That girl, even though she broke through that pillar, she¡¯s looking at me like nothing even happened. As for this runt, with the trail of blood he left behind, he shouldn¡¯t even be able to stand, much less fight. Not to mention, that gun is way too strong to be an ordinary pistol. Just what in the hell are these two?


    This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.


    As his gaze shifted back to his enemy, he saw the barrel of the black gun pointing at him.


    The masked agent was already back on his feet, and spoke in a muffled voice, ¡°You keep getting distracted.¡±


    And fired off two more rounds.


    Beast¡¯s vibrating claws sliced through both bullets. Even though Misery was strong enough to blow a clean hole through concrete pillars, Beast¡¯s claws was fully capable of deflecting them.


    Felix fired a few more rounds, each shot forcing him to lose his footing.


    But Beast slowly closed the gap, slicing through each successive round with his vibrating claws.


    The agent instinctively pulled out to Agony, using its default attack in a desperate attempt to stun the large man, or at least slow him down. The criminal was pushed by the concentric waves of energy, feeling a slight tingle that made his arms feel stiff.


    But he stood strong, and brazenly charged at his enemy, ¡°That the best you¡¯ve got?!¡±


    With a wide swing, his mechanical claws slashed through pillar the phantom leaned on. Felix once again slipped underneath. But as Beast lifted his leg to kick, the agent slid under that attack too.


    ¡°Slippery bastard.¡±


    Felix darted away while simultaneously shooting at his enemy, not allowing Beast to get close.


    He then shifted his attention to the exoskeleton on Beast¡¯s legs, aimed Misery at the joints. But Beast was quickly caught on to what he was planning.


    The brute stopped in his tracks and began sprinting towards Maria, who was still sitting under the rubble with a bored stare.


    Felix aimed Misery, but saw Maria looking at him.


    ¡°V.V.!¡±


    A memory flashed in his head. Her blood dripping from her face, down to his.


    He refused to risk hurting his own partner. So he lowered his gun and chased after the brute.


    Beast grinned, and the exoskeleton around his legs began revving up. With a loud whir, he closed the gap, and landed a charged-up kick deep into Felix¡¯s gut.


    The explosive kick sent him crashing through another of the parking area¡¯s pillars, crashing through it, then rolled across the grimy, concrete floor.


    His white mask hollowly clattered a few feet away, while he desperately trying to breathe.


    The concrete column cracked snapped, and crumbled with a dusty echo.


    Beast let out an exhausted exhale as the whirring in his legs slowed. With a satisfied smirk, the brute took his sweet time walking towards the agent. Even as his opponent was writhing in the ground, there was still caution in his approach.


    With shaky arms, Felix could barely push himself back up. He spat out a mix of saliva and blood.


    Beast pulled out the pistol from his hip.


    ¡°Get up!¡± Maria¡¯s sharp demand echoed. ¡°If you really want to be number one, then you have to be able to beat this guy first.¡±


    If I want to be number one¡­


    With those words, he heard Luna¡¯s voice echo from his buried memories, ¡°Felix¡­get up. Every time you fall, you get back up.¡±


    I have to surpass him¡­


    The blue-eyed agent reached his hand forward, only for the brute to tower over him.


    ¡°Any last words?¡± Beast asked.


    He felt the criminal press the cold muzzle against the back of his head. In his mind formed the silhouette of David, looking back at him from the distance with a sharp gaze.


    And if I have to surpass him¡­ then I have to be¡­


    Beast squeezed the trigger ¡ª


    Stronger!


    Felix grabbed his mask with an unnatural speed, placing it between the pistol and the back of his head. The bullets could not penetrate the aestrellium mask.


    The blue-eyed agent rolled on the ground and slipped away, sprinting into the shadows.


    ¡°GRUH!¡± Beast growled and fired at him, only for the bullets to strike an afterimage ¡ª an azure mirage.


    ¡°What the hell¡ª?!¡± Beast tightened his grip on the pistol, aiming frantically.


    ¡°What are you shooting at?¡± A muffled voice taunted him.


    As he turned around, he saw the phantom standing behind him.


    There was a large space once again between them.  The phantom stripped off his black coat, revealing the  bloody blue shirt underneath. His twin pistols holstered on the brown belts around his chest.


    ¡°You know¡­ I¡¯ve been having an awful day today.¡± His body wobbled, and was crackling in blue electricity.


    Beast grinned and aimed at him, ¡°You and I both!¡±


    Felix suddenly appeared right before him, striking with a bone-crunching punch, before kicking away his pistol with a spin-kick, ¡°Don¡¯t talk over me.¡±


    Beast reeled back a few steps, clutching his aching stomach.


    ¡°As I was saying¡­ Because I¡¯m having an awful day, to blow off some steam...¡± The phantom¡¯s voice dripped with a hint of depravity.


    ¡°What was that?¡± The brute blew the blood out of his nose, and wiped the scratch on his cheek.


    ¡°I thought dogs were supposed to have good hearing.¡±


    ¡°Fuck you just say?!¡±


    What the hell is going on? He¡¯s acting like he¡¯s completely unharmed!


    Beast stared at the blue-eyed agent, who stared back with a blank canvas covering his face.


    ¡°Between the golden lion, the two new recruits, that clown from earlier, and you¡­ I think I¡¯m done with today. For your sake, I¡¯ll give you ten seconds to grovel and apologize like the dog you are.¡± His voice reverberated through the mask and echoed through the vast open space.


    ¡°Little bastard!¡±


    The phantom nonchalantly approached the brute. Though the agent¡¯s face was covered by the unfeeling white mask, it was evident from his voice how much he was enjoying taunting the criminal.


    Beast¡¯s eyes twitched, and he threw his fist with great speed. Although his attack swept up some of the dust on the ground, his claws was only able to strike another blue silhouette.


    ¡°Again, what are you attacking?¡± The phantom was standing on top of his fist.


    ¡°The hell¡ª?!¡±


    His mockery had clearly gotten under the criminal¡¯s skin. But before Beast could even shout, the agent stomped his heel against his face, using it to backflip away from him.


    The brute staggered, the iron-soles left a throbbing red imprint on his face. But just like before, his tree-trunk legs refused to give in.


    A few meters separated the two once more.


    Beast¡¯s exoskeleton flared up, letting out a mechanical whir as if to breathe.


    The chase resumed, but this time ¡ª Beast was no longer the predator.


    Sparks flew as Beast¡¯s claws clashed with the phantom¡¯s ornate pistols. Exchanging strikes and slashes, but each time the wild giant got close, the phantom would vanish, replaced by a blue silhouette.


    With every motion, a ghostly mirage was left in his place.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Beast muttered. His enemy was once again gone. No afterimage, no counterattack.


    He then heard the sound of a hand brushing against cloth. He turned around and saw the agent dusting himself off.


    ¡°DON¡¯T FUCK WITH ME!¡± The red rage in his face growing more and more apparent.


    The brute rushed at him, the exoskeleton vibrating loudly as he let out a flurry of strikes. Blinded by rage, he let out an unrelenting assault, repeatedly throwing punch after punch after kick after swipe. He would not let him slip away again.


    Overwhelmed by the rapid blows, the agent aimed his gun at Beast¡¯s face, only for the Beast to slip into his space and bite his arm.


    ¡°GRAGH!¡± The agent shouted.


    In that instant, Beast took a swipe at the phantom¡¯s head, and the white mask flew into the air. Only for it to reveal Felix¡¯s glowing blue eyes.


    The blue-eyed man lunged forward with an enraged grin.


    ¡°AGKH!¡±


    Everything suddenly turned pitch black.


    Buzzing lights filled the silence, the eerie green flickered across the parking lot.


    Beast opened his eyes, surprised to find himself staring at the ceiling, ¡°Wh-wha¡ª the hell¡ª? Why am I?¡±


    He reached for the throbbing in his forehead, and winced as soon as he touched it, feeling something warm from it. When he had brought his hand to his line of sight, he saw that it was dripping in red. His spiked blond hair was drenched in his own blood.


    Beast saw Felix stroking the arm he just bit into.


    This kid¡­ he grabbed me by the head¡­ and he¡­


    He recollected the blue-eyes closing in, and the feeling of a hand squeezing his face, before promptly getting smashed against the floor.


    Panic started to settle in as his breathing grew heavy and uneven. He clutched the ground and picked up pieces of dirt and debris, before getting back up and wiping off the blood sliding across his brown eyes.


    Fighting head-on isn¡¯t gonna work.


    The brute took his stance. The phantom noticed, put his mask back on, and answered in kind.


    As they met head on, the phantom effortlessly avoided Beast¡¯s upcoming blow with a swift side step, and replied with his own right hook. But before it could land, Beast grinned and unclenched his fist, flinging dust and grime from his hand and into his opponent¡¯s eyes.


    Blinded by the crafty attack, Beast followed up with a blow to his gut. His body was shot into the air, but his feet landed first, skidding against the grime.


    ¡°Did I get him?¡± He squinted.


    The brute¡¯s attention was then drawn to the sound clinking metal falling on the ground. He saw metallic shards clatter to the ground.


    It quickly dawned on him what he was looking at.


    ¡°Looks my hands were stronger than your claws.¡± Felix lifted up his arm, which were covered in cuts and metal shards. In his palms, he held the broken blades of Beast¡¯s claws.


    ¡°What?¡±


    After the question escaped his lips, he heard a snap. The gauntlet began to break apart.


    As its crimson pieces clattered to the ground, the agent swung the blades back at him. The criminal let out a guttural screamed as the blades shot through his now-defenseless forearm.


    Beast finally collapsed to his knees.


    The phantom whipped his arm, casting out the remaining metal shards embedded inside it. His footsteps began to echo throughout the parking lot, looking down on the self-proclaimed beast.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Aren¡¯t you gonna use the claws you¡¯re so proud of?¡± The phantom laughed, calmly approaching.


    ¡°WHAT IN THE HELL ARE YOU?!¡±


    Beast¡¯s heavy breathing turned into uneven gasps as he looked up at the man-made monster standing in front of him.


    The Blue Phantom held his black gun an inch before Beast¡¯s forehead, mirroring what Beast had done to him earlier. But as Beast looked up, his expression reminded Felix of Harbinger¡¯s frightened face.


    There was a second of hesitation, but Maria¡¯s words echoed in his ear, ¡°You were only prolonging his suffering.¡±


    He let out a shaky exhale, and answered, ¡°Me? I¡¯m an esper. Do you know what that means?¡±


    Through Beast¡¯s blurry vision, the masked agent with glowing blue eyes appeared like the reaper ready to swing.


    I see now¡­ This damned brat¡­ is Death itself.


    The last thing he witnessed was the white gun in front of him.


    After pulling the trigger, Beast fell to the ground.


    ~

 A Great, Many Things part 3

    After pulling the trigger, Beast fell to the ground.


    A second after, Felix let out a long exhale and holstered his gun. He then headed over to Maria before collapsing halfway through, face-first into the concrete. The accumulated pain finally took its toll. The streams of blue electricity resumed, knitting together all over the cuts and bruises on his body.


    Maria threw away the pieces of debris that covered her body and picked up his black coat on the ground.


    She squatted down with her face perched between her hands, moving his mask to the side to let him breathe.


    He let out a deep, exasperated gasp.


    ¡°I¡¯ve never seen you act like that before. Where did that come from?¡±  She asked.


    ¡°Well¡­ I was picturing the image of strength that I needed to beat him, and um¡­ both you¡­ and well, someone else¡­ came into mind at the last moment.¡± He answered as he sat up.


    ¡°Ah¡­ I¡¯m flattered.¡± She wrapped the black coat over his shoulders. ¡°So now that the adrenaline rush faded, how does it feel beating your first boss?¡± She said tauntingly as she pressed her index finger on his face.


    ¡°Painful¡­¡± With a sharp groan, he put his coat back on, ¡°Hey, why are you unharmed?¡±


    ¡°... Yes.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not an ans¡ª¡± Felix¡¯s eyes widened at the sound of footsteps.


    Her eyes sharpened as she yelled, ¡°Who¡¯s there?!¡±


    He lifted up Misery, barely able to keep it steady, as he aimed at the direction that Maria was staring.


    ¡°If he¡¯s still alive, then I hope you don¡¯t mind us taking him back with us.¡± An unknown voice echoed through the parking lot, as a man in a suit approached them, with eyes faced opposite directions.  ¡°We still need him to hold up his end of the bargain, you see.¡±


    In the unknown man¡¯s hands was a long cylindrical object made of metal, one covered in a pattern of circuits.


    Maria helped Felix get back on his feet.


    ¡°Over my¡­ dead body¡­¡± The agent huffed out. There was no chance that he would let his prize ¡ª one of Jackal¡¯s Fangs ¡ª slip out of his fingers.


    But as he pulled the trigger on his black gun, his expression suddenly turned hollow. With no ammunition left, all that came out was a click.


    ¡°That¡¯s fine, I could spare a minute or two.¡± The cross-eyed man responded as a high-pitched ring emanated from the weapon in his arms.


    The weapon didn¡¯t escape Felix¡¯s notice. It was black cylinder with patterns of circuitry on it. He recognized this ¡ª it was a weapon he had dealt with before.


    A bright, white stream shot out of the machine he was holding, lighting up dim-green parking lot with a blinding radiance. A sharp scream followed.


    Maria leapt out of it¡¯s way, but the ray of light was too fast for her. Her shoulder was scorched, her flesh glowing with a molten red as she collapsed to her knees, unable to soothe her red-hot wound.


    But the sudden burst was volatile and caused the cross-eyed man to misfire, narrowly missing the blue-eyed agent. The cross-eyed man struggled to control the weapon¡¯s trajectory, the recoil from the energy blast made it impossible to aim it.


    He jerked it towards the woman¡¯s direction, but before the beam could slice through the rest of her body, Felix appeared in front of her in a blue flash.


    Enraged, he stretched out his right hand, emitting a spiraling ether, ¡°HOW DARE YOU HURT HER!¡± His voice muffled in a ghostly wail.


    The glowing blue shroud was capable of stopping a hail of bullets. But the white beam burned through his defenses, instantly whittling it down into a paper thin curtain. Felix skidded across the grime, until his back was up against one of the pillars.


    And yet before it could pierce through him, it stopped and scattered into white particles.


    ¡°Felix!¡± Maria yelled in a strained manner and rushed to his side.


    ¡°Blasted thing wasn¡¯t even on full-power¡­¡± The cross-eyed man grumbled as the machine in his hands began to rapidly rattle, recharging.


    ¡°You¡¯re gonna break it, mister Oscar.¡± Another figure emerged from the darkness, limping forward. It was a young man with bright orange hair and a tattoo of a star beneath his eye.


    If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    Through Felix¡¯s bloodied face, he whimpered out, ¡°Mo¡­ ritz¡­¡±


    It was the jester man from before, covered in bruises.


    ¡°Who is he?¡± His partner asked, holding him.


    The blue-eyed agent could barely utter another word, ¡°H-He¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°We still need that thing, Mister Oscar. Now c¡¯mon, we¡¯re retreating.¡± The jester placed his hand on the cross-eyed man¡¯s shoulder. The ache in his voice was evident. He was still in severe pain.


    ¡°What are you saying?! We can take them out right here, right¡ª!¡±


    Before the cross-eyed man could argue any further, a knife had been thrown straight at the weapon, embedding itself into the cannon¡¯s mouth.


    With a metal thud, Oscar dropped the weapon to the ground, bolts of static began to spark around.


    Moritz shielded his face as he flinched, scolding the cross-eyed man, ¡°Dumbass! If that guy had the power to stop a blast from that plasma cannon, then it¡¯s likely that woman does, too!¡±


    The jester¡¯s cold gaze then moved on to Maria, who, despite having a smoldering shoulder, stared with such hostility, it was as if she wasn¡¯t even hurt.


    ¡°Look at her. If you hadn¡¯t noticed, we only caught her offguard.¡±


    With a harsh wheeze, Felix mumbled out, ¡°So you¡¯re¡­ one of the mafia?¡±


    ¡°Nope, I¡¯m just here to make sure the mafia, particularly Mister Beast and Mister Oscar here, doesn¡¯t double-cross us.¡± Moritz invaded Oscar¡¯s privacy and wrapped his arm around the man¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Get your hands off me, clown!¡± Oscar shouted.


    Felix gritted his teeth, asking, ¡°Us? Moritz¡­ who are you?¡±


    ¡°Who me? I¡¯m just a regular ol¡¯ college dropout, and¡­ also one of Jackal¡¯s Fangs.¡± The jester slyly admitted.


    ¡°So, he¡¯s¡ª?¡± Maria muttered as Felix shot back up.


    ¡°The last¡­ of the Fangs!¡± The agent viciously growled.


    ¡°Wrooong! I¡¯m not the last of the Fangs¡­ I¡¯m a new member!¡± Moritz put both of his index fingers to the ends of his lips to form a smile.


    With each aching step, Felix pushed himself forward, his right eye shifting back and forth between glowing blue and unlit black.


    He shakily lifted up his right arm to point his white gun. He noticed that his weapon was exactly where it should be, but not held with the hand that was supposed to carry it ¡ª Only a bleeding stump covered in burnt skin and flesh, and the fiery haze keeping the gun up in the air.


    ¡°Looks like you should get that fixed up.¡± With a wide grin, the orange-haired man taunted.


    Felix¡¯s confused expression quickly turned into a furious rage, and growled at the two of them.


    Yet before he could take another step forward, his body was shot back into the ground.


    ¡°Felix? Felix, Felix!¡± The dark-haired woman cried out as she cradled him in her arms.


    There was a sharp ring in his ears. His glowing blue eyes fixated on the gun in the young man¡¯s hand.


    Moritz muttered out and blew the smoke out of his pistol. ¡°So, it looks like your superpower has a limit. That could be useful information.¡±


    But the jester¡¯s gleeful demeanor vanished when the enemy in front of him started to light up, ¡°Huh?¡±


    Beside him, Oscar asked in disbelief, ¡°What the fuck is going on?¡±


    Hazy blue shrouds manifested around Felix¡¯s body, reaching the ceiling. His vision blurred as red tears muddled his vision. He could barely recognize Maria through the bloody filter as she desperately cried out his name, while the intense ringing in his ears blocked out her voice.


    The criminals watched as the azure shrouds forming around Felix¡¯s body coalesced into into a bright, burning blue dome. One that started beating.


    ¡°Wh-what?! A star? This must be apocalyptic warning!¡± Oscar yelled.


    The jester stared for a moment as he wiped his own blood, ¡°So that¡¯s what Julius was warning us about¡­¡±


    Oscar frantically aimed at Felix¡¯s head, but as he unloaded his pistol, all of the bullets were caught in the sphere and was left spiraling along its blue orbit.


    The transparent, azure force suddenly slammed the two criminals against the pillars, and dropped to the ground on all fours.


    Fluctuating blue lights filled the air with a crushing intensity.


    Another pulse followed, and for a split second, it was as if gravity¡¯s direction had been changed. They felt their entire bodies being pulled back into the darkness. No, that was merely confusion due to how fast it happened.


    What they felt was every part of their body was being pushed away, like a tidal wave crashing against them, they were subject to its fury.


    More transparent blue waves began to rhythmically pulsate from the star, akin to a heart beating.


    Felix¡¯s body began to convulse, and appeared to glow from within. His flesh shined a bright red, while particles of light flowing across his veins.


    ¡°It¡¯s now or never!¡± Moritz forced himself forward and reached the cannon crackling on the ground, but before he could grab it, a bullet shattered the concrete next to him.


    As the shell let out a metallic clatter, the jester looked forward and saw that Maria was using her ornate gun, Proditor. A pitch-black gun identical to Felix¡¯s.


    ¡°Get away from us.¡± She hissed.


    The dark woman¡¯s face was barely visible because the beating blue sphere, but her weaponized malice ¡ªher bloodlust, was enough to make them the two men freeze.


    Overwhelmed, Moritz forced his mouth to speak, ¡°That¡¯s enough, let¡¯s go¡­¡±


    Refusing to be ruled by fear, the cross-eyed man grit his teeth and reached for the cylindrical weapon.


    Maria fired again ¡ª this time, it wasn¡¯t a warning shot.


    ¡°ARGH!!¡± Oscar¡¯s arm exploded into a puddle of blood and viscera. That single round she fired not only destroyed the cross-eyed man¡¯s arm, but also shattered half of the pillar behind him.


    ¡°Unless you want to die here, we¡¯re leaving. Now.¡± The jester growled.


    He pulled out a deck of cards under his fur-lined coat and scattered them in the air. The cards multiplied until it covered up the both criminals, before breaking into digital fractals and fading away. Soon after, Moritz and Oscar were both gone. All that was left behind was a single red joker card.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. You¡¯re strong, I know you¡¯ll get through this. I¡¯m here, Felix.¡± Maria grabbed her partner¡¯s glowing red hand, which felt like holding a bag of boiling water.


    Her calm words were barely audible to him. The only sound he could hear was his heartbeat and the sharp ringing that grew louder with each passing moment.


    Sparks scattered out of his own face. His vision grew foggier as a flurry of blue particles spiraled in his right iris, painting everything with a coat of glitter.


    In one last breath, he opened his eyes, and found himself floating in the sea. Above him, a horizon of endless stars.


    ~

 The Implementation part 1: Dragged Through the Dirt

    Chapter 16.5


    The Implementation part 1: Dragged Through the Dirt


    A sharp ringing echoed through my mind, drowning out everything else as I stared at his bleeding corpse. The boy who ran, who desperately wanted to live, became lifeless in a blink of an eye. His blood splattered against the white walls before my mind could even process what it was that I was seeing.


    My legs buckled. The sharp scent of gunpowder sapped all the strength in my legs, and I fell to the ground, my skin burning against the hot gray concrete.


    The boy¡¯s death wasn¡¯t a punishment, it was both a warning and an example to the rest of us who would try to do the same ¡ª It was a wake-up call to their cold indifference.


    As I collapsed next to the black cars, they grabbed me by the arm and pulled me to the white warehouse. The feeling of my face dragged against the concrete forced me to remember the day they took me in.


    Maybe I was ten, but I couldn¡¯t remember. Not at the very moment.


    It was hazy, but I remember scavenging for scraps on the pavement, searching for anything to fill my stomach. The day they dragged me through the streets, my face scraping against the pavement before they shoved me into a black car.


    Next thing I knew, I was in a dusty old room, watching an old woman writing on the table. Her face was a shadow, obscured by the light from the window behind her, and behind me was a man in a black-suit. After the faint sound of scribbling stopped, and the two figures shook hands as my life was signed away. Both of their faces were a blur, it was like ink had been smudged across my memories.


    I would say I traded one suffering for another, but that implies that I ever had a choice in the matter.


    After that, I was introduced to my new ¡®home¡¯, along with several others like myself ¡ª a place with food and a roof over our shoulders. And a place where our lives were marked by restless training and education. We weren¡¯t groomed for military service, we weren¡¯t dogs of the military; we were molded into the agencies¡¯ operatives ¡ª walking weapons designed to serve in silence and subterfuge.


    We would return to receive basic ¡ª geography, politics, and survival.


    We trained in the fields under scorching sun and we trained until it set ¡ª our hands memorized the shape of the wooden knives and staves that we held all day. We could feel them, even as we clenched our empty palms. Our footwork left permanent patterns on the ground.


    Exhaustion was our constant companion.


    Each day stripped away pieces of who I had been, replaced by the cold efficiency of their ruthlessness.


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Those who faltered or broke were reassigned, some to technical roles, others as personal servants. But those who persevered continued as planned.


    After two grueling years, they told us it was time to reap the fruits of our labor.


    For breakfast, we were granted a king¡¯s feast. The best meal food we¡¯ve ever had. At noon, we had no training or lectures. Instead, we stood atop the wooden podium, dressed in all white, under the gold and red  banner of the organization.


    In front of us were the many officials and officers, watching skeptically with crossed arms. One figure in particular stood out, a large man with white hair and a white beard in the very center, gazing at us with one eye closed.


    The announcer spoke of how proud they were, and how they promised that ¡°After the implementation, we would become ¡°pioneers of a new era,¡± and would be destined to ¡°bring about a new world.¡± Followed by the indistinct blur of speaker and microphone feedback.


    Under the warmth of the sun, a sense of pride welled-up inside me. There was excitement and cheers. I don¡¯t know what it was, but even I found myself smiling. This was supposed to be our reward.


    We were driven for about an hour, watching as the roads grew emptier. When we stepped out of the black vehicle, we were greeted by stiff, dry air.


    There were about twenty of us children, all accompanied by our handlers. One of the other kids, one with golden hair, waved at me. I waved back, even though I didn¡¯t know who they were. Though we were vaguely aware of each other, we were all mostly strangers who trained together.


    I felt an overwhelming sense of discomfort as I looked ahead, to a small white warehouse ¡ª  an old facility with faded white paint and crumbling corners. I glanced around and realized that the entire town was like this. Empty and abandoned, run down and covered in weeds and plant-life.


    One of the black-suited men raised the hatch open, and with a screeching rumble, we were blasted with cold, sterile air.


    The metallic hatch groaned, and my skin crawled as I saw what was ahead. Inside the vast, dimly lit room, stood a single figure in a white gown, whose face was obscured by glasses and a surgical mask. But it was not the man that frightened me, but the dozens of small cages surrounding him.


    My mind scrambled to figure out what was going on. Where were we? What do they plan to do with us?


    Turning my head, I saw that the others felt the same. Our senses were screaming at us not to go in, but our handlers kept us in line, grabbing us by our wrists.


    All of us were forced to walk forward, one after the other. But as one of us was put in the cage, he cried at the top of his lungs, the shrill shrieking piercing my ears for a moment, only for him to be met with a black barrel against his mouth.


    We weren¡¯t even allowed to cry, unless we wanted to be silenced permanently.


    I could feel the blood being squeezed, my hands turning red as my handler pulled me into the facility, every heartbeat felt like it was about to burst.


    Everyone complied, and were forced to walk into the building. Each step closer into the cold.


    And yet, one broke free from his handler by biting his hand. Behind him were the cars and the other handlers, so he fled forward toward freedom, rushing into a narrow alley, where his fate was sealed. Unable to squeeze through, a clean shot left his body suspended in the gap between buildings.


    His blood painted a stark lesson: we were expendable, and defiance meant death.


    Fully realizing the weight of the situation, the rest of them entered without a fight. But me¡­the fear and nausea gripped my throat, and I collapsed.


    Too weak to resist, I was dragged through the dirt. My face scraped against the concrete once again as they shoved me into a cold metal cage labeled ¡°201.¡±


    As I placed my hands against the iron-bars, I watched the metal hatch rolling down.


    There was no escaping here ¡ª not from the cold, nor from the cage, and not from what came next.


    ~

 The Blue Boy and the Red Girl part 1

    Chapter 17


    The Blue Boy and the Red Girl


    In the darkness, Felix¡¯s fingers wrapped iron bars, the cold seeping in through his skin. Only thin slivers of light slipped through the narrow slits of the door. From the other side of it, violent screams erupted from the other side as men cast blame on one another.


    ¡°What did you do?!¡±


    ¡°You took the wrong vial!¡±


    ¡°That was the experimental!¡±


    The white slivers of light turned gold, and grew brighter and brighter until the walls cracked and shattered into a yellow boom.


    Felix¡¯s eyes shot open to the sight of an unfamiliar ceiling. He turned his head and saw a familiar face sat on a chair and curled up on the left of his bedside. Her head peacefully resting on the bed that he was in.


    He turned to the right as he caught the faint scent of coffee, where he found a cup standing atop a small white table, and next to it was a vase full of half-wilted flowers.


    ¡°Asters?¡± He muttered out with a quiet, gravelly voice, ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°Felix¡­you are¡­¡± Maria gleefully snored out.


    He smiled lightly and reached his hand to pat her head, but the memory of her with a blood-stained smile flashed in his head, stopping him. He pulled back his hand with a nervous expression.


    The door slid open and a nurse entered. With black hair tied into a bun, she walked to the counter.


    ¡°Good afternoon, Mister Aster. You¡¯re finally awake. How are you feeling?¡± She asked with a soft voice as to not wake up Maria.


    ¡°Still sore, and a little uncomfortable with her sleeping on my bed.¡±


    The nurse placed her palm on her cheek, ¡°Truly now? That sounds rather cold considering that she¡¯s been by your side this entire time.¡±


    ¡°This place is... a Golden Lion hospital?¡±


    The nurse smiled and introduced herself, ¡°Correct. Lauren Williams, at your service.¡±


    ¡°Where¡¯s my stuff? My necklace?¡± He panicked as he scoured his chest frantically, only to stop and gaze at his right hand in disbelief.


    ¡°Try to relax. It¡¯s safely placed there in the cabinet with the rest of your belongings.¡±


    ¡°So, how long have I been here?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve been asleep for almost five days now.¡±


    ¡°Urgh, five days? How bad was my condition?¡± Felix rigidly dragged his body to sit up.


    The nurse retrieved the clipboard from the desk as she listed down the things that happened to him, ¡°You were in pretty bad shape when you got here. Three fractured ribs, one of your lungs were punctured, internal bleeding, and your entire body was covered in bruises.¡±


    ¡°Is that all?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s also this unusual concentration of caffeine in your body which we believe to have contributed to slowing down your recovery.¡±


    His eyebrows curled slightly, ¡°It hurts to be betrayed by something I hold so dear to me.¡± Felix jokingly lamented as he thoughtlessly petted Maria¡¯s head like a cat.


    ¡°When you arrived, your body was already undergoing some form of hyper-accelerated healing, and by the time the doctors were about to begin operating on you, you were already out of critical condition. We¡¯ve never seen anything like it. It¡¯s amazing how quickly you¡¯ve recovered. But that¡¯s probably thanks to Professor Tetsuya¡¯s genius.¡±


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    I don¡¯t know why, but listening to her praise the professor felt like listening to a grating noise.


    ¡°R-right¡­ if that¡¯s the case, then I should probably get some exercise. Five days is a long time¡ª urgk!¡± He suddenly grabbed his stomach, feeling a piercing pain run through it.


    ¡°Nope, you should rest for a little while longer. Your body burnt itself out by accelerating the healing process.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± His bed creaked as he plopped back down.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯re awake, I¡¯ll need to perform routine checks on you, so would you please wake up Miss Readman and ask her? I¡¯d do it myself, but truth be told, she scares me.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Understandable. Hey Marie, Marie¡­¡±


    ¡°Mhm¡­ five more minutes¡­¡± The black-haired woman mumbled.


    Felix scowled and gently placed his hand on Maria¡¯s head, but as he did, he stared at his hand. His eyes widened, and his mouth parted. A ringing filled his ears as his memories began to flood back in his mind. Of his battle against Moritz, Beast, and Oscar.


    Sweat dripped down his face. A wave of panic came rushing through his body, and his breathing grew heavy as he vividly remembered his hand being turned into a burnt, empty stump.


    ¡°Ow, ow! I¡¯m up, I¡¯m up.¡± Maria yelled out, and Felix snapped out of it. He found himself gripping her hair tightly.


    ¡°Ah¡­ Marie¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡± He apologized as he let go of her.


    ¡°Owie¡­¡± She rubbed the back of her aching head, ¡°Hey there, you. You¡¯re finally awake. How you feeling?¡± She mumbled out, still half-asleep.


    ¡°Alive. It¡¯s all foggy, I can¡¯t remember much after I fought with that one guy, Moritz. What¡­ what happened?¡±


    ¡°Well, we failed our mission, and all we have to show for it is the joker card he left behind.¡± She said as she showed him the card.


    As he grabbed it, she spoke, ¡°Don¡¯t bother. No fingerprints or any trace of who this Moritz guy was. It¡¯s a card you can get anywhere.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡± He muttered as he rubbed the cardboard between his fingers, before pausing to look at his own hand.


    His eyes widened with the realization as he looked at both of his hands. Looking front and back as his breathing began to race, ¡°My¡­ my hand¡­ MY¡ª ¡±


    ¡°Your hand is fine.¡± She quickly grabbed his hand, squeezing it between hers, ¡°Calm down, I made you some coffee¡­ but¡­ it¡¯s probably cold now.¡± She glanced at the small white table beside him where the wilted flowers lay.


    His breathing steadied, and he pressed his hand against his forehead, ¡°Th-thanks Marie.¡± He weakly replied as he glanced back at the now-crumpled joker card.


    ¡°Now let me get back to sleeping...¡± She blurted as she placed her face back to his bedside.


    ¡°Actually, you kinda have to go at the moment.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re going to do some quick medical exams to see if he¡¯s a hundred-percent alright now. You¡¯re free to return as soon as we¡¯re done.¡± The nurse said as she held up a syringe.


    Felix felt a mild chill crawl through his spine, but as his eyebrows furrowed with discomfort, Maria smirked.


    ¡°Want I should hold your hand before she sticks it inside you?¡±


    ¡°Leave.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s good to see you¡¯re already getting better. But before I go¡­¡± She said as she handed him a mirror before leaving.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    Maria pointed to her own left eye before leaving the room. As Felix looked into the mirror, he smiled and placed his hand on his cheek. His left eye had finally turned blue.


    ¡°Finally.¡± He sighed, ¡°Took it long enough¡­¡±


    But his time to revel was cut-short as the nurse spoke, ¡°Mister Aster. Your physical exams.¡±


    ¡°Oh, um¡­ right.¡±


    A few moments passed and his physical exams were finished. Felix was putting on his necklace.


    The nurse wrote on her clipboard as she went through it, ¡°Everything seems to be in proper functioning order. The soreness should go away after two days or so, and we can discharge you immediately. I¡¯ll leave you some pain killers here, just in case.¡±


    He placed his necklace underneath his shirt and asked, ¡°And¡­ my right hand?¡±


    ¡°It appears your hand was in pretty bad shape, but by the time you arrive, it was already recovering.¡±


    His eyes lowered as the memory flashed to when he was younger, where a bleeding hand reached out towards the sky from the rubble.


    ¡°Well, call me if you need anything.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Ah, wait¡­ Can you leave the pen?¡± Felix asked as the nurse was about to leave.


    ¡°Alright then. I¡¯ll be back in a bit, okay?¡± She cheerfully replied before leaving the room.


    ¡°¡­Stars, huh?¡±


    Felix fiddled with the pen with a blank expression on his face, but while he did, he began to recollect the memories of his last mission, as well as the humiliation that he was put through.


    Though as he lowered the pen, a thought still persisted to linger in his mind, ¡°What it means to be an esper?¡±


    These words leave him stranded and clueless, yet his frustration could not be seen in his face. He brought the pen up again. His blue eyes focused on the pen between his fingers, waiting for it to lift.


    ¡°Come on, come on¡­¡±


    He looked to the side where the wilted asters were. With a sip of his coffee, he whispered to himself; ¡°Again.¡±


    He picked up the pen once more.


    ¡°A fire that doesn¡¯t burn¡­¡± He took a deep breath.


    A surge of heat began to course through him, from his arms, focusing on his palms. The pen between his hands began to radiate with blue particles of light, lifting in the air.


    As he kept it steady, his empty expression turned into a smile. However, it didn¡¯t take long for the pen to shake rapidly between his hands, evidently growing unstable as the light that surrounded it overflowed like a wildfire. It shook more and more violently, yet Felix was unaware of how to stop it.


    There was a knock on his door as a voice called out, ¡°May I come in?¡±


    The door slid open, and Isabelle took a step inside with flowers in her arms. But as she walked in, the rogue pen struck directly above her.


    A scared whimper escaped her lips as her knees gave up on her.


    As the flowers scattered to the floor, Felix could only mutter two words; ¡°Ah¡­ sorry.¡±


    ~

 The Blue Boy and the Red Girl part 2

    Awkwardly, Felix greeted the silver-haired woman sat near his door, ¡°Ah hi, Isabelle.¡±


    ¡°H-hi, ahem, hi there. How long have you been awake?¡± Isabelle asked as she got up and replaced the flowers in the vase.


    ¡°About an hour ago. So you must¡¯ve been the one who left these flowers.¡±


    ¡°It was actually Nero, he visited yesterday while you were still asleep. I wanted to visit sooner, but Maria was around, and¡­ to be honest, she scares me.¡±


    ¡°She does tend to do that. I appreciate the thought.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad. Do you like them? They¡¯re asters. I thought you would like them since...¡±


    ¡°Since it¡¯s in my name?¡±


    ¡°Now that I think about it, it¡¯s a little tacky, isn¡¯t it? I-I think they¡¯re alright, your eyes remind me of flowers, after all.¡± She twirled her hair with an embarrassed smile.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. But I¡¯m surprised you¡¯re alone.¡±


    ¡°I actually came here with Nero, but he went to the lobby. He told me not to disturb him while he¡¯s busy watching.¡±


    ¡°So then, why did the two of you come here?¡±


    ¡°We came here to formally thank you for the help. We were probably still green and ill-prepared to deal with such a mission.¡±


    ¡°¡­Speaking of ill-prepared¡­ I actually saw one of Jackal¡¯s Fangs.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Maria¡¯s report did mention that, though the details are messy and all over the place. Are you sure it was one of them?¡±


    Felix placed his hand on his throat, ¡°Considering how dangerous they were¡­ I have no doubt that he was the real deal.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m glad you survived.¡±


    He then shrugged his arms and jested, ¡°I¡¯m glad I didn¡¯t get to meet another Lewis.¡±


    Isabelle¡¯s then scratched her head and spoke, ¡°Um, about that.¡±


    ¡°No.¡± His eyes widened.


    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be the bearer of bad news, but¡­¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    ¡°Lewis Shaw broke out.¡±


    ¡°Bollocks! Again?¡±


    ¡°¡­ As expected of a master escape artist.¡± She answered with passing interest.


    Felix let out a sharp, annoyed glare as she gave the criminal praise.


    ¡°R-right. He¡¯s still dangerous and should be put behind bars.¡± Isabelle quickly tried to amend her thoughtless comment.


    The blue-eyed man sighed, stood up and pulled the pen out of the wall. He then handed it to her as he said to her, ¡°You told me that you¡¯d show me what it means¡­ to be an esper?¡±


    ¡°Ah, that¡­ I did say that, but you¡¯re still recovering, so it¡¯s probably not the best time right now.¡±


    ¡°I see, but¡­ can you at least show me?¡± He said as he sat back down.


    ¡°That¡¯s not¡­¡± She tried to keep her gaze away, but she keeps glancing back to his persistent stare.


    ¡°Okay, but I¡¯ll have you know I¡¯m not exactly the best teacher.¡± She answered with a glimmer in her crimson eyes.


    She sat next to him, and put the pen in his hands, ¡°Now, show me a demonstration first.¡±


    Felix took a deep breath.


    A memory slipped in as he tried once more, one with coffee, where Luna sat before him over on a wooden desk. Her ember-lit eyes looked like they shimmered in the cold snow.


    With a fire-like haze, orange and burning, yet transparent, she lifted up a clover necklace without ever touching it.


    ¡°It¡¯s a fire that doesn¡¯t burn, it¡¯s a force that lets you bend objects to your will. One day, when you¡¯re able, I¡¯ll teach it to you.¡± Luna placed her hand on his head.


    ¡°A force that bends objects to your will.¡± He mumbled out loud as the pen started to glow in his hand.


    Isabelle, who sat inches away, gazed in awe at the light that flowed from his palms.


    ¡°Your aura is¡­ overflowing¡­¡±


    ¡°So aura is what it¡¯s called?¡±


    Felix watched as the bright blue flames slowly morph into a ball of light that around the pen, but without even noticing, his right hand appeared to have been caught in the fire.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    She noticed his face contort into discomfort, uncertain of what to make of it.


    His hand was instantly swallowed up, and a gasp escapes his chest, ¡°Hah¡ª!¡±


    ¡°Felix, are you okay?¡± Isabelle yelled out.


    ¡°My hand¡­ my hand¡ª!¡± With a panicked voice, he cried as his hand slowly crumble into ash.


    ¡°Why, what¡¯s wrong with your hand?!¡±


    He began to hyperventilate as he watched the flames eat away at the cinders.


    White ash slowly cluttered the air, and his hand disappeared from sight, replaced by an azure flame that was shaped exactly like it.


    A sharp sting radiated through his wrists, but he could not feel the heat or trickle of the energy, and watched as the flames slowly dissipated into nothing.


    He closed his eyes and ¡°¡ªIt¡¯s gone! My hand is gone!¡±


    ¡°Calm down, calm down.¡± The pen fell to the ground as she grabbed his hands, ¡°Your hands are still here, see?¡±


    The burning blue orb dissipated, and Felix slowly opened his eyes as he felt her palm tightly squeeze his.


    ¡°It¡¯s right here, see?¡± Standing right in front of him, she gave a reassuring smile as she held his hand.


    His haggard breaths steadied, and his panicked expression slowly returned to normal. Felix let go of her hand and looked at them.


    ¡°Did um, did something happen?¡± Isabelle looked as he wiped the sweat off his face, ¡°That is¡­ If you don¡¯t mind me asking.¡±


    ¡°They had...¡± Felix gulped, ¡°They had some sort of weapon. A bright stream of light that¡­ destroyed my hand.¡±


    He tightened his fist, only for Isabelle to grab it, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s here. You¡¯re alright. It¡¯s alright.¡±


    Felix slowly lifted his head, ¡°Isabelle¡­ Thank you.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡ª Sorry about that¡­¡± She suddenly lifted her hands from his own with a flushed face.


    ¡°Ah, a-anyways, I need to find a way to properly explain it¡­ mhmm¡­ It¡¯s like, it¡¯s sort of um, in a way, the light we emit is sorta like water, but at the same time it¡¯s like fire.¡± She said with a flustered expression, as she was stringing together her messy explanation.


    ¡°That¡¯s confusing.¡± Felix fiddled with the pen in response.


    ¡°Sorry, it¡¯s was a little difficult, but I think I got it. It¡¯s something more you feel rather than explain.¡± She twirled her hair.


    Still confused, Felix replied, ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°I would love to show you, but¡­¡± She took the pen from Felix¡¯s hands, her eyes shined with a piercing crimson.


    Her body started to radiate as crystal-like crimson flames wrapped around her body. The pen between her hands started rapidly turning and spinning, dancing to the red pathways forming in it.


    The room nearly instantly turned red ¨C the air became thick as an oppressive sensation began to flow out of her.


    A deep rumble filled the room: The bed began to rattle, and the decorum started to quiver. Felix felt the grip of gravity letting go, as if the air itself was pushing him up, down, and side to side. Like he was being gently pulled towards every direction.


    Her body began to crackle in crimson electricity.


    But as it started to slowly form a sphere of red around her, she stopped.


    ¡°It¡¯s weird, it feels like I¡¯m touching the whole room.¡± She mumbled out as she took the pen, her face flushed red, ¡°¡­I wish I could teach you, but I¡¯m not able to control it yet.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°Yeah, sorry¡­ I think that the best way to learn is by having the Black Hound teach you.¡±


    Almost instinctively, Felix responded, ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± She gave a startled face, ¡°David Soldier? The top one?¡±


    ¡°Oh, right. Him.¡±


    ¡°Did¡­ you not know?¡±


    ¡°Of course, I know¡­ It¡¯s just easier to pretend he doesn¡¯t exist.¡± He turned away his gaze.


    ¡°Did¡­ did something happen? Between you and him?¡±


    ¡°No. It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°Please be direct with me. I don¡¯t want to be messed around with.¡± She pouted.


    ¡°Force of habit. It¡¯s something I¡¯d rather not talk about.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay. Sorry for prying¡­¡± She replied awkwardly.


    The conversation came to a halt as an uncomfortable atmosphere surrounded the two. Neither of them could open their mouths, as they could not find the right words to continue the conversation, or even break the awkward silence.


    Five seconds awkwardly pass, and Felix clutched the necklace under his shirt, feeling the leaves on the metal clover.


    He mustered his strength to remove the tension, and spoke his thoughts.


    ¡°¡­ My mentor taught me what she could. She told me that the basis of all of this was movement. But she never actually taught me what it was like. How it worked, how it ¡°felt.¡± I wasn¡¯t able to use it on command, and teaching me theories would have amounted to nothing if I couldn¡¯t experience it myself¡­ so I wanna learn how to do this as soon as I could.¡±


    She tilted her head and remembered the conversation she overheard from Maria and the Chief.


    ¡°So in other words, he blames David for his mentor¡¯s disappearance?¡±


    The memory of Maria¡¯s cold stare flashed in Isabelle¡¯s head. She gave him a smile and replied, ¡°I¡¯ll be glad to help you when I figure it out.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡± He smugly scoffed, he then took hold of the pen and muttered, ¡°Let me try it again.¡±


    ¡°I think it¡¯s better to rest.¡±


    ¡°Just one more try¡­¡±


    He insisted as he eagerly tried it again, turning into a projectile that flew through the opening door. Only to be caught in the hand of a familiar figure.


    ¡°Your smile is really creepy. Stop it, stop being happy.¡± Maria walked into the room with a dissonance between her indifferent expression and her annoyed tone.


    ¡°Oh, hey Marie.¡± Felix waved innocently as his closest friend entered the room.


    ¡°Ah.. I¡ª¡± Isabelle¡¯s heart started weighing her down with every beat.


    ¡°Sigh, I was gone for twenty minutes and you¡¯re already getting swept off your feet by some vampire wannabe.¡± Maria tossed the pen back to the silver-haired girl, who awkwardly caught it.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Felix shrugged his arms calmly.


    Isabelle stood up, ¡°Vampire wanna¡ª What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    Maria pouted and glared at the silver-haired girl, ¡°Shut it. Your very existence threatens my position as main heroine.¡±


    She then walked into towards him, ignoring Isabelle entirely as she placed a cup of coffee beside Felix. She then grabbed him by the chin and leaned in with a stern expression, ¡°If you keep hanging out with her, I might just end up becoming a bad guy.¡± She threatened.


    Felix placed his hand on Maria¡¯s head, and rubbed it gently. ¡°You brought me coffee. How could you possibly be a bad guy?¡± He said with a warm smile.


    Maria¡¯s face immediately turned beet-red, and her gaze lowered to the ground with a flustered expression. ¡°That¡¯s a low bar for morality, dummy...¡± She remarked.


    Isabelle¡¯s stared with confusion as she thought to herself, ¡°Did I just become a third wheel?¡±


    He then lifted up his hand and mumbled, ¡°Ah¡­ m-my bad. It¡¯s just something Luna used to do.¡±


    She crossed her arms, ¡°I-it¡¯s fine¡­ Anyways, we were supposed to be sent for our new mission, but¡­¡±


    The scent of smoke emanated from the air as the chief stood beside the door, cigarette in hand, ¡°But seeing as you¡¯re still recovering, I¡¯m sending Maria out on her own for now. Besides, you still haven¡¯t written your side of the report. So tell me, Felix Aster. How was your first failure?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to rub it in¡­¡± He sighed.


    She leaned in and asked, ¡°Then tell me, how did it feel facing a Jackal¡¯s Fang?¡±


    Felix¡¯s hands clenched above his knees. His head lowered as he tensed up, ¡°¡­ Exciting.¡±


    ¡°Oh? Good answer.¡± The chief responded, her eyes could be seen through her orange-tinted glasses, her expression a wry grin. ¡°It¡¯s time for you to train for real.¡±


    ~

 The Blue Boy and the Red Girl part 3

    The sound of heavy rain beating against the pavement filled the ears of an orange-haired girl lying on her side. She could not breathe, her eyes were too fixated on the sight before her to even take an inhale.


    ¡°What happened?¡± She asked herself in a weak, trembling voice, ¡°This was supposed to be an easy mission.¡±


    ¡°Kaitlin!¡± Rico shook her around, ¡°Kaitlin, snap out of it!¡±


    There was a scorched red line on the cliff¡¯s road, and the armored vehicle she rode on had been split in half.


    A flash of lightning revealed two silhouettes stood atop the cliff, watching the two espers crawl out.


    ¡°This sure is powerful.¡± Said a blond man wearing a trilby and sunglasses. In his hands carried a black pipe-looking weapon with glowing circuit patterns.


    ¡°Told¡¯ya. Mister Oscar¡¯s manufacturing went swell.¡± Replied an orange-haired young man standing beside him.


    Their attention suddenly turned toward the sliced vehicle, as a man in handcuffs suddenly got up. ¡°You bastards sure took your time!¡± The man yelled.


    ¡°There he is! Lewis Shaw! The great failure of an escape artist!¡± The orange-haired man replied.


    ¡°Moritz, get me out of these cuffs!¡± Lewis demanded.


    ¡°Ever heard of the word ¡°please?¡±¡± The jester responded. He then turned over to the blond man, ¡°Julius?¡±


    Julius nodded, his purple silk scarf swaying in the wind.


    And then to the other side, and nodded his head to where seemingly no one stood. Raindrops fell on an unseen figure beside them.


    The two figures slid down the cliff and approached the shackled criminal. As they did, a man crawled out of the halved vehicle and asked, ¡°Rico, what happened?¡± Confused by what had just happened.


    ¡°They sliced through the armored truck¡­ to get Lewis¡­ I think that¡¯s the guy from Maria Readman¡¯s report. Moritz Wulfe¡­ and that weapon¡­ it has to be the one Mister Felix encountered.¡± Rico explained.


    ¡°This was supposed to be an easy mission¡­¡± Kaitlin repeated the sentiment she had, confused and distraught by their situation, ¡°We were only supposed to take him to Cocytus¡­¡±


    Rico turned to the groaning man and asked, ¡°Harvey, can you walk?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I think so¡­¡±


    ¡°Grab Cameron and let¡¯s get out of here.¡± Rico pointed towards the unconscious man still in the other half of the vehicle.


    ¡°Ah¡­ right¡­¡±


    Lewis approached the two figures, hopping along as both his arms and legs were bound by cuffs.


    ¡°Unfortunately, we don¡¯t have any tools¡­¡± The jester shrugged.


    ¡°Then how do you¡ª¡±


    Suddenly, an armored hand sliced through the chains between his arms, and then the ones on his feet.


    ¡°Who¡­ what are you?¡± Lewis asked.


    Moritz smiled and answered the question, ¡°This is a little friend we made¡­¡±


    Suddenly, sparks and pixels suddenly lit brilliantly next to the clown, and an armored figure appeared out of thin air.


    ¡°Whoops, looks like your camo short-circuited. I guess Illusion Tech doesn¡¯t work well in the rain.¡± The jester laughed as he placed his hand on the figure¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°Don¡¯t touch me.¡± The armored figure spoke in a modulated voice, swatting away his hand.


    As they conversed, Rico picked up Kaitlyn and slowly walked away, along with two others. But before he could move more than a few feet, a line of white alabaster light scorched through the ground next to him.


    ¡°Up, up, up. Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Moritz smirked.


    Rico turned his head with a frightened expression towards the criminals.


    ¡°You got who you came here for, right? Lewis is already in your custody.¡± Rico responded as he put on a brave front.


    ¡°True, but I¡¯d rather not let you escape and¡­ your lady friend is¡­ she¡¯s¡­¡± Moritz¡¯s eyes met with Kaitlin¡¯s, his voice slowed down and a wide grin formed around his face. ¡°Those eyes¡­¡±


    In the darkness of the rain, her glowing, mismatched eyes reminded Moritz of Felix.


    ¡°You¡­ you¡¯re like him, aren¡¯t you? Like Blue Phantom¡­¡± He snickered.


    A vicious wave of hatred shot out from Moritz¡¯s body and snapped Kaitlin out of her stunned trance. She gasped for air and started to breathe in sharp, short intervals fueled by panic and fear.


    ¡°Such terrifying killing intent¡­¡± Harvey muttered under his breath, ¡°Rico, can you do something about him? You¡¯re an esper, right? Just like Felix and Anastasia, right? You should be able to deal with them.¡± His questions sounded more like desperate pleas.


    Not intimidated by the jester¡¯s blood lust, Rico asked, ¡°You¡¯re Moritz, right? Safe to say the rest of them are Jackal¡¯s Fangs?¡±


    ¡°Nothing about you is safe at this very moment.¡± The jester responded.


    Rico felt overwhelmed by this answer, but decided to stand his ground and grinned, ¡°So which one of you bastards is the Jackal, then?¡±


    ¡°Let me guess, you wanna unleash righteous fury? Get revenge for all the people he¡¯s killed and bring justice to the world? Tough luck, champ, but the boss ain¡¯t here. Better luck next life.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, as long as I get to end one of you, that will be enough¡­ to satisfy my revenge!¡± Rico ran up to them, quickly closing the distance.


    ¡°Julius!¡± Moritz shouted.


    ¡°On it!¡± Julius responded, and the cannon began to light up. But before it did, Rico leapt towards them and ax-kicked the weapon to the ground.


    ¡°Kate! Harv! Run!¡± Rico shouted.


    ¡°Ah, that¡¯s another two-hundred thousand¡­¡± Julius lamented as the weapon was smashed against the pavement.


    ¡°DON¡¯T LET HER ESCAPE!¡± Moritz ordered.


    Rico then kicked the blond man to the side and pointed his thumb towards himself, proudly declaring, ¡°She¡¯s not the only one you have to worry¡ª!¡±


    Suddenly, the armored figure struck his spine.


    ¡°GRYAAAAH!!¡± Rico let out an agonized scream as his body was flung across the ground.


    The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Rico!¡± Kaitlin cried out while Harvey tried desperately to pull her to safety.


    Moritz slowly approached, ¡°And am I supposed to be worried about you, too?¡±


    ¡°Be careful with him. I¡¯m certain that he¡¯s also an enhanced human. An esper.¡± The armored figure remarked.


    Rico shakily got up and raised his fists.


    ¡°Oh, this is gonna be good¡­¡± The orange jester giggled.


    They started trading blows.


    As an enhanced human, there should have been a clear superiority in Rico¡¯s speed and strength, but his mobility was clearly hampered by the damage he had already accumulated. Moritz, on the other hand, took him lightly and taunted him with every missed shot.


    Though the jester¡¯s fists did little damage, each blow was an attack to both his body and his spirit.


    With an arrogant grin, Moritz reeled back his arm, ready for a big swing. But before it could land, the sound of gunfire caught both of their attention.


    The orange jester turned his head and saw the two men standing behind Kaitlin, nervously aiming at him. They fired a second time, this time grazing his clenched fist.


    ¡°I TOLD YOU TO RUN!¡± Rico shouted at the two men.


    But as a third bullet was shot, the armored figure jumped in the way to protect the jester. The fragment of lead bounced off the obsidian black armor, and the armored figure then lunged towards the three agents.


    Both Harvey and Cameron unloaded every round they had against the armored figure, hoping it would have some effect, but the armored figure was not fazed.


    With a high-pitched yelp, Kaitlin placed her hands on the road and pulled up the rubble, forming a concrete shield glued together by her crystalline red energy.


    But that didn¡¯t slow down the armored figure, who punched through the concrete standing in the way. Before the freckled esper could even react, the armored hand grabbed her face and pulled her against her own shield.


    Rico noticed as her shield collapsed, he then struck his knee against Moritz¡¯s face and rushed towards her.


    ¡°Hey! I¡¯m still here!¡± He yelled as he punched the armored figure¡¯s head into the ground. A pained groan escapes his mouth as his knuckles bled.


    ¡°Not a bad punch, kid¡­¡± The armored figure remarked as they slowly got back up.


    ¡°How about taking this seriously?¡± They raised their arms, and the armor began to radiate with bright white circuitry, similar to the cannon.


    Rico nervously raised his own, a second round of fisticuffs.


    Julius walked over to Moritz and asked, ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°The fucking brat knee¡¯d my fucking nose.¡± The orange-haired man answered as he blew out blood from his nose.


    ¡°If you¡¯re alright, then can we leave here yet?¡± Lewis whined.


    ¡°No, not yet.¡± Moritz hissed, glaring at Kaitlin, ¡°Not until we have that girl.¡±


    Rico and the armored figure exchanged a barrage of blows.


    Every hit left a crack on the pavement that they stood on. Little by little, his stained white shirt was torn off, and the skin on his fists gradually turned to a darker color, all while the armored figure kept the same pace, never missing a beat.


    Aware of his approaching defeat, Rico firmly planted his feet, grit his teeth, and put all of his strength into his right arm. With his whole body, he swung.


    A shockwave could be felt in the air as it struck the armored figure, ¡°A good punch. An admirable final stand.¡±


    The armored figure pulled out a combat knife, ¡°Sorry kid, but it¡¯s time to end this.¡±


    With a sharp swing, the figure struck, followed by the squelching sound of flesh. But their armored arms rattled as Rico caught the blade through his palm. Even as blood gushed out of his palm, he pushed back the knife and clutched his enemy¡¯s hand.


    ¡°I¡¯ll make you all pay.¡± Blood started streaming from Rico¡¯s nose as he declared, ¡°I¡¯ll make you all pay! For my friends, for my family. For all of the destruction, and everyone you¡¯ve ever slaughtered in the Fallen¡ª!¡±


    Gunfire echoed through the air, and blood spewed out of Rico¡¯s mouth.


    ¡°Ri¡­ Rico?¡± Kaitlin weakly mumbled.


    Rico clutched his bleeding chest and immediately realized that there were two holes that formed on him, ¡°the¡­ Fallen¡­ Sun¡­¡± He muttered weakly before promptly falling to the ground.


    The armored figure pulled back their knife and grabbed Rico¡¯s arm.


    Moritz blew the smoke coming from his gun, and picked up the black cannon on the ground, ¡°Well, this is gonna cost us another hundred grand.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry that this was the outcome, but I too, have something¡­ someone to fight for.¡± The armored figure said as they gently placed Rico¡¯s convulsing body on the pavement. Though the voice was modulated, there was sincerity in every word spoken.


    When the jester reached the armored figure, he smiled and spoke, ¡°So, what do you think of the new powered suit? It¡¯s based on¡ª¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care.¡± The figure quickly cut him off.


    ¡°Hmph¡­ now¡­ for the girl.¡± He passed by the figure and continued to head to the red-eyed girl on the ground. Blood lust emanated from the jester¡¯s glare, stunning the three figures.


    ¡°Rico! RICO!¡± Kaitlin desperately cried. Her body crackled with crimson lightning.


    ¡°Huh?¡± The jester stepped back as he saw flames with crystalline patterns forming around her body.


    The armored figure then leapt to where Moritz stood, preparing to guard him for whatever was coming.


    A drop of hot, boiling blood slid down the young woman¡¯s nose as a crystalline crimson dome formed around her, her arm glowing a bright, hot red, and started cracking and deteriorating.


    Her other eye started to shift back and forth between dark brown and radiant red.


    But before anything could happen, the freckled girl¡¯s arm flew into the air with one clean slice, struck by an alabaster white beam that easily tore through her crimson dome.


    ¡°I¡¯m not dealing with this shit a second time.¡± Moritz¡¯s voice dripped with animosity. Though the armored figure¡¯s face was hidden behind a metal mask, it was clear that they were stunned by the jester¡¯s cruelty and indifference.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Kaitlin slowly turned her head to the side and saw the drone floating in the distance, meters above her.


    She fell to the cold ground with a wet thud. Her eye shifted its color to match the other, becoming a bright red in the process.


    Her arms crackled with crimson electricity, and an agonized scream rushed out her throat, clawing at her lungs, begging to escape as her regeneration began.


    Kaitlin¡¯s new bones pierced through the burnt stumps and formed twig-like branches that spread out into several directions, and her veins and muscles came out like bent wires, following the trail of lightning that her body was producing.


    ¡°Her regeneration¡­ it¡¯s¡­¡± The armored figure spoke in horror as the freckled girl¡¯s own body twisted and malformed.


    Her shrill cries made both Julius and the armored figure uncomfortable, but the Moritz stared without pity, not looking away, but rather with blank contempt.


    The jester ordered in a cold tone, ¡°We take her back with us.¡±


    ¡°Mhm.¡± The armored figure nodded and approached the red-eyed girl.


    ¡°Somebody¡­ anybody¡­ Felix¡­ help us¡­¡± She weakly as her own arms grew back in a misshapen form, her flesh contorted and wrung like wet cloth, wrapped over branching bones.


    The figure knelt down beside her, and a raindrop ran across the helmet¡¯s black metal cheek, ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ if only Felix could help me, too.¡±


    Rico¡¯s voice suddenly boomed, ¡°Harvey¡­ take her and run, DAMN IT!¡±


    He could barely raise his head as he pulled out the bullets from his chest.


    As he crawled, he placed his palm on the ground, and with a creaking screech, the two halves of the armored vehicle were suddenly pulled together by an invisible force, sealing Harvey, Kaitlin, and the other agent inside, and nearly slicing the armored figure¡¯s head off.


    ¡°What happened? How did he do that?!¡± Moritz mumbled as he watched.


    Rico balled his hand into a fist and tightened it as hard as he could, ¡°If I die here¡­ then I might as well¡­ use every last drop of psychic energy¡­ to save them.¡±


    Blood burst out of his nose and eyes as he struck the pavement.


    As it made impact, his arm exploded into nothing but blood and viscera, with nothing remaining of his hand but the shattered remains of his bones.


    The road snapped in half, and the whole area around him shook.


    ¡°What?!¡± Moritz growled as he looked back at Rico, but his enraged expression turned to shock as he felt the rumbling in the ground.


    Suddenly, the cliff above them began to crumble, and an avalanche of dirt soil spilled forth in their direction.


    Julius and Lewis found themselves just a few feet fortunate enough to not have to deal with Rico¡¯s final attack. But Moritz and the armored figure were at its dead center.


    The jester aimed his cannon at the earthen tidal wave, and split it in half with the beam of light, while the coursing mud swept the armored vehicle downwards into the cliff.


    ¡°Urk! Hurk, gr!¡± He growled as the mud and rain on the pavement made him lose footing, and the energy cannon sizzled with streams of electricity, burning his already wounded hands.


    His eyes narrowed with determination and anger, the drizzle dripped on his face.


    But he and the weapon could not stop all of it, and he was swept away. For a total of two seconds just before it ended.


    The jester huffed with exhaustion as he looked at the crescent moon above him.


    ¡°Looks like the rain¡¯s over.¡± The armored figure remarked with an open palm.


    Moritz got up from the mudflow with an enraged look and shouted, ¡°AFTER ALL THAT, AND I DIDN¡¯T EVEN GET HER!¡± He glanced over to Rico¡¯s leg, while the rest of his body was still underneath the soil and rubble.


    ¡°ALL BECAUSE THIS¡­ bastard¡­¡± He slowly turned his head to the armored figure and asked, ¡°Earlier, you said that this guy is also an enhanced human, right?¡±


    There was a momentary pause.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure¡­¡± The armored figure sounded as if they wanted to deny their own words.


    He clicked his tongue in response, ¡°Help me get his body.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no way his body is still intact.¡±


    Despite his burnt and damaged arms, Moritz still had the strength to pull out Rico¡¯s body from underneath the mud. The wet soil made it easier than it should be.


    Moritz grinned and remarked, ¡°Enhanced humans sure are something else. I didn¡¯t get the glowing eyed girl, but you¡¯ll have to do, Rico.¡±


    ¡°Tsk.¡± The figure clicked their tongue.


    The two other criminals then approached.


    Julius placed his hand on the armored figure¡¯s shoulder and commented, ¡°I must admit, this new ally of yours is really strong¡­ where¡¯d you find them?¡±


    The figure then slapped away his hand out of disgust.


    ¡°That¡¯s a secret.¡± Moritz grinned as he lifted up Rico¡¯s corpse, ¡°For now, Lewis, help me bring this back. We¡¯re headed to the base.¡±


    ~

 Orientation part 1

    Chapter 18


    Orientation


    Lauren Williams headed back to check on Felix¡¯s condition with a clipboard in hand, where she saw two women standing up at his door.


    Her eyes focused on the older woman in the deep green vest with a cigarette in her hand.


    With a shock-ridden expression, the nurse stormed into the room and confiscated the cigarette from the chief¡¯s hands.


    Chief¡¯s orange-tinted glasses dropped slightly as she reacted, ¡°Eh?¡±


    She announced, ¡°Miss, this is a no-smoking zone!¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ r-right.¡±


    She then licked her finger and pressed it on the part that was lit, then threw away cigarette in the trash bin.


    The Chief looked down on the recovering Felix through the opaque lenses of her round, orange lenses, ¡°So I see that both of your eyes are now blue. It¡¯s always such a unique sight to see glowing eyes.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I guess it happened when¡­ when I¡­¡± Felix placed his hand against his forehead, unable to recollect the events of the last mission, ¡°What¡­ happened?¡±


    ¡°Maria told me everything. How you defeated Bentley East, who is now in our custody. About Moritz and the laser weapon he used, and the man he was with, Oscar. As well as the tragic passing of Agent Petrichor.¡±


    He looked at Maria, who smiled sweetly back at him, and then his eyes shifted to his shaking hand, which he clutched tightly, ¡°So, when are we gonna hunt them down?¡± He asked excitedly.


    ¡°Calm down. Other operators will handle it. For now, there¡¯s people I want you to meet with.¡± Chief then turned around and instructed, ¡°Come with me.¡±


    ¡°My patient isn¡¯t going out until he makes a full recovery.¡± Lauren adamantly declared as she got in between the two.


    Felix could only watch with wide eyes and an awkward smile as the two stared at each other.


    ¡°Do¡­ you not know who I am?¡± The Chief asked in disbelief.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care who you are. My patient has not fully recovered, and as such, is staying here. Now all of you, get out.¡± The nurse pushed all three of them out the door.


    Speechless, the only word the chief was able to blurt out was, ¡°¡­Huh.¡±


    From outside the room, the chief looked back and said to the blue-eyed young man, ¡°Felix, I expect your report soon.¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, sir.¡± Felix answered.


    The nurse then angrily shut the door on the chief.


    ¡°Well, that just happened.¡± The chief was completely dumbfounded by the nurse¡¯s actions.


    ¡°From the looks of it, Felix will be fully healed in an hour or so. It won¡¯t take long. In the meantime, I¡¯m gonna go kill some time before my mission.¡± Maria shrugged.


    Both Chief and Isabelle stood silently as they watched her leave.


    ¡°I should be going too.¡± The Chief stated as she started walking away.


    ¡°Chief Nguyen¡­ is the person you want him to talk to¡­ David Soldier?¡± Isabelle replied as she followed.


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ he¡¯s still going to be taught by him?¡± She tilted her head.


    ¡°How did you¡ª?¡±


    ¡°I overheard your conversation, you know, enhanced senses and all that. I¡¯m sorry if this is stepping out of line, but... don¡¯t you think he shouldn¡¯t?¡±


    She then turned towards Isabelle and confronted her, ¡°Are you suggesting that the two of you teach him in David¡¯s place?¡±


    Isabelle lowered her gaze, ¡°It¡¯s only been six months since we went through the implementation. We aren¡¯t exactly experts, either.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­¡±


    ¡°David isn¡¯t the only one, right? If David taught him while he still holds those heavy feelings, then I doubt he¡¯d learn. Maybe¡­ maybe the one who recommended his gun?¡±


    The Chief paused for a brief moment as she stared down the white-haired agent, ¡°Nero¡¯s right. You really are a busybody, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Isabelle looked up at the chief with solemn eyes.


    ¡°Sigh¡­ she¡¯s¡­ difficult to handle. But I¡¯ll see what I can do.¡± The chief answered. ¡°For now, I have a meeting to set up for Felix.¡±


    *


    Hours passed, and the sky was bright and blue. When Felix woke up, he stretched out his arms. No longer did he feel the pain.


    ¡°It¡¯s amazing, but¡­ you¡¯re good to go. Just take these every three hours, and here¡¯s some pain killers.¡± Lauren handed him the medicine.


    Felix sighed as he made it back to headquarters. He crossed through the glass doors beneath the gold and red banner.


    ¡°I need some co¡ª¡±


    The author''s narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.


    ¡°Felix?¡± Carol spoke, sat on the couch at the entrance.


    ¡°Oh, hi Carol.¡± He greeted softly.


    ¡°How are you feeling? I heard what happened.¡±


    ¡°A little stiff¡­ but I¡¯ll¡ª¡± He stretched out his arms before realizing, ¡°Wait, how?¡±


    ¡°¡­um¡­ a robin told me.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°I was worried about you, so I wanted to see how you were doing.¡± She tiptoed and patted him on the head.


    Suddenly, his heart skipped a beat and his face quickly turned red. He placed his hand on his hair where she patted him. He recalled moments like that one from a time long past and far out of reach.


    ¡°I see¡­ a-and how are you?¡± Felix sheepishly replied


    ¡°I just got back from my last mission.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m glad to see you¡¯re okay. What was it? Or is that classified?¡±


    She breathed into her palms and answered, ¡°I had to capture Lewis Shaw. He should be in custody by now.¡±


    ¡°Lewis escaped again? Are you cold, tired? Would you like some coffee?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine, just a little tired.¡±


    ¡°Th-they do grind us to the bone.¡± Felix laughed awkwardly as he scratched his cheek, ¡°As long as you¡¯re protecting the peace, right?¡±


    ¡°About that. Something I envy is that the Golden Lion is that the people in it are actually working to fix broken parts of the system, even though its achievements in doing so are small.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t all the twelve agencies do that?¡±


    ¡°The people in Cygnus Enterprise are more interested in lining their own pockets than anything.¡±


    ¡°Is that so? I wouldn¡¯t be surprised. Most corporations are like that aren¡¯t they?¡± Maria asked as she opened the door and walked up to them with a container full of cookies in her hands.


    ¡°Oh, hi there. My name¡¯s Carol. It¡¯s nice to meet you.¡±


    ¡°¡­I¡¯ve seen you before. Lying in a hospital bed where Felix brought you.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡± Carol replied, not knowing how to reply to her statement.


    ¡°Cookie?¡± Maria offered from the newly bought cookies.


    ¡°Ah, th-thank you.¡± She answered as she took one.


    ¡°Maria Readman. Nice to meet you.¡± She introduced herself with cheerful wide eyes.


    ¡°So, what brought you to the agency?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­Actually, I came here to see the Chief Vivian Nguyen.¡±


    ¡°Then you should have scheduled an appointment.¡± The chief declared as she walked up to them with an irritated look on her face, ¡°I¡¯m quite a busy person.¡±


    ¡°Chief? Something wrong?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°I received some... troubling news. Nothing that concerns you. Looks like the other guests have arrived.¡± She responded as she looked out the glass walls of the lobby.


    From outside, a car could be seen crossing through the gates. The two recruits from Frontier Industries flashed small pins to the glass door and it opened. A young woman with silvery white hair and a young man with golden blonde hair, both of whom with different shades of red eyes.


    ¡°Hiya.¡± Isabelle gleamed and waved.


    ¡°Oh great, you two.¡± Maria blurted out in dismay.


    ¡°Formally make an appointment next time, understood?¡± The chief instructed.


    ¡°Ah¡­ y-yes.¡± Carol nodded compliantly.


    ¡°Chief? Where¡¯ve you been?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°Just got back from Agent Petrichor¡¯s funeral. Now, the rest of you, with me.¡± The chief called to the rest of them.


    The four operatives followed the chief to a red library, where two figures in white robes stood.


    Felix saw an unfamiliar face and asked, ¡°Professor Tetsuya... and?¡±


    ¡°Professor Levi.¡± Isabelle waved at the professor with sunglasses above his slick-black hair.


    ¡°So this is Levi Ripley.¡± Maria commented as she invaded Professor Levi¡¯s personal space and straightened out his tie, tightening it to an uncomfortable degree.


    ¡°Um¡ª uh, that¡¯s a little¡­ It¡¯s difficult to breathe.¡± The professor patted on her forearm, signaling for her to stop, as if to cry uncle.


    ¡°You know him?¡± Her partner asked.


    ¡°He¡¯s the one responsible for the new generation espers, Nero, Isabelle, Kaitlin and¡­ someone else.¡± Maria answered as she let go.


    ¡°How did you know that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve done a little research.¡± She cast her dark gaze over to the chief.


    ¡°Maria¡­¡± The chief lowered her orange-tinted glasses and pressed against her forehead.


    Felix went inside and sat while the other three turned their heads and glanced around with curiosity on their faces. The two professors stood ahead of them. Both Professor Yusuke Tetsuya and Professor Levi Ripley stood to greet their greatest achievements.


    ¡°That¡¯s odd. I thought that there would be four of you.¡± Professor Levi commented.


    ¡°There are four of us?¡± Isabelle tilted her head.


    ¡°I meant the espers.¡±


    ¡°You mean him?¡± Nero pointed towards the figure hidden behind the shadows.


    ¡°Hm?¡± Isabelle, Felix and the chief turned their heads to where he pointed, and saw a figure in the corner of the room with crossed arms.


    ¡°How did you know I was here?¡± The figure from behind asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not that hard when your eyes glow in the dark.¡± Nero cynically remarked.


    ¡°It¡¯s been a while. How are you, um¡­¡± Isabelle waved awkwardly, trying to be polite to the man in the shadows.


    With glowing crimson irises, the man stepped forward, revealing himself with dark brown hair tied to a ponytail behind him, and a small scar on his chin.


    He extended his hand to the blue-eyed agent from beside the door and the shadows. ¡°You must be Felix Aster.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Felix replied as he shook his hand as he was still standing, illuminated from behind the door.


    ¡°I have high expectations of you.¡± He said with a cheerful smile.


    ¡°Of course you do.¡± The blue-eyed man responded with a tinge of sarcasm, ¡°And you are?¡±


    His hands felt cold and hard, as if it were wrapped in metal. Maria watched as the two shook their hands with a suspicious glare.


    ¡°He¡¯s Grant Jaeger. He was a bounty hunter who found his way here, and possesses a similar skill set to Maria in terms of hacking and breaking in.¡± The Chief explained.


    ¡°S-so there you are Grant, all of you take a seat.¡± Professor Levi awkwardly mumbled.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but this is for the espers only.¡± Professor Levi gestured for Maria to stop.


    ¡°But isn¡¯t Maria one of us?¡± Isabelle tilted her head.


    ¡°She¡¯s a stage one, only an enhanced human. She¡¯s not like the rest of you.¡± The professor clarified.


    Maria scoffed and crossed her arms, declaring, ¡°I¡¯m Felix¡¯s partner, where he goes, I go.¡±


    ¡°Yes, but¡ª¡±


    Felix placed his hand on the professor¡¯s shoulder and asked in a polite manner, ¡°She¡¯s my partner. She goes where I go.¡±


    ¡°I see. I suppose we can make an exception. Alright then, right this way¡­¡± Intimidated, Professor Levi responded defeatedly.


    ¡°That¡¯s more like it.¡± Maria patted the professor on the shoulder and peppily entered the room.


    The rest all followed suit and sat on the chairs that they were provided. Felix particularly scowled at the bearded old man sitting on the table ahead of him, and the bearded man waved with a smile.


    Professor Levi wiped his sweat off and said, ¡°Then, there¡¯s one last missing from batch Delta¡­¡±


    ¡°Actually, that¡¯s all of them.¡±


    ¡°What? But there should be four of them with red eyes, right?¡±


    The chief gestured her finger for him to come closer, and then whispered in his ear, ¡°Kaitlin McCay is dead. Her body is on its way back.¡±


    ¡°Wh-what?¡±


    ¡°She was still alive yesterday, but her regeneration only prolonged her suffering. The ravens reported that they couldn¡¯t find Rico Bryce¡¯s body, either.¡± The Chief pinched her cheek and muttered in a disgruntled manner, ¡°This is why those fools should have never let her go into the field.¡±


    ¡°But I requested them not to let them out yet?¡±


    ¡°After spending thirty million, they grew impatient and sent her to an early grave.¡± The Chief gnawed on her fingers and continued, ¡°Fortunately, they didn¡¯t blow her brains to smithereens. Hopefully, so we can still salvage and try again.¡±


    Professor Levi cast his gaze down, taken aback by the suddenness.


    But before he even had the opportunity to take it in, the Chief spoke, ¡°I¡¯ll be going to retrieve her body. Only tell them what they need to know.¡±


    He adjusted his sunglasses and nodded his head, ¡°Alright then.¡±


    On his chair, Felix turned his head and noticed Chief Vivian¡¯s shadow beginning to move away, ¡°Chief? Where are you going?¡±


    ¡°I have a quick errand to run.¡±


    ¡°That translates to ¡°I¡¯m gonna have a smoke break.¡±¡± Felix explained to the rest of them.


    ¡°How do you know that?¡± Isabelle asked him.


    ¡°Something my mentor taught me.¡± He smiled and scratched his cheek.


    The Chief then turned her head towards the room, ¡°You all wanted answers, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡®You all?¡¯ Felix thought to himself, only to realize that all of them looked at the chief with narrowed eyes. All of them were starving for answers.


    ~

 Orientation part 2

    The lighting in the room dimmed, save for the single light in the center and the holograms that were on the table. The black-haired professor cleared his throat before speaking. While professor Tetsuya scrolled information through holographic screens.


    ¡°Allow me to begin. Now where do I start?¡±


    Isabelle glanced around and asked, ¡°Wait¡­ weren¡¯t there four of us, Professor? Where¡¯s the other girl, Kaitlin?¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡±


    ¡°The ice cream girl.¡± Maria commented.


    ¡°She¡¯s¡­ unwell. She¡¯s currently in the hospital, we¡­ don¡¯t know when¡­ or if she¡¯s gonna get better.¡± He adjusted his sunglasses and looked away, unable to tell her the truth.


    Her red gaze lowered to the floor, ¡°I see¡­¡±


    Though the silver-haired woman accepted this, both Maria and Grant clearly saw through his words and realized it immediately. And even Felix and Nero had an inkling that something was wrong.


    ¡°Like I said before, she should have never joined the mission. That¡¯s why¡­ that¡¯s why you must learn these things that we will teach you.¡± The black-haired professor nervously gulped and felt a weight in his heart.


    ¡°Phoo, is that right?¡± Maria blew out air towards her bangs.


    ¡°Ahem. You, the ¡®children of stars¡¯, have undergone a program known as ¡°The Implementation¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hell.¡± Both Nero and Grant spoke simultaneously.


    Felix looked over to them and murmured, ¡°Hell, huh¡­¡±


    His eyelids rose up as the memory returned. The vision of a hand reaching upwards to the sky. He took in a deep breath and reached into his shirt, holding the necklace.


    ¡°I understand. It was indeed, ¡°Hell¡± as you refer to it. And truly, you lot have gone through it, and survived. You were thus rewarded in ways we could never imagine.¡± Professor Levi lifted his black rimmed glasses.


    ¡°Psychic power, right?¡± Grant answered nonchalantly.


    ¡°Correct. Now, allow me to explain to you our research so far. You all, as enhanced humans, possess an ability that defies physics. The ability to produce an unknown force dispersed by brainwaves, one that which we believe may be a theoretical fifth force, puts a big question mark on how we understand the universe. In short, allows you to move things with only your mind.¡± He smiled nervously, like a scientist going mad.


    ¡°If this was a cult, then you¡¯ve already lost my interest.¡± Grant scoffed.


    ¡°Whatever the case, our abilities¡­ this energy can be boiled down to telekinesis, is that it?¡± Nero asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s not exactly energy in a conventional sense¡­ but, simply put, yes.¡± The professor answered.


    ¡°So what, is it like magic or something?¡± Isabelle asked.


    ¡°No¡­ Magic is something else entirely. This has rules¡­¡± Maria chimed in.


    ¡°You¡¯ve dealt with magic before?¡± Felix turned his head towards his partner with curiosity.


    The dark-haired woman lowered her gaze in response, ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t know¡­ but magic is the only way I could describe whatever that was, I barely escaped with my life.¡±


    Magic¡­


    Felix thought to himself. He covered his face as he recollected the events of the previous mission, remembering the trickery his enemy, Moritz Wulfe, used.


    No, that definitely wasn¡¯t magic. It was more like what happened with Natsumi.


    He recollected the moment he first met the obsidian idol.


    A voice spoke up, bringing his attention back to the conversation.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard from bounty hunters who tell stories about their encounters with magicians¡­ Still having trouble believing in them.¡± Grant commented, his tone was a mix of surprise and disbelief. The brown-haired man then looked up and asked, ¡°So if it¡¯s not magic, then what did you implant in us give us our powers?¡±


    ¡°Honestly speaking¡­ we do not know.¡± Professor Levi answered, while Professor Tetsuya turned to the side, looking at a different holographic interface, as if to avoid looking anyone in the eye.


    Professor Levi continued, ¡°The description for Project ASTRAEA involved developing a genetic altering material by using the DNA samples from various extraordinary individuals throughout the Millennia, creating a compound known as ¡°The Yliaster.¡± However, we cannot figure out how this anomaly occurred. We initially believed it was an error or miscalculation, but¡­ is among the most incomprehensible of abnormalities that we have encountered thus far.¡±


    ¡°Ooooh, those are some big boy words¡­¡± Maria playfully taunted.


    ¡°The problem is how we cannot observe your abilities until you produce them. They appear to be stored within your brain, but we have no way of detecting your energy until you release them. It is indeed quite a mystery.¡±


    ¡°Basically, we¡¯re on our own to figure it out?¡± Grant asked.


    ¡°We intend for all of you to receive training from your senior, David Soldier.¡± Professor Levi answered.


    Felix turned his head at Professor Tetsuya, and spoke with a voice dripping with animosity, ¡°So this was your goal then? This is why you wanted to create superhumans?¡±


    Professor Tetsuya took a deep sigh and answered, ¡°There¡¯s a limit to the regeneration of cells. Once that limit has passed, it stops. But as enhanced humans, as espers, you all bypass that limit by an unimaginable margin. Your ability to regenerate is beyond anything humans are capable of, being able to bring back limbs and even damaged body parts.¡±


    Maria glanced over to Felix and said, ¡°Nothing leaves a scar on us.¡± The same words she told him during their first mission.


    ¡°Regeneration¡­¡± Felix looked at his own hand, remembering a blurry vision of the white beam of light that tore it apart.


    ¡°So we¡¯re like axolotls? Can we come back if our brain is destroyed?¡± Grant asked.


    ¡°Unfortunately, your ability to heal has limits. A shot to the head or to the heart means certain death. You¡¯re not immortal, but you¡¯re ahead of the game, at least.¡± He then sighed as he read crumpled the document in his hand, ¡°The point of this project was initially to improve the human body and increase natural longevity. That all changed when made discoveries that the military wanted to capitalize on.¡±


    ¡°Yes¡­ um. First stage increases the regeneration speed to the point where you can regrow limbs, second stage doubles that, and so forth. I mean, that¡¯s¡­ generally how all of your powers work, according to our calculations. Each stage doubling the power of the last¡­¡± Professor Levi tried to explain.


    ¡°Quick question.¡± Nero spoke up.


    ¡°Yes, indeed, what is it?¡± Professor Levi responded.


    ¡°Why do our eyes glow?¡±


    ¡°See, the Yliaster alters your DNA at a fundamental level. It has biologically altered you in a way that allows your irises to become bio-luminescent.¡±


    ¡°But why?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ we do not know that yet.¡± Professor Levi responded in a resigned tone.


    ¡°Is that why my hair turned white? Why didn¡¯t anyone else¡¯s hair turn white?¡± Isabelle asked the rest of them.


    ¡°I had a little bit turn white, but it made me feel old, so I dyed it.¡± Grant looked at her and answered.


    She turned to Nero and asked, ¡°What, you... you dyed your hair? Nero, did you dye your hair?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Felix?¡± She asked once more.


    ¡°No...¡±


    ¡°Maria?¡±


    Maria kept silent for half a second before answering, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Only the ones who¡¯ve fully awakened their full potential have their hairs turned white. A full head of white hair denotes that one has reached esper maturity.¡± Professor Levi explained.


    ¡°Or that we¡¯re in our early forties or mid-fifties.¡± Maria scoffed.


    ¡°I took it as a symbol of¡­ moving forward, but maybe I should also dye my hair.¡± Isabelle mumbled as she combed her hair with her fingers.


    ¡°If it¡¯s any consolation, I like your hair that way.¡± Felix commented.


    This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    ¡°Ah, thank you.¡± She smiled at him sweetly.


    Maria rolled her eyes in annoyance at the two.


    ¡°Wait, so by fully awakened, what does that mean?¡± Grant asked.


    ¡°The rate that it changes the body varies per individual depending on their compatibility to the drug.¡±


    ¡°My hair turned white after the first week.¡± Isabelle spoke.


    ¡°Huh? Mine only started to change a month ago.¡± Grant replied.


    ¡°Hmm, yes, indeed, that makes sense. Because it normally begins with changing the eye color and making it bio-luminescent, then followed by turning the hair white. There are no visible effects on first stage espers. Maria and the rest are, by definition, enhanced humans. Nothing more.¡±


    ¡°This all sounds new to me.¡± Maria expressed genuine surprise before speaking in a low, frigid voice, ¡°To think there¡¯s still so much more.¡±


    ¡°And enhanced humans¡­ what do you mean? Is it just us getting stronger? Because when I woke up the next day, not only did my eyes start glowing and a lock of my hair turned white, but I felt dizzy. I felt everything around me become¡­ more¡­ much more¡­ it was a lot to take in. I had to stay in bed for a week after what happened.¡± Grant explained.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t simply enhance your current abilities. It changes you biologically. It reduces the physical limits and forces your body into its natural peak. Sight. Smell. Taste. Hearing. Strength. Reflexes. All of it is forced to its reasonable peak, just before straining your body.¡± Professor Levi explained.


    Grant then glanced over to Isabelle with a question ready, ¡°How did you¡­ how was it that you managed to get full access to your power?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t¡­ know¡­ I just felt happy¡­ and slowly it changed on it¡¯s own.¡±


    The pony-tailed man then placed his palm against his face as he descended in thought.


    Happiness, huh? Psychic power¡­ clearly that has to do with psyche. Is it a case by case basis? What sort of mindset is necessary to unlock our full power. Even if we do, that doesn¡¯t mean we¡¯ll be able to control it, so it¡¯s worth taking it slow. Still, time isn¡¯t a luxury I can afford.


    As those thoughts swirled through Grant¡¯s head, Nero then raised a question, ¡°I¡¯m still curious as to why our eyes glow red, but Felix¡¯s glows blue.¡±


    ¡°Felix is a fourth stage esper. The only fourth stage we have so far, while the rest of you are all third stage.¡± Answered Professor Tetsuya.


    ¡°So then, does that mean he possesses more raw power?¡± Grant asked.


    ¡°And by raw power, you mean the amount of aura we possess?¡± Nero added.


    ¡°Which would mean it would take more time to merge with him if he weren¡¯t compatible?¡± Isabelle added her own question.


    ¡°Yes, yes, and yes.¡± He immediately confirmed the trio¡¯s inquiries.


    ¡°Then¡­ what happens if a fully awakened esper decides to move to the next level?¡± Grant threw out another question.


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ I don¡¯t know¡­¡± Professor Levi answered.


    Professor Tetsuya quickly chimed in and answered for him, ¡°It would be redundant. Your eyes will change color, and your power will increase greatly. But you have already overcome what was keeping you from being fully awakened, so you will be fully awakened as soon as you take another stage. Although that just means you risk your life one more time, rather than doing it all at once and continuing from there.¡±


    ¡°Then why did we have to go through each stage?¡± Nero perked up.


    The black-haired professor cleared his throat and answered succinctly, ¡°Because if you do it that way, the odds of dying drop drastically.¡±


    Both Isabelle and Nero¡¯s mouths were left agape.


    ¡°So rather than maxing out your stats and risk dying to level up, risk dying to max out your level now, and max out your stats after. Is that the gist of it?¡± Maria put it in terms that she could best explain.


    ¡°That¡­ sounds about right.¡± The professor adjusted his sunglasses as he replied with a hint of confusion.


    Grant¡¯s eyes narrowed, ¡°What¡¯s keeping us from fully awakening? What do we have to overcome?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s for you to figure out. It took seven years before Felix¡¯s other eye finally turned blue. It takes time for the Yliaster to fully bond to the individual.¡± Professor Tetsuya explained.


    Nero glanced over to Felix and taunted, ¡°Does this mean that you weren¡¯t compatible with it, or that you can¡¯t overcome your issues?¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyebrows furrowed in annoyance, but he refused to answer to the provocation.


    ¡°But that still doesn¡¯t answer the different colors.¡± Grant remarked.


    ¡°I would like to say that the colors of the Zeta radiation, or aura, as you refer to it, resembles fire and heat intensity. But according to our research, that isn¡¯t the case. First stages would have no visible physical changes, second stages would have orange eyes¡­¡±


    Felix immediately thought of David Soldier as the professor explained.


    ¡°¡­Third stages would have red eyes¡­¡±


    The red-eyed trio looked at one another.


    ¡°And fourth stages would have blue eyes.¡±


    Maria looked at Felix, and Felix looked back at her.


    ¡°While our currently experimental fifth stage would possess yellow eyes, and defectives would often have two of the known colors, signifying a misstep in their biology.¡±


    ¡°Defectives?¡± Isabelle perked up, looking at the professor.


    ¡°Defectives, the first generation would often have sudden, uncontrollable outbursts of psychic energy. But unlike the first generation, the stabilizers would not work on them.¡±


    ¡°Stabilizers?¡± Isabelle asked again, this time with a hint of concern.


    ¡°Actually, now that you¡¯ve finally awakened your psychic abilities, it¡¯s important that you have these. They took a while to develop considering you¡¯re the only fourth stage, but they¡¯ll help you deal with potential telekinetic outbursts.¡± Professor Tetsuya then threw a small bottle toward Felix.


    As Felix caught the bottle thrown at him, Maria pointed to herself and asked, ¡°What about me?¡±


    ¡°The newer generations have no need for this.¡±


    ¡°Ah, mhm¡­ Who knows? Maybe I might.¡± She shrugged.


    ¡°Maria, you¡¯re a stage one.¡± Professor Levi replied.


    ¡°Yeah, yeah, whatever.¡± She crossed her arms and pouted.


    ¡°Wait, can we wind it back to ¡°telekinetic outbursts?¡± What¡¯s that?¡± Isabelle suddenly raised her voice.


    ¡°It doesn¡¯t concern you new generations.¡± The old professor scratched his white beard.


    ¡°Maybe it doesn¡¯t, but I¡¯m tired of being kept in the dark. Do our powers just suddenly go boom?¡± Her hands waved around as she pursued the topic with a slightly frantic voice.


    ¡°Well. I-indeed.¡± Professor Levi replied.


    ¡°This drug was made as a way to deal with rampant psychic power.¡± Professor Tetsuya explained.


    The blue-eyed esper scowled, ¡°And you only thought to give this to me now?¡±


    ¡°You did not need it until now, and I was only able to perfect it recently. Giving you an incomplete version would have had catastrophic results, especially¡­ after what happened to the others.¡±


    ¡°There were others?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Yes. Several before you. For them, the incomplete version only delayed the process, but also charging the destructive power.¡±


    Isabelle let out a high-pitched noise, ¡°How exactly were you able to perfect it?¡±


    ¡°That... I cannot say.¡± Professor Tetsuya answered somberly. There was a soft, subtle glow in his irises, revealing the lengths he went through.


    ¡°So, are there any other questions?¡± Professor Levi asked with a nervous, awkward smile.


    ¡°... So let me just, um, let me get this straight then. Going through the implementation and surviving, turns our hair white, changes our eye colors and makes them glow, and gives us what? Telekinesis?¡± Isabelle summarized what she understood as concisely as possible.


    ¡°Indeed, it also heightens senses and speeds up the healing process.¡± He added as he fixed his glasses.


    ¡°This is a bit too much information take in¡­¡± She pressed her index fingers to her temples, clearly overwhelmed by the large amount of information.


    ¡°Seems clear enough to me.¡± Maria remarked.


    Nero scratched the back of his head, ¡°Sounds like a fair trade considering we had a ninety-five percent chance of dying.¡±


    ¡°Ugh¡­ don¡¯t remind me.¡± Isabelle responded as her eyebrows curled at the recollection. A single drop of sweat made its way down from her forehead to her chin.


    Grant then spoke up his own opinions, ¡°I scoffed at the idea of getting super powers from a drug from a made by a shady corporation.¡± He paused for breath, then continued, ¡°Then I was made to watch a red-haired girl on fire stop bullets, and lift up without even touching them. I thought they were showing me were edited footage or some illusion technology. But after her display, the girl walked up to me and said hello. It was like a scene from a movie.¡±


    ¡°Red-hair¡­ You mean agent Tundra?¡± Felix asked.


    Nero grinned.


    ¡°Is that her code name? Yeah, her.¡± Grant replied.


    ¡°So, any other questions?¡± Though those words escaped his lips, Professor Levi nervously hoped that no one would ask any more questions.


    ¡°Yeah¡­¡± Grant perked up and looked at him, ¡°Can you tell me what that place was?¡±


    ¡°What place?¡±


    ¡°The one with the ocean.¡± Grant answered.


    ¡°The sea of stars¡­¡± Nero muttered out as he looked at his own hand.


    Isabelle looked at them and responded, ¡°You guys saw that too? Did you guys also¡­¡± She said as she reached out her hand upwards.


    ¡°Reach for the stars? Yeah¡­¡±


    ¡°I did.¡± Both red-eyed men nodded in agreement.


    Maria turned to Felix and whispered, ¡°Do you know what they¡¯re talking about, bud?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ think so¡­ yeah. I remember being there a few times.¡± Felix replied as the vision in his mind distorts, fluctuating between the sight of the starry night sky in the sea, and the fiery sight of the hell he went through during the implementation.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ afraid I don¡¯t know what you mean.¡± Professor Levi replied, unable to answer.


    Professor Tetsuya interjected and explained, ¡°David and Anastasia once said that after the implementation, they found themselves surrounded in an endless sea, and above them was the night sky. That they reached for it, and then they woke up. Other than that, we have no information.¡±


    ¡°Well, there you have it. But we¡¯ll look into it if you like¡­ So, any other questions?¡± Professor Levi muttered nervously.


    ¡°How many people¡­ died in these experiments?¡± Isabelle asked with a distraught expression.


    Nero glanced downwards with a vicious glare.


    Felix¡¯s eyes widened as he heard Isabelle¡¯s question. His breathing grew heavy, and a glowing blue mist began to radiate from over him.


    ¡°Calm down, bud.¡± Maria placed her hand on his shoulder. ¡°We¡¯re fine. You¡¯re fine.¡±


    Professor Levi placed his hands in the pockets of his white coat. His voice caught stuck in his throat, unable to answer the simple question laid out for him, ¡°I suppose that¡­ I¡¯ve told you¡­ all of the information we could¡­ indeed.¡±


    ¡°Indeed. You have.¡± Felix looked at Levi with a somber blue gaze, to which he had swallowed nervously.


    All of them stood up, except for the panicked Felix. Maria stretched out her arms upward, while Isabelle extended hers to Felix.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Ah¡­ y-yeah. Thanks.¡± He answered as she took her hand as he stood up.


    As the lot of them got out of the room, leaned against the wall was Chief, with her hands in her pockets, ¡°So, are your questions answered?¡±


    ¡°Chief? You¡¯re back quick.¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°I just needed to check on something, so what have you learned?¡±


    ¡°Too many things to recount.¡± Isabelle answered with an exhausted sigh.


    ¡°And the rest of you?¡±


    Nero interjected and lifted his fist, ¡°While the average Elite Agent could probably dent or put a crack on the wall, with psychic power, we can¡ª¡±


    ¡°Stop! Stop. If you say you can shatter the wall with a punch, we believe you. Just... we don¡¯t need any unnecessary expenses...¡± Chief yelled in a panic.


    ¡°Ah¡­ okay.¡± Nero responded with a disheartened tone.


    ¡°Well, I have an errand to attend to, as per someone¡¯s request.¡± Chief then eyed down Isabelle with a sharp scowl.


    Isabelle swallowed and scratched the back of head as she gave the chief an awkward smile.


    ¡°Felix, I¡¯m arranging a meeting for you soon.¡±


    ¡°Meeting? With whom?¡± Felix gave her a puzzled look.


    ¡°You¡¯ll find out. Now prepare for your next mission. As for the rest of you, you are dismissed.¡±


    The three red-eyed espers gave their goodbyes and branched off from Felix and Maria.


    ¡°Bye.¡± Isabelle waved.


    ¡°See ya later, pipsqueak.¡± Nero added.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be looking forward to working with you, Felix Aster.¡± Grant gave a wide smile and left last.


    As they exited the door and left their view, and the two headed back as well.


    ¡°So, what do you think of them?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Isabelle¡¯s nice, Nero¡¯s a jackass and Grant¡­ he¡¯s¡­¡±


    ¡°Up to something?¡±


    ¡°I was gonna say sketchy.¡±


    ¡°Pfft¡­ who isn¡¯t sketchy in this place?¡± She shrugged with a carefree giggle.


    ¡°I¡ª¡± Felix paused, ¡°You¡¯re one to talk with how much you scurry around in the background like that.¡±


    She grinned and boastfully asked, ¡°What are you gonna do, stop me?¡±


    Felix shrugged his arms and responded, ¡°Nah¡­ I trust you.¡±


    Her eyes widened and she looked away as her cheeks turned slightly red, ¡°Idiot.¡±


    As soon as the red in her face faded, she looked over to him once again and asked, ¡°So, what was this magical sea of stars you guys were talking about?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ it¡¯s all very blurry, but¡­ it all felt so real. I don¡¯t remember reaching out my hand like they did, but yeah¡­ I still have faint memories. What about you? What¡¯s this about you fighting magic?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t¡­ I remember hearing the waves in my ears, but¡­ As for fighting magicians¡­ that¡¯s¡­ I don¡¯t know either, it¡¯s all too¡­ foggy.¡± Maria¡¯s eyes furrowed, blinking rapidly as she tried to remember.


    Felix placed his hand on her head and smiled reassuringly, ¡°There¡¯s no point lingering on it. Let¡¯s go get some coffee.¡±


    ~

 Introductions part 1

    Chapter 19


    Introductions


    Felix stood by the door of the chief¡¯s office. He took a deep breath and was about to knock on the black wooden door, but before he did, he heard a muffled from the other side that said, ¡°Dismissed.¡±


    He pulled back his hand as the door opened, and the white-haired girl, Isabelle, stepped out with a nervous expression.


    ¡°Oh¡ª hi there.¡± Felix greeted nervously.


    ¡°Hey.¡± Isabelle replied with a shaken voice. She tried to meet Felix eye-to-eye, but her gaze was cast down, like it was too heavy to raise her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m just¡­ gonna¡­ go.¡±  She responded nervously.


    As she walked through the corridor, Felix gulped and felt a pit in his stomach. He pulled out the pendant from under his coat and held it close to his forehead, before tucking it back in and knocking. ¡°Felix Aster, requesting permission to enter.¡±


    ¡°Enter.¡± Chief responded from behind the door.


    ¡°Why does it seem like they¡¯re always in our headquarters?¡± He absent-mindedly remarked while opening the door.


    ¡°Because they¡¯re here to start training.¡± Answered a deep, masculine voice.


    ¡°¡ªD-Director Sullivan, sir.¡± Felix responded, quick to change his casual tone and saluted the man in front of him.


    Chief Vivian sat by the desk, while the one he referred to as ¡°Director¡± stood by her side, with hands placed upon a white cane.


    There was thickness to the atmosphere as the Director stared at Felix with one eye. His left eye was closed and had two scars over it, while his right eye kept a steady gaze at the young esper.


    His hair had turned gray with age, yet his large size dwarfed both Felix and Chief.


    Dressed a white suit that looked like it was reaching its limits underneath his white coat lined with streaks of gold. His general frame could be best described as a polar bear in a suit.


    ¡°It has been a while, Felix.¡± The director greeted as he scratched his bearded chin.


    ¡°Yes, it has, sir.¡±


    ¡°Please, sit down.¡± The large man gestured.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    ¡°Would you like some tea, Felix?¡±


    ¡°N-no, sir.¡±


    ¡°Shame. I¡¯m glad to see that your hand is back to normal. According to Maria¡¯s report, you lost it during your battle with one of the Fangs. May I see it?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    Felix reached out his right hand, which the Director grabbed hold of. The large man opened his scarred eye, revealing an orange glow as he gazed at the agent¡¯s hand.


    More than that, the sclera around his orange eye was dark. A pitch black color that would normally have been white, contrasting with the glow of his eyes.


    ¡°No scars nor anything I see. Truly magnificent work from Professor Tetsuya.¡± His praise was directed, not to Felix, but to Professor Tetsuya.


    Chief sat at her desk, she did not speak unless spoken to, nor act unless ordered to. She was only allowed to silently watch the scene unfold between them, and add information that was necessary to the conversation.


    The Director closed his eye once again and let go of Felix¡¯s hand, ¡°The weapon that you got when you saved Carol Thomas. You said it released a beam of light, correct? We found large traces of nuclear radiation on it. That was likely why Lewis Shaw was exchanging plutonium.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­they¡¯re making a nuclear cannon?¡±


    ¡°Correct. Felix, I understand the eggheads in the science division not being privy to mission reports, but you should have been able to put two and two together.¡±


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°I¡ª Yes, sir. I apologize, sir. It¡¯s just that I¡ª¡± He smiled as a sweat dripped down his face.


    ¡°That you what? Were there other things occupying your mind during the mission?¡±


    ¡°S-sir, I¡­¡±


    ¡°You what? That was the same weapon that took your arm away. You realize that you should have died in that battle, don¡¯t you? By no means should you have survived an attack from that weapon. Now what could have possibly been more important to occupy your thoughts?¡±


    ¡°I¡ª sir¡ª I was just¡­¡± Felix began to hyperventilate. He looked at his right hand. The vision of a hand reaching upward invaded his thoughts. Darkening as it grew closer and closer in his mind as blood began to pour.


    The Director pulled out a pen from his shirt pocket and placed it in Felix¡¯s hand, ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯m sure you will tell me when you¡¯re ready, won¡¯t you Felix?¡±


    ¡°Y-yes, sir.¡± Felix immediately started to tinker with the pen, and his breathing slowly steadied.


    ¡°We also looked into the person that Asahi fellow was referring to. We believe that it was likely Priscilla Primrose. Otherwise known as the Reaper¡¯s Bride.¡±


    ¡°Priscilla Primrose?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. A highly dangerous criminal. Her file is available, but there¡¯s not a lot of information we have on her.¡±


    As Felix¡¯s breathing calmed down, he looked up slightly, and their eyes met.


    ¡°Are you curious about the training I stated earlier?¡±  Director asked.


    ¡°Y-yes, sir.¡±


    ¡°See, after your encounter with the Jackal¡¯s Fang, Moritz Wulfe, you called him? We have decided that your training was still lacking. We did not expect one of them to appear, so that was on me. But you have to be prepared for anything. That¡¯s what makes you an Elite, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Wait, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°Your performance thus far has been acceptable, but considering the spectacular failure that was your encounter with this ¡°Moritz¡±, and the recent awakening of your powers, you no longer have any excuses left to avoid your psychic training. We even got you a different trainer, the only other person who can teach you how to use your powers. Are we clear?¡±


    ¡°Crystal, sir.¡±


    ¡°Good.¡±


    The blue-eyed agent raised his head slightly, ¡°And¡­ what about Beast, sir?¡±


    ¡°Beast?¡±


    Chief Vivian went up to the Director and presented a tablet with the criminal¡¯s face on it, ¡°Bentley Wallace East, he was in the building where Felix found Moritz.¡±


    ¡°Ah, you mean the criminal you apprehended. He provided no useful information. I understand you went to great lengths to try to keep him alive, so we sent him to Cocytus Penitentiary.¡±


    ¡°I¡ªI see.¡± Felix took a deep inhale while the Director had a steady expression on his face.


    ¡°Felix.¡±


    ¡°Uhm, y-yes sir?¡±


    ¡°Do you still remember my old saying?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir¡±


    ¡°Say it.¡±


    Felix scrambled to remember the words that he had not heard in a long time, ¡°Karma isn¡¯t¡­ reliable, that is why we are here. We are¡­ cogs in the machine known as justice. The hammer of retribution, and we¡­ protect the peace from the shadows, sir.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. Now say it again. With your heart in it this time.¡± The Director commanded.


    ¡°Karma isn¡¯t reliable, that is why we are here. We are cogs in the machine known as justice, the hammer of retribution, and we protect the peace from the shadows, sir!¡± He repeated more confidently.


    ¡°That¡¯s right¡­ and you. You weren¡¯t able to hit the nail on that mission.¡±


    Felix gulped as the Director¡¯s oppressive words struck him.


    ¡°That is why you must grow stronger. Do better. Understand?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    ¡°Good. You are dismissed.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­ but sir¡­¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± The Director replied with a thick oppressiveness in his tone.


    ¡°What about¡­ the Matrix Key¡­¡±


    ¡°Ah, that.¡± Chief perked up, ¡°We currently have other agents hunting it down. You don¡¯t need to worry about it for now.¡±


    ¡°I also plan on meeting with the individual who invented it.¡± The Director added.


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°If that is all.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir¡­¡± He nodded.


    As soon as he exited the room, Felix released a deep, heavy sigh that he had been holding in since the beginning of the conversation. He watched his right hand with shaking fingers, unable to hold the pen tightly, it dropped.


    ¡°Was it really necessary to call him here?¡± Chief asked the director.


    ¡°It was. I wanted to see it with my own eyes.¡± Director replied as he extended his hand towards her.


    ¡°So, what exactly do you have planned?¡± Chief asked as he gave him one of her cigars.


    ¡°Now that Anya is done with her contract, she can return to the Golden Lion. So I was thinking of making a team now that we have five of them.¡± Director answered as he pulled out a matchbox from his red coat, and tried to light it up.


    ¡°Five? Don¡¯t you mean eight, sir?¡± The chief stood up and brought out her lighter and lit up his cigar.


    ¡°Felix, Anya, Nero, Isabelle, and Grant. Who did I miss?¡±


    ¡°Maria, and also David and Jane, sir.¡±


    ¡°Jane is far too valuable to still be out in the field, David can no longer function properly in a team after Luna disappeared. As for Maria, I was told that she was a first-stage. Does she also possess psychic abilities?¡±


    ¡°Not in the way the others do, sir. But you said Maria would be assigned as his partner, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°Things change. It took seven long years for that boy to finally awaken his powers. Seven years we¡¯ve patiently waited for the biggest gear to finally start turning. Now the machine can finally start working. And now, our greatest weapon is active at long last.¡±


    ¡°Sir, it¡¯s still too soon. Even David took over a year to learn how to use his powers.¡±


    ¡°Vivian. If our enemies are developing new weapons, we don¡¯t have the luxury to wait around, and from the way Felix reported, it appears this Moritz fellow has access to Illusion Tech. And the Jackal¡¯s Fangs aren¡¯t the only threat to our fragile peace. Dahmer, the Shaman¡¯s Cult, Grinning Moon, and other such threats have yet to exist. We have to be prepared.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Chief Vivian agreed in a subdued manner as she sat back down.


    ¡°Not to mention the greatest danger, is there any leads to the missing esper yet?¡±


    ¡°No sir.¡±


    ¡°Then we have to make sure they¡¯re strong enough to handle it. Felix is the only one who can prevent another Fallen Sun catastrophe from happening again.¡± Director crossed his arms and looked into the distance of the window.


    ~

 Introductions part 2

    Felix headed to the head quarter¡¯s lobby with his head lowered, where he found Nero sitting down on the couch with a cup of tea at his side and a laptop in front of him.


    ¡°Put your legs off the table¡­¡± The blue-eyed man scolded as he walked up to him.


    ¡°Can¡¯t. Busy watching.¡± Nero answered with his red eyes glued to the screen.


    Felix lifted up his own leg and slowly pushed off Nero¡¯s legs off the table, yet the blond man continued watching as if nothing happened.


    ¡°Nero?¡± A deep voice called out. ¡°Is that you?¡±


    The two of them glanced over towards an older gentleman approaching them. A well-built old man with finely cut white hair and a beard. He was taller than both of them, dressed in a black tracksuit with a body that did not resemble his old age, standing in peak physical condition, and a lightning-shaped scar over his left, deep blue eye.


    ¡°Yeah... Hey there, Marshal.¡± Nero answered awkwardly.


    ¡°How are you doing?¡± The old man¡¯s voice was deep, but bubbly and full of liveliness.


    ¡°I-I¡¯m fine.¡±


    ¡°Well, I¡¯m certainly glad you¡¯re doing all right. Had I known you were going to join in the agency, I would¡¯ve¡ª¡±


    ¡°I wanted to do things on my own.¡± Nero swiftly cut him off.


    ¡°I see.¡± The old man, Marshal, responded as he sat down next to him. ¡°I¡¯m sorry this isn¡¯t the right time, but now that I finally see you again, I wanted to apologize for not being able to attend your father¡¯s¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. Don¡¯t worry about those kinds of things.¡± The blond man quickly cut him off.


    ¡°Hehe.¡± The man softly laughed to himself, ¡°I¡¯m glad you¡¯ve grown up to be a splendid young man.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s debatable.¡± Felix snarkily muttered in a low voice, looking to the side with a snide grin.


    ¡°My, I didn¡¯t notice you. Name¡¯s Marshal Frost, and you are?¡± Marshal responded.


    ¡°Marshal Frost.¡± He echoed, ¡°I see, I¡¯m Felix Aster.¡±


    ¡°Ah, yes, so you¡¯re the Black C¡ª I mean, Blue Phantom. It¡¯s nice to meet you.¡± The old man quickly corrected himself.


    ¡°Likewise. And you must be the Paladin?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. You¡¯re almost exactly as Luna described. Though I was informed that you only had one blue eye.¡± The older gentleman extended his hand.


    ¡°Ah, that changed a little while ago... Though I¡¯m glad to know Luna talked about me.¡± His tone softened as he shook the old man¡¯s hand.


    ¡°On the rare occasion that I got to see her, she would often speak fondly of you.¡±


    ¡°... I see. What was she like?¡±


    ¡°Interested, are we?¡± The old man tilted his head with a grin, ¡°Well, when I first met her, she was rather clumsy. It looked to me like she didn¡¯t know left form right.¡±


    ¡°Clumsy? Luna?¡±


    ¡°Yes. Outside of fighting, I heard that she would sometimes even cause problems, and she often lamented how she had ¡°bad luck.¡±¡±


    ¡°Ah, yeah, she would always say that ¡®luck of the Irish is a load of bollocks.¡¯¡±


    ¡°Right, right. There was even one time that our missions crossed paths and I had to take a bullet for her.¡±


    ¡°You saved her?¡±


    ¡°Many years ago, when she first arrived here in the Golden Lion. I still have the scar to prove it.¡± The old man revealed his arm, which was riddled with scars.


    ¡°I see. It¡¯s because of you that, I got to meet her. Thank you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no trouble at all.¡±


    ¡°No, really. I can¡¯t thank you enough. You have my deepest gratitude.¡± The blue-eyed young man scratched his cheek.


    ¡°Really? Then, if you truly are grateful to me, then perhaps one day, you could show Anya the same consideration, and save her if she were ever in danger.¡± The old man smiled.


    ¡°Anya?¡± He echoed curiously.


    ¡°His niece, Anastasia Frost.¡± Nero chimed in.


    ¡°Oh, I see. Agent Tundra¡­ Yeah, I¡¯m not sure I can protect someone ranked higher than me...¡±


    ¡°Come now, ranks hold no meaning. Surely you realize that by now.¡± The silver fox grinned.


    The memory of his battle against Harbinger resurfaced for a moment before responding, ¡°¡­ right.¡±


    ¡°She may seem cold and reserved when you meet her, but deep down she¡¯s very kind and soft-hearted.¡±


    ¡°... If the time ever comes, I¡¯ll do what I can.¡±


    ¡°If that ever happens, consider your gratitude repaid, young man. You¡¯ve already done enough for her, but let me be selfish.¡± The old man gave a cheeky grin.


    ¡°Right, I understand.¡±


    ¡°Good. A young man like you could use more confidence. I¡¯ll be counting on you from now on. Both of you.¡± Marshal placed his hand reassuringly on Felix¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Well then, I¡¯m off. But before I go, here. For you, too, Nero.¡± He said as he left something in their hands.


    ¡°Ah, good luck, and leave nothing to chance.¡± Felix smiled at Marshal.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± He replied as he left the two.


    As Felix opened his palm, he found candies on it. ¡°These candies. Luna said she would sometimes get them from a kind old man. I didn¡¯t know she meant that it was from the Paladin.¡± He smirked.


    ¡°The Paladin. So that¡¯s his codename¡­¡± Nero muttered without removing his eyes from the screen.


    Felix then glanced over at the blond esper, ¡°And how do you know him?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s none of your business.¡±


    ¡°And your dad and him were acquainted?¡±


    ¡°That they were.¡± Nero sipped his tea, not paying much mind to Felix, ¡°So, that luck of the Irish thing. Is that why you were called the Black Cat of Ruin?¡±


    His eyebrows furrowed, giving it a few seconds of thought, ¡°I think that was the logic behind it.¡±


    ¡°Sigh.¡±


    ¡°Felix.¡± A feminine voice called out, approaching him.


    Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!


    ¡°Oh, hey Marie, and... Isabelle?¡± He awkwardly greeted.


    Maria walked up to them with a cup in her hand, sipping soda through a straw, ¡°She wanted to tag along.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ didn¡¯t want to be alone¡­ ehehe¡­¡± Isabelle twirled her silver-hair.


    ¡°So, who was that old guy just now?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°Marshal Frost. The Paladin.¡±


    ¡°Okay. Um¡­ anything else I need to know?¡±


    ¡°Not really. He did give us these candies, though.¡± Felix handed one of the candies to her.


    ¡°Alright.¡± She popped the candy in her mouth. Her eyes began to tear up and she started panting, ¡°Sssssspicy!¡±


    ¡°Yup. I hate these things.¡± Felix smirked.


    Another figure waved to them, with deep brown hair and crimson eyes, with a wide smile and a peppy exterior. ¡°Hey. There¡¯s a table here we could all sit!¡± He called out from the small cafeteria on the other side.


    ¡°That¡¯s nice.¡± Maria responded with a bright smile before turning her back on him.


    Awkwardly, his hand lowered. His lips flattened, and his eyes furrowed as she ignored him.


    Felix turned to the two of them and said, ¡°I think he wanted us to go sit with him.¡±


    ¡°And?¡± Maria responded.


    ¡°I¡¯m busy.¡± Nero commented as his eyes were focused on the film he watched.


    ¡°Marie¡­¡±, ¡°Nero¡­¡± Both Felix and Isabelle respectively grumbled, the frustrations they felt towards their partners were summarized in the exasperated tone they spoke in.


    Grant walked up to them and pointed over to the small cafeteria in the next room, ¡°Let¡¯s go over there, there¡¯s a table where we could all eat.¡±


    ¡°Umm.¡±


    ¡°Come on, I wanted us to get to know each other better since we¡¯re working with each other. it¡¯s not like we espers have anyone else to talk to.¡±


    ¡°Ah, sure.¡± Isabelle answered.


    Felix and Isabelle looked at each other and nodded, silently coming to an agreement.


    Grant smiled awkwardly as he watched the both of them carry their partners to the table where he had pointed to.


    Felix picked up Maria in his arms. ¡°Wh-what are you doing?!¡± She stammered with a flustered, red expression.


    Isabelle picked up Nero, who made no sound other than sipping the tea in her arms as he continued watching on the laptop on his lap.


    ¡°So, how was your morning?¡± Grant asked, his head perched on his hand with a bright smile.


    ¡°Terrible.¡± Both Felix and Isabelle spoke in tandem with a dejected sigh.


    ¡°Why, what happened?¡±


    Isabelle muttered, ¡°Meeting the director¡­¡±


    ¡°¡­was incredibly stressful.¡± Felix finished her sentence.


    ¡°Sounds tough, but I bet you¡¯ll get through it. Nothing a little bit of coffee can¡¯t fix.¡± Maria patted him on the back.


    ¡°Right¡­¡± Felix smiled softly.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised. You¡¯re all surprisingly good-looking. Especially¡­¡± Grant looked to Felix. Of which Felix responded with an eyebrow raised.


    ¡°Cut the crap, what do you want with us?¡± Maria asked bluntly with low, uninterested eyes.


    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll cut to the chase; I want to ask you all what your reason for being here is. It doesn¡¯t have to be specific, just the idea would be fine.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s yours?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°A number of reasons. First; I¡¯m after a certain Golden Lioness...¡± He scratched the back of his head and a flushed red face.


    ¡°Do you mean Allison? She doesn¡¯t seem like the romantic type.¡± Isabelle replied.


    ¡°We can¡¯t be sure until I¡¯ve tried.¡± Grant confidently shrugged.


    ¡°And the second?¡± Nero asked.


    ¡°There¡¯s someone else I¡¯m after... I need power, and the agency is gonna help me.¡±


    ¡°But you¡¯re an esper. You already have power.¡± Isabelle replied.


    ¡°I meant something else.¡±


    ¡°What kind of power?¡± Nero asked as he looked at him with sharp eyes.


    ¡°Power to right my wrongs, I think everyone here needed that sort of power.¡±


    ¡°¡­Everyone, huh?¡± Maria scoffed.


    ¡°What do you mean ¡®wrongs?¡¯¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°See, war never really changes, but the men who tread through it do.¡± Grant explained.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t answer my¡ª¡±


    ¡°What about you guys?¡±


    ¡°Cryptic bastard.¡± Felix mumbled out.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start with Isa.¡±


    ¡°Why me?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re young and cute, so I want to know why you¡¯re in a place like this.¡±


    ¡°Quit being flirty, it¡¯s creepy.¡±


    Grant sighed slightly and asked her earnestly, ¡°Well?¡±


    ¡°Sigh¡­ I needed the money.¡± Isabelle answered reluctantly, looking to the side, where she wouldn¡¯t have to look anyone in the eye.


    ¡°Alright, I can tell you don¡¯t want to talk about it... but why the Project ASTRAEA?¡±


    ¡°I was told that it would¡­ mhm. I don¡¯t wanna talk about it.¡±


    Grant then turned towards the blond, red-eyed man, ¡°Nero, what about you?¡±


    ¡°Same reason you do. For power.¡± Nero responded without a hint of hesitation.


    ¡°What for?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not something as vague or noble as writing my wrongs like you think yours is. I have my own mission.¡± Nero explained.


    ¡°I see¡­ and what about you, Felix?¡±


    ¡°To become number one.¡± Felix answered.


    ¡°No, I meant¡­ why are you here?¡±


    ¡°To¡­ to protect the peace.¡±


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that just the agency¡¯s mantra? I¡¯m asking why you¡¯re here.¡±


    ¡°I-- I don¡¯t...¡±


    ¡°Grant.¡± Maria¡¯s cup crumpled slightly as she glared at him.


    He immediately got the message, ¡°Ah, right... touchy subject. Then what about you, Marie?¡±


    There was a brief pause before Maria responded. She sipped her soda until the cup was empty. ¡°¡­ Money, obviously.¡±


    ¡°Really? Something tells me that¡¯s not the case.¡±


    ¡°What, you want me to talk about some overblown tale, some tragic backstory of love and revenge? Sorry to disappoint. But, no such luck, so stop prying into everyone¡¯s privacy.¡± Maria shrugged as she stood up and threw away her cup.


    Felix turned to her and asked, ¡°M-Marie, where are you¡ª?


    ¡°I still have to attend to processing the Matrix Key. Apparently, Carol found another fragment, so I¡¯m gonna take another stab at it.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ she escaped.¡± Grant blurted out.


    ¡°If she doesn¡¯t want to talk about it, we have to respect her privacy.¡± Isabelle chastised him.


    ¡°Right. Still, I just wanted to know what you were all like, since we¡¯re all going to be working with each other. Now, let¡¯s get something to eat.¡±


    Nero got up from his chair and cracked his neck.


    ¡°And where do you think you¡¯re going?¡± Isabelle asked.


    ¡°Bathroom, be back in a minute.¡± He answered as he left the table, leaving his stuff behind.


    ¡°Oh good, you¡¯re all here. I take it you¡¯re here for lunch?¡± The chief as she got up to them. Beside her stood a short, red-haired girl with a white eyepatch that barely covered the burn mark on her left eye.


    ¡°Chief?¡±


    ¡°Allow me to order us the special.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­¡± Grant mumbled out loud with an eyebrow raised.


    ¡°Hello, Grant, right? And you must be Felix Aster?¡± The red-haired woman asked.


    ¡°You¡¯re Anastasia, I take it?¡± Felix replied as he got up.


    Chin in hand, she eyed him down with a penetrating glare, and with cold-hearted indifference she told him, ¡°This is your first test.¡± Anastasia handed him a clear bottle with blue markings, and an eighty-seven percent labeled on it.


    Felix scowled and looked at her with uncertainty, ¡°Vodka?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    As he opened it, its strong, sharp scent invaded his nostrils.


    ¡°I¡¯m supposed to¡­ drink this?¡±


    She did not respond a second time and only stared at him dead in the eye.


    ¡°All of it?¡±


    ¡°A-Anya?¡± Chief asked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s¡ª¡± Isabelle chimed in.


    ¡°Bottom¡¯s up.¡± He brought the glass bottle to his mouth while pinching his nose.


    They all watched with concerned expressions as he chugged it all down in one continuous gulp.


    As he finished its contents, Felix let out a sharp exhale and put down the empty bottle on the table, ¡°That¡ª was¡­ hic¡­¡±


    ¡°Felix, are you alright?¡± Isabelle asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m just, hic, I¡¯m¡­ fiiiii¡­.¡± Before finishing the last word of his sentence, he collapsed to the ground entirely.


    ¡°He must be out cold.¡± Nero commented as he got back up to them.


    ¡°Pfft¡­¡± The red-haired woman let out, and all of them turned their heads toward her. ¡°Puhahahahaha!¡± She burst out laughing


    Nero looked at Anastasia with a familiar smile.


    ¡°Hic.¡±


    A large figure in a suit then approached them, ¡°Sorry I¡¯m late. Why is Felix on the ground?¡± He asked with a deep voice. He had orange hair and radiating orange eyes.


    ¡°Nothing¡­¡± Anastasia responded, preventing herself from laughter.


    ¡°Welcome, David. I would like you to meet our three new recruits.¡±


    The large man glanced at the bottle on the ground, he then pointed towards them with his mechanical arm, ¡°This doesn¡¯t seem like nothing. So I take it you three are Nero, Grant¡ª¡±


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m Nero¡ª¡±


    A chair slammed against the table as Grant sprang away from them. All of them turned their attention to the brown-haired man, who had been standing in the distance, as if ready for battle. His sharp stare was a mix of fear, hostility and confusion that locked onto David.


    ¡°Grant?¡± Isabelle muttered.


    ¡°Hm? What¡¯s wrong, you¡¯re leaking out bloodlust.¡± David.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡­ sorry¡­¡± Grant mumbled out as he quietly sat back down, hoping they would not pay attention.


    ¡°Heeeehh¡­¡± Felix whimpered out as liquids leaked out of his mouth.


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t seem like it was nothing, but I¡¯ll let it slide. For now¡­¡± David picked up the bottle beside the out cold man. ¡°This bottle¡­ it¡¯s over eighty percent.¡±


    ¡°And he did it in one sitting. I¡¯m impressed. Even I couldn¡¯t do that.¡±


    David¡¯s eyebrows furrowed, ¡°Why would you make him do this?¡±


    ¡°I just¡­ wanted to see how far he would go¡­ the crazy bastard went all the way.¡± She couldn¡¯t help herself from giggling.


    ¡°I had an idea, what if we picked him up instead of leaving him on the floor?¡± Isabelle interjected in a scolding voice.


    ¡°Right, right.¡± Anastasia started going back to her cold exterior.


    As the table was prepared, Felix sat in between David and Isabelle, still out cold. There was a full course meal prepared for all of them, and a pie next to David.


    There was a thick sense of discomfort in the air as they ate. Anastasia was quiet as she faced Nero, and so was Grant as he was catching sharp glances at David.


    ¡°So how about introductions, my name is Isabelle Castella, it¡¯s nice to meet you um¡­¡± Isabelle attempted to break the silence and faced the large man with the metal arm.


    ¡°David Soldier. Feel free to call me Dave if you like.¡± The large man introduced himself.


    ¡°Alright, and um miss¡­¡±


    ¡°Anastasia Frost.¡± The short, red-haired woman responded.


    ¡°If the glowing orange eyes didn¡¯t give it away already, these are your seniors, and your trainers.¡± Chief stated.


    ¡°Trainers?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right. David will train you three, while, as per someone¡¯s request,¡± Chief glared at Isabelle ¡°Felix will be taught by Anya, and you will be relocating to a training facility. Your training starts today.¡±


    ~

 Psychic Training Arc part 1

    Chapter 20


    Psychic Training part 1


    Two groups were stationed in separate training rooms inside a facility located near to the Golden Lion¡¯s headquarters.


    In one room was Felix and Anastasia, both of whom were separated by a small wooden table with a rifle standing upon it.


    ¡°What about Marie?¡± Asked the blue-eyed young man.


    ¡°According to research, stage one''s don''t possess any aura.¡± Anastasia¡¯s brow curled as she responded in a skeptical manner, ¡°So she isn¡¯t going to do this training.¡±


    Felix had a curious expression upon hearing those words as he recollected their sparring match. ¡°I see¡­¡± He replied dejectedly.


    ¡°The Chief thought that it might be better that I would be the one to teach you.¡± The red-haired woman explained as she placed her own twin guns on the table, ¡°So, where do we begin?¡±


    In another room stood David, and in front of him were the three red-eyed espers. Nero, Isabelle, and Grant. He collected wooden staffs and rubber knives and other objects.


    ¡°I¡¯m David Soldier.¡± The large man with the mechanical arm spoke, ¡°I will be the one teaching you how to use your powers. I haven¡¯t had the time to read your files, so introduce yourselves.¡±


    ¡°Nero Miles.¡± The blond young man with sharp eyes nodded.


    ¡°My name¡¯s Isabelle Castella, sir.¡± The silver-haired woman raised her hand like a student, ¡°There was supposed to be four of us, may I ask about the other girl? Kaitlin?¡±


    ¡°The one with the frizzy hair, correct? Last I heard, she was still in the hospital. All they told me was that she was in critical condition.¡±


    ¡°O-oh¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ Grant Jaeger.¡± The brown-haired, pony-tailed man responded as he stared intently at David¡¯s face. He then looked around and asked, ¡°So why isn¡¯t Blue Phantom with us?¡±


    ¡°Thanks to this one, Felix is training with Anastasia¡­¡± David placed his hand on Isabelle¡¯s head.


    Nero¡¯s eyebrow raised.


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡± Grant asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the best teacher for this?¡±


    David paused for a moment, spending the awkward silence searching for the right words. ¡°Personal reasons.¡±


    Isabelle lowered her head, which Grant and Nero both noticed.


    If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    The sudden clatter of wooden items startled the three, ¡°I¡¯m sure the professors told you all they know. You three have been espers for six months, correct?¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡± The red-eyed trio answered.


    ¡°Let¡¯s start with the basics. We are not simply human anymore. Not the way we used to be. Officially speaking, we are referred to as ¡°Homo Lucerna¡±, those who will bring light to this world. Though as of recently, Professor Tetsuya has gradually been shifting to ¡°Espers¡± for short.¡± David explained.


    While Nero had an indifferent expression, Both Grant and Isabelle were more bothered by the statement. Grant¡¯s eyebrows furrowed, while Isabelle scratched her arm upon hearing those words, the two were clearly bothered by the sentiment of no longer being simply human.


    ¡°As a new breed of humanity, we have many gifts that are far and beyond normal people. But our defining trait is our telekinesis, the ability to control energy and bend objects to our will with the use of Zeta radiation, or aura.¡±


    In the other room, Anastasia disassembled the rifle as she explained, removing each piece, ¡°Something you have to understand is that aura itself is more than just telekinesis. It¡¯s an extension of your senses. Personally, I¡¯d call it a projection of your soul. It¡¯s not a weapon, at least not until you make it one.¡±


    ¡°So I need to be able to release more of it soon.¡± The blue-eyed boy responded.


    ¡°First you learn how to even use your power before you even think about drawing out more.¡± She said, tapping his head the rifle¡¯s barrel.


    David placed a metal sheet beneath his arm, ¡°And we are limited by two factors: By the amount of the aforementioned aura that we possess, and the limits of our psyche. Controlling energy is controlling movement, and how it¡¯s expressed differently between each user, often shaped by your psychological hang-ups.¡±


    A fiery haze formed around his arm. Untouchable, intangible, but dense and fiery. A visible contradiction between reality and power.


    It flowed out of him like water and enveloped the metal sheet and was pulled upward from the floor. The three covered their ears as they watched the sheet bend and fold with an ear-piercing creak, wrapping itself around David¡¯s left arm. ¡°For me, it works like armor.¡±


    Anastasia elaborated, ¡°Aura is the power to stop, then to attract and repel. Take it one step further and you can stretch and mold... and change. The ability to impose your will in the real world, we call it psychic energy.¡±


    The red-haired woman placed her palm above the weapon, and it shined with an orange glow, and it began seamlessly putting itself together.


    ¡°You need to understand what it is, inside and out. Its nature, form and its construction, like memorizing the pieces of a puzzle.¡±


    She then disassembled the rifle once more as she continued, ¡°You need to know something inside and out to use this effectively. You will need to keep repeating it until¡­¡± With a flick of her wrist, the form reassembled itself in under five seconds.


    David handed the three red-eyed espers a staff and a rubber knife, and remarked, ¡°It isn¡¯t a weapon. It¡¯s a tool. All of you are stage three, so you should theoretically possess same amount of aura.¡±


    With a metallic screech, the metal sheet bent and folded, molding itself to the shape of his arm like armor.


    ¡°But what about when it comes to drawing out the power?¡± Grant asked David.


    Anastasia took in a deep breath, followed by a faint, orange glow manifesting from her body, ¡°Drawing it out varies differently from between me and David. For me, drawing it out is a lot like breathing.¡±


    Felix nodded.


    David continued with his lecture, ¡°But if there¡¯s one sure fire way to release it, then imagining it is the easiest way. Don¡¯t just feel it. Imagine it. The power comes from the brain, so you have to project it into the real world. It¡¯s a slow process, so keep doing it until it¡¯s as natural as breathing.¡±


    ¡°What do we call this power we possess?¡± Nero asked.


    ¡°We simply call it psychic power.¡± The iron-armed man answered.


    ¡°I see.¡± He sighed dejectedly, as if hoping for something more.


    ¡°Now, then, show me what you all can do.¡± Their mentor instructed.


    ~

 Psychic Training part 2

    ¡°Now, then, show me what you all can do.¡± Their mentor instructed.


    Nero stood and held up a wooden staff like a sword, he felt a tingly sensation from his arms as red light flowed through the pathways of his nervous system.


    ¡°I¡¯ve always needed direct contact with objects before I could apply my aura on them.¡± He explained as a crimson red haze materialized out of his hands and into the staff, causing it to shake rapidly.


    ¡°Understandable. The aura starts from the brain, then it flows through the body as heat, after which you extend it outside of yourself, which transforms into the psychic power.¡± David demonstrated as the psychic flames flowed out of his palm.


    ¡°And I always found it a little difficult¡­¡± The wooden staff kept shaking faster and faster, unable to handle the red energy until suddenly, it burst. ¡°¡­to control.¡±


    Isabelle and Grant reflexively hid behind their arms to protect themselves from the scattering wood shards, while David stood with arms crossed, undaunted and immovable while the wooden chunks floated midair, caught in his orange aura.


    ¡°The way you use your aura is volatile. If too much aura is released from all directions at once, the pressure will crush whatever you¡¯re trying to control. You need to learn how to fine tune it. Until then, I suggest using a harder material for it.¡± David replied.


    ¡°¡­ Sadly, I¡¯ve found that even swords break.¡± Nero lamented.


    Isabelle was up next, and the others were waiting on her display, ¡°Actually, I¡¯d rather not.¡± She nervously commented.


    ¡°Show us.¡± The iron-armed man insisted.


    ¡°If you say so.¡± Strings of red lightning formed around her body as a vicious flame began to form around her, the entire room began to creak.


    Nero stood still and watched, while Grant took a step back, pushed away by the ferocity of her crimson crystalline flames.


    The aura around her began to spiral like a torrent around her body, but before the psychic structure could be completed, David spoke, ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡±


    The red flames that radiated throughout the room were reduced to lingering embers on Isabelle¡¯s body.


    ¡°I see.¡± The realization had set in as David focused on her white hair, ¡°It¡¯s strange to believe that you¡¯re already fully awakened. The way that you are now, you¡¯re even stronger than Felix. At least, for the moment.¡±


    ¡°Ah, is that so? Yeah¡­ stronger than¡­ the strongest esper¡­ yeah¡­¡± With an awkward laughter, the silver-haired woman scratched the back of her head. Feeling a weight drop on her shoulders, she did not know how to respond to that heavy statement.


    That remark caught the attention of her two red-eyed colleagues. Expressions of envy from Nero and of curiosity from Grant.


    ¡°Try this.¡± He placed a rubber knife in her hand, ¡°Imagine that your body is like a dam, and the water is your aura. For now, don¡¯t think about how it works, just let it flow out of your arms and channel it into this knife.¡±


    The silver-haired girl nodded and closed her eyes. A mental image has been sketched into the silver-haired girl¡¯s mind. She breathed in, and it felt like a gust of wind brushed against the waves within the dam.


    She felt the spaces in her own mind widening as the concrete walls opened.


    In her mind, the water rushed out.


    Isabelle opened her crimson eyes and watched as a powerful stream red light endlessly flowed out through the rubber knife, like the pressure from a flame thrower.


    ¡°It worked?¡± She said in a stunned, surprised manner, ¡°It worked! I did it!¡± She hopped excitedly, ¡°David I¡ª!¡±


    She glanced over to the side and saw the three men standing with startled faces, avoiding the torrent of psychic fire she was releasing.


    ¡°What?¡± She asked as her energy diminished into a small thin light.


    ¡°Yeah.¡± David gulped, ¡°You did it.¡±


    The orange-haired mentor was surprised by this development.


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    Incredible. For her to immediately know what she was doing after such a small suggestion. Who is this girl?


    David thought to himself, he then looked over to the last of the red-eyed trio and said, ¡°Grant, you¡¯re up.¡±


    ¡°I have to follow up to that?¡± Grant nervously laughed.


    ¡°Good luck.¡± Nero snidely responded.


    The brown-haired man clutched the rubber knife. The veins in his arms started to glow and grow hot, before the energy exited out his pores, and started to spark outside his body, ¡°It¡¯s difficult. I haven¡¯t been able to draw it out very easily.¡±


    Isabelle and Nero shielded their faces against the flickers and flares.


    Coated in his orange aura, David was protected from the crimson fire, ¡°Try breathing slowly, think about it flowing out of your mind, then exerting it out from your body. Or perhaps you could imagine how it should go, the same way Isabelle did.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± Grant grabbed one of the rubber knives and concentrated on a single point on the target, only to create streams of energy that violently started to sear across his arm.


    A surge of orange, fire-like aura then flushed it away from his arm, like a stream of water extinguishing a flame.


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ having trouble.¡± Grant remarked as he looked at his hand, the crimson cracks in his flash started to mend back together.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be here to help you until you get it.¡± David placed his metal arm on Grant¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°I get how it works. I¡¯ve just never been able to use it before.¡± Felix uttered as he looked at his red-haired mentor.


    Anastasia then inquired, ¡°Your report said that you were able to draw it out when you were trying to escape, correct? You used your psychic energy to increase your speed and called it Blue Mode?¡±


    ¡°Marie¡¯s the only one who calls it that. But yeah, that¡¯s right.¡± Felix nodded.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s no longer a mode now that it¡¯s permanently active. Anyways, it can also be used to speed up the body by making oneself into a projectile. You don¡¯t need to build up momentum, but that just makes it impossible to control, so I advise against doing that.¡± She responded with a raised finger.


    ¡°Um¡­¡±


    ¡°You haven¡¯t tried it before, have you?¡±


    ¡°When I was chasing Lewis Shaw for the first time¡­¡± He recollected his time at the port, when he slammed against the metal vessels in a violent fit of rage, ¡°It¡¯s like I had no control of my body, that I was just being tossed around.¡±


    ¡°Now you know not to do that.¡± She sighed, ¡°Moving on, it¡¯s possible that you developed a form of enhanced speed in a state of panic. I think it¡¯s best if we try to draw it out again.¡± The short, red-haired woman explained as she pointed her rifle at Felix¡¯s face. ¡°You are to stand there and I will fire at you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s¡ª!¡± BANG! A deafening noise shot right beside his ear.


    ¡°Go.¡±


    ¡°¡­ okay.¡± He let out a crestfallen response, knowing he was not allowed to argue.


    ¡°We will try to reenact what first triggered your aura. Are you ready?¡± She ordered and raised her rifle.


    ¡°No?¡±


    Felix stood near the wall. He swallowed as he watched the rifle pointed straight at his head. He placed his hands in front of him, hoping he would be able to do as she says.


    The first round was shot.


    ¡°ARGK!¡± He reflexively pulled back his hand and clutched it after the rubber bullet struck it.


    The next round fired.


    ¡°Ow, ouch! W¡ªwait!¡±


    One, after the other, Felix was pushed further and further back as almost each of the rubber bullets narrowly struck him.


    ¡°Good reflexes. You were taught to watch where the gun was pointed then avoid accordingly before your enemy could fire, correct?¡± Anastasia explained without letting an inch of her shooting interval.


    ¡°Wait, please, just! Ow!¡±


    He yelled as he whipped away the next projectile and it struck the ceiling.


    The ceiling split apart as sets of wooden planks descended from it. The three watched in awe as the area transformed itself, and turned itself into a makeshift shooting range.


    ¡°This facility was designed with us in mind, and for people who have yet to become espers. As with any skill, you learn through repetition. Throw these continuously until you break through each of these targets ten times.¡± David handed each of them a metal bowl full of ball bearings.


    The three of them turned towards the floating planks, held up only by a single rope.


    ¡°But that¡¯s¡­ like an inch of wood?¡± Isabelle squeaked.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± David responded nonchalantly.


    Nero picked up the first metal marble and rolled it between his fingers. He pulled back his arm with eyes focused on the target. With a loud wooden thud, the plank target swung upwards as it was struck by the metal ball.


    Both Isabelle and Grant then took a marble each from their bowl and struck the wooden plank, only for it to fling upward as it struck, and swing back down.


    Isabelle and Grant both looked at David with confused expressions.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think we should start with something more¡­ basic?¡± Isabelle added.


    ¡°This is the basics. You have to break through the first one that¡¯s five meters. Then the next one that¡¯s eight meters. Then the last one in ten meters.¡±


    ¡°How about something simpler? Like learning to maintain our aura? Drawing out aura is already a challenge as it is.¡± Grant responded.


    ¡°First you need to learn how to use your aura before you can maintain it. Understand the principles of how it works.¡±


    Nero picked up another and threw it in a pitcher¡¯s throw, it was followed by another loud thud. The wooden plank was swung even further back than before.


    Grant followed up, ¡°Even if we hit it, there¡¯s no way we can break through it. It¡¯s just gonna swing up¡ª¡±


    With a sharp, loud thud, their attention was drawn first wooden target. It swung back and forth, and as it steadied, they saw the puncture that Nero made in the middle of it.


    ¡°¡ªwards.¡±


    Nero grinned at his two red-eyed companions.


    ¡°Show off.¡± The brown-haired man grunted and picked up one of the metal marbles, acting casually as he took on Nero¡¯s challenge.


    ¡°These two¡­¡± The silver-haired woman blurted out.


    ¡°You need to overcome your own weakness and shortcomings. The only keeping you from using your full potential is yourselves.¡±


    Isabelle sighed in a resigned manner as she followed their lead. She picked up one of the marbles, inspected it for a few seconds, then looked at the targets for a clear shot.


    She pulled back her arm, and swung.


    ¡ª Bang!


    ~

 Psychic Training part 3

    ¡ª Bang!


    Anastasia lowered her gun and walked up to Felix who was on the floor, ¡°Perhaps this isn¡¯t the best way.¡±


    Felix, who tried to communicate with ragged breaths, whimpered in agreement. ¡°Mh-hmm.¡±


    Nero broke his seventh hole through his target, while Grant was stuck waiting for his target to stop swinging back and forth.


    Isabelle¡¯s face drenched in sweat as she¡¯s made several small dents on her target. She gritted her teeth and hurled the small metal ball in her hand. With a crisp, wooden burst, she managed to pierce the first hole. She looked to the rest of them with lips widened with a vibrant smile.


    Their mentor, David gave an approving nod and while Nero smiled back slightly, Grant watched in silent envy before grabbing another ball.


    David walked out the door.


    A large rubber tire wrapped in an orange glow rolled into the room, along with Anastasia.


    ¡°Maybe we should start simpler. I think stopping might be too advanced for you for now. For now, pushing is the easiest task. You have one hour to move this only with your power.¡±


    She placed a white gun against the tire, one that was identical to Felix¡¯s ¡®Agony¡¯, and as she pulled the trigger, a wave of orange energy burst from the gun and flung away the tire, ¡°You just need some aura to have it start rolling.¡±


    ¡°But I can¡¯t draw out my aura at will.¡± Felix replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s why we¡¯re training, so you can use it on command.¡± She said as she knocked him on the head, ¡°Aura acts like a fluid that stretches depending on how much you emit. According to the professors, it¡¯s said to start from the brain, so think about letting it flow from your head to the object.¡± She explained as she raised up her hand in a fighting stance.


    ¡°To the object¡­¡± He raised his arm towards the tire while Anastasia watched.


    She opened her lips, ¡°You know, you don¡¯t actually need to move to use your powers. It just helps you visualize what you want your power to do.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    Nero sat at the side, rolling the marble in his fingers. Almost done with the task, with nine punctures through, which almost broke the plank in half.


    Isabelle, who was gasping for air, was almost done.


    There were seven holes on her target. She raised her hand and the marble started to glow with spikes of light streaming between her fingers.


    With a weighty swing, the marble spun close to the ground, and then quickly curved upward, changing its course.


    The plank snapped in half.


    As it made a hollow, wooden rattle, Isabelle grinned widely, ¡°It worked¡­ I did it!¡±


    ¡°Experimenting, huh?¡± Nero sneered.


    Grant¡¯s face narrowed with frustration, with only four holes in his target so far.


    ¡°It¡¯s gotten late, you can go take a rest. Try again tomorrow.¡± David told the two of them.


    ¡°Um, wait, let me just do the last¡ª¡± Before Nero could complete her sentence, a loud thud caught their attention.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ rest would be nice.¡± Grant huffed out as he punctured his fifth hole. There was a bitterness in his tone.


    While Grant walked to the side and wiped his face with a towel, Isabelle looked at David and asked. ¡°Actually, do you have a kitchen?¡±


    ¡°Turn left by the end of the hall.¡± David answered.


    ¡°Right, thanks.¡±


    Felix stood there in front of the tire waiting for the energy to flow out. From his palm released a small blue wisp.


    ¡°You should have been able to push it forward by now.¡± Anastasia remarked from her chair, watching a show on her phone.


    ¡°I know that.¡± Felix responded, clearly frustrated at himself. He pressed his arms against the floor and flung himself back up. ¡°Maybe I could use a little more instruction.¡±


    She got up from her chair and walked towards him, ¡°Psychic energy starts from the head, then flows throughout the body, enhancing it, making it faster and stronger. After that it¡¯s exerted out of the body and enhances or moves things.¡±


    She placed her palm against the wheel, and with a sudden burst of orange haze, the wheel suddenly started to roll until it slammed against the wall.


    ¡°Me, David, and your sister all experience aura differently. Mostly instinctually. I can tell you how it works, but I can¡¯t teach you how to use it. Just take a deep breath and apply your will.¡±


    ¡°Sigh, right.¡±


    Felix took a deep breath and pulled back his arm. He felt tingly a sensation as a blue glow passed through the tunnels of his veins. And as he struck his fist, his psychic energy formed and manifested into his hands.


    ¡°It worked!¡± He smiled and looked at her excitedly.


    She nodded calmly, expecting him to continue.


    ¡°Come on¡­ push!¡± The energy in his fist was steadily growing larger, but would not move the way he wanted. It simply grew larger and more unstable.


    ¡°Ah¡ª hah! What do I do?¡± He blurted out nervously as he looked at Anastasia, but before she could answer, the energy burst in all directions and tossed him back.


    This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    But finally, the tire moved forward ever so slightly, before turning to the side and plopping down with a loud thud.


    ¡°Progress.¡± Anastasia looked at him with a startled expression, ¡°That¡¯s enough. Get some rest.¡±


    Felix got back up, gasping, ¡°But I¡¯ve¡­ barely done anything...¡±


    ¡°No point in struggling. Come back here tomorrow, we¡¯re done for today.¡±


    A flow of water streamed out of the sink as Grant washed his face. His gaze cast down, and the red in his eyes reflecting in the droplets. As he got up to dry his face, he took a step back, startled as he saw David in front of him.


    ¡°Grant. A moment.¡± David gestured for the brown-haired man to come closer.


    ¡°Hm? What is it?¡±


    ¡°Two things.¡±


    ¡°First. Answer honestly, why did you react when you saw my face?¡±


    Grant looked to the side and muttered, ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡±


    ¡°If it were nothing, you wouldn¡¯t have slammed the table when you first saw me.¡±


    Grant flattened his lips, unable to look at David, ¡°¡­it¡¯s just¡­ you look a lot like someone I used to know.¡±


    David¡¯s lips parted, as if eagerly wanting to ask something, but shut and opened again, only to say something else. ¡°Was he¡­ someone important to you?¡±


    ¡°¡­He was.¡± The red-eyed man mumbled out.


    ¡°Then maybe that¡¯s why you¡¯re having so much trouble.¡±


    ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°If it¡¯s grief that you¡¯re dealing with, you have to let go of it.¡±


    ¡°What are you talking about?¡±


    ¡°The thing that¡¯s keeping you from releasing your aura is likely your grief. It¡¯s blocking the flow of aura from your mind to the rest of your body.¡±


    Isabelle sat in the kitchen, as she stirred the spoon in the coffee, she recalled the moment just before the training began.


    In the office of the chief¡¯s office where she had just entered, a deep, gravelly voice called out to her.


    ¡°Isabelle Castella, correct?¡± A tall, muscular man stood before her, dressed in a white suit and a red and gold overcoat. His body blocked half the windows behind Chief Vivian¡¯s desk, where she sat silently.


    ¡°Y-yes, sir¡­ um.¡±


    The man sat down on the black sofa in the middle of the room, ¡°Sullivan Osbourne. CEO of the Golden Lion and Head Director of the twelve agencies. Please, take a seat.¡± He gestured toward the seat right in front of him.


    ¡°Ah o-okay.¡±


    ¡°Such magnificent red eyes.¡± He commented. One of his eyes were wide open, while the other was closed with two scars running across it.


    Not only did his appearance intimidate her, but also his voice and position, there was weight in all of who he was. ¡°Would you like some coffee or tea?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m good, sir.¡±


    ¡°Shame, this tea was imported all the way from India.¡± He lamented as he poured himself a cup and added a spoonful of sugar, ¡°Then let me cut to the chase. For the past three years, Felix refused to learn under the tutelage of David, he even went so far as to say that he couldn¡¯t muster out any aura yet and instead occupied himself with physical training.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The Director stirred the spoon in his teacup and spoke, ¡°I would like to say that he was being selfish and stubborn. The problem is, he was right. and Professor Tetsuya agreed with his decision to wait until he developed his powers, because there would be no point in him learning how to control it.¡±


    Isabelle quietly nodded, ¡°Is that so...¡±


    ¡°Now that he has developed his powers, we were simply waiting for David to finish up his duties so he could teach Felix.¡±


    ¡°Duties, sir?¡±


    ¡°Being rank one also comes with a lot of responsibilities, you see.¡±


    ¡°I see, so then.¡±


    ¡°You are the one who suggested that he should wait to be taught by someone else, no?¡±


    Isabelle tightened her fists on her lap as she tilted her head down, ¡°Sir, it¡¯s only been a few months since I became an esper.¡±


    ¡°And look at how far you¡¯ve come.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ not very far, sir.¡±


    ¡°You are the first of your batch to have your hair turn white hair. And in such a short amount of time. It is, in fact, quite far.¡± He took a sip of his tea.


    ¡°I would tell you how I did it, sir, but¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m aware. The maturation of espers is correlated with their experiences, and people grow in different ways, so there¡¯s really no point in asking that question.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± She twiddled her fingers.


    ¡°I think you misunderstand me. I am not asking you to teach Felix. You see, the only other person in the world that¡¯s able to teach him has also finished up her mission, and has returned.¡±


    ¡°Who?¡±


    ¡°The third rank agent, Anastasia Frost.¡± The Chief answered.


    ¡°So then, that means my request was accepted?¡±


    ¡°The decision to have Anastasia teach Felix isn¡¯t done on behalf of your request. It was simply the most rational choice to do so. Felix would likely not progress very well if he were taught by David.¡± The Director answered.


    Isabelle looked up, ¡°Then¡­ why was I called here, sir?¡±


    ¡°I understand that you are compassionate and kind. Therefore, I would like to ask you to watch over Felix as he grows, and for you to list down and report to us how you see him progress.¡±


    ¡°But¡­ wouldn¡¯t it be better if the teacher, Anastasia, did that?¡±


    ¡°No¡­ Anastasia isn¡¯t enough. But you¡­ I want you to help him as his equal, or¡­ if the worst were to ever occur, stop him.¡±


    ¡°You want me¡­ to stop the strongest esper?¡± The silver-haired girl felt a heavy weight suddenly drop on her shoulders.


    ¡°You are the strongest esper.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ stronger than the strongest esper?¡± She scoffed.


    ¡°Yes. At least for the moment, with the way you are now, and the way Felix is. Right now, I¡¯m simply asking you to watch over him. Think of it as a personal request.¡±


    ¡°And¡­ how long do I have to do this? How long until he becomes¡­ stronger than I am¡­ to the point where I can no longer stop him.¡±


    ¡°I cannot say for certain. My best guess? Until half of his hair turns white. By then, it¡¯s doubtful anyone can stop him.¡±


    ¡°I um¡­¡± She gulped, ¡°¡­I understand, sir.¡±


    ¡°One last thing. You are to deliver this letter to your commander at Frontier Industries. Tell them that I have accepted your temporary transfer to the Golden Lion.¡±


    As he said those words, the Chief handed a letter to her.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± She answered as she took the letter.


    ¡°I expect great things from you, Isabelle Castella.¡± He then paused to take a sip of tea, ¡°Dismissed.¡±


    The memory of that discussion made Isabelle let out a sigh.


    She stopped stirring the coffee as another person walked into the kitchen. Her face slowly drooped down from her hands until it reached the table.


    ¡°Isabelle?¡± Felix greeted as he entered the room.


    ¡°Huh? Oh, h-hey there. What¡¯s up?¡± She responded in a tired voice.


    ¡°I just came here to make some coffee.¡± He walked over to the counter, ¡°Is something bothering you?¡±


    ¡°Oh, um¡­ nothing really.¡±


    ¡°Then, do you mind if I join you?¡± Felix smiled as he lifted up a glass jar in each hand.


    ¡°No, go ahead. Cream and sugar? I didn¡¯t think you would like it sweet.¡±


    Felix grinned widely in response.


    ¡°So, how was training?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Hard¡­ I pushed a wheel for a little while, you?¡±


    ¡°I broke holes into a plank of wood.¡±


    There was a brief pause before the two broke out with a soft, awkward laughter.


    Back in the training room, Anastasia was curled up in a ball as she watched from her phone, snickering to herself. But there was a knock on the door.


    ¡°Director?¡± The red-haired woman quickly got up and saluted white-haired man.


    ¡°Anya, where is Felix?¡± Director Sullivan asked from the door.


    ¡°He was going to make some coffee, so I told him we should just continue tomorrow. I¡¯m surprised you came all the way to this facility, Director.¡±


    ¡°I wanted to see your progress with my own eyes.¡±


    ¡°Not much progress, it¡¯s only been a day. Right now, I¡¯m still trying to get him to draw out his energy. David and the others should be doing the same.¡±


    ¡°What do you think of him so far?¡±


    ¡°He has a lot of aura, but that¡¯s about it. He can¡¯t control it properly yet.¡±


    ¡°That is unfortunate, but understandable.¡±


    ¡°I was in Russia alone for four years, now I¡¯m on babysitting duty. Has he really been an esper for seven years?¡± Anastasia murmured as she looked away.


    ¡°Anya. He is the only stage four we have so far. The power he possesses is more than the rest of you combined, so it¡¯s only natural for him to have difficulty getting it under control.¡±


    ¡°¡­Right¡­¡±


    ¡°That being said, I¡¯m relying on you to bring out his full potential, do you understand?¡± The Director asked sternly before shutting the door.


    ¡°Yes sir.¡± She nodded, as if she had a say in the matter.


    The door shut, and Anastasia was left standing alone.


    ~

 Psychic Training part 4

    Chapter 21


    Psychic Training part 2


    Thud after thud, the repeating sound of cracking and breaking echoed in the training room. Both Isabelle and Nero sat in the corner of the room, wiping their faces with towels while waiting for Grant to finish his set.


    After two consecutive breakthroughs, Grant smiled. He was ready to strike the last one, but as he was about to throw the metal marble in his hand, a sudden crash caught all of their attention.


    In the other training room of the facility, Felix gasped before collapsing to his knees. Beads of sweat poured down his cheek. His tired eyes downcast as he took in deep heavy breaths.


    ¡°Good job.¡± Anastasia spoke in a dry manner, ¡°You¡¯ve learned the basics of pushing.¡±


    ¡°I take it¡­ huff¡­ that the next step¡­ is to learn pulling?¡± Felix replied with weighty breaths.


    ¡°No. You still need to continue drawing it out.¡± She replied as she picked up the tire with one hand and rolled it back towards him. ¡°Seven more times.¡±


    Felix pushed himself back up with his hand.


    With a thud, Grant saw through the hole the wooden plank. The tenth one he had completed on that day.


    ¡°Yes!¡± He yelled out before looking back to the other two. Nero stared with a subtle smirk while Isabelle smiled widely, happy for him.


    David walked up to the three with a sliced pie in his hand, ¡°Good job. All of you, line up.¡±


    The three stood up side by side one another in front of David.


    ¡°You¡¯ve all progressed decently in the past week. Isabelle, you¡¯re quick to the uptake and have a good handle on your aura. You get to move along. Give the other two some advice.¡± David instructed as he placed a slice of pie in Isabelle¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Isabelle replied with an awkward expression.


    ¡°Grant, your improvement wasn¡¯t as fast as the other two, but your progress was clear. You are now much better than when you first started. You¡¯re moving on to the next task, but you¡¯re still going to have to practice this one until you¡¯ve got it. Understood?¡±  He said as he handed him a slice of pie.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Grant responded, rejecting the apple pie with furrowed eyebrows, to which David raised his own with curiosity.


    ¡°Nero, even though you¡¯re always quick to finish, you always use too much energy. Remember that your aura is limited. You¡¯re moving on to the next step, but keep that in mind.¡± He explained as he put a slice of pie in Nero¡¯s hand.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Nero replied, taking a bite out of the pie.


    ¡°As for your next task.¡± David then pressed on a remote, and the ground started to rumble.


    The three watched as the floor split in half, and large slabs of metal rose diagonally from underground. From the slabs rose wooden dummies, each with a small gap in the center. The area looked significantly different from how it was less than thirty seconds ago.


    ¡°You¡¯ve all done target practice during your military training, correct?¡±


    ¡°Yes sir¡­¡± Isabelle answered.


    ¡°Now you¡¯re going to practice to control. Your task is to shoot the metal marble into the center of the target.¡± David picked up one of the ball bearings. As it became enveloped in his orange energy, he struck. The metal ball spiraled up then down, until it shot through the center of the small hole on the wall.


    ¡°Just shoot it straight into the hole while avoiding damaging the dummies. Like your previous task, you have to shoot it ten times. Finish this assignment by the end of today.¡±Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Both Grant and Isabelle responded sternly.


    ¡°Yethfir.¡± Nero answered with a mouth full of pie.


    Anastasia watched while Felix lifted the wheel and once again. A current ran through his body, and ember-like particles sprung from his fingertips, but faded just as it appeared.


    ¡°Again.¡± Anastasia spoke sternly.


    Unable to respond, all Felix could do was pant in exhaustion.


    ¡°You¡¯re on your last one.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gotten¡­ really hard¡­ to draw out.¡± He huffed out.


    ¡°Sigh, I hate to do this, but imagine Lewis Shaw¡¯s smug face throwing garbage at you.¡±


    Felix¡¯s face contorted with rage. Suddenly, from his palm, a crystalline blue flame burst out, flinging the wheel upward and crashing against the wall.


    ¡°¡­ I¡¯m impressed.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Felix mumbled out as the glow around his body had yet to fade.


    ¡°Remember what I said, aura is a reflection of you. As such, it spikes with your emotions. That being said, frustration without any clear goal in mind won¡¯t get you anywhere.¡±


    ¡°Right. So then, what¡¯s next? Pulling?¡± Felix huffed out.


    ¡°Not yet. Pulling is still far too difficult. The next step is stopping.¡± Anastasia pulled out her rifle once more.


    Felix took a step back. ¡°Stopping¡­ bullets?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong? You did it before, didn¡¯t you? When you protected Obsidian¡¯s heiress?¡± Anastasia asked as she pointed her rifle in front of him.


    ¡°Y-yes¡­¡± He gulped.


    ¡°What was going through your mind when you did it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m¡­ I¡¯m not sure. I did it reflexively, but I think it was because I wanted to protect her.¡±


    ¡°I see. Strong feelings such as those can be channeled like that. But we can¡¯t replicate those conditions as we are now.¡±


    ¡°Phew¡­¡± Felix let out a relieved sigh.


    ¡°You will stop each one with your aura, understood?¡±


    ¡°I um¡­ Wait, but¡­ if we need our aura to stop bullets¡­ then.¡± He recollected his battle against Harbinger; How Maria had been shot from behind, and the sensation of her warm blood sliding across his face. ¡°Can first stages do this? Stop bullets, I mean?¡±


    Anastasia tilted her and responded, ¡°I''ve heard Parthenos being able to do the same thing, so it should be possible.¡±


    ¡°¡­the seventh rank¡­ I see.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll look into it. There¡¯s something that doesn¡¯t add up with what we were told.¡±


    ¡°Alright, thanks.¡± He nodded.


    ¡°For now, you should think about protecting yourself.¡± She quickly brought the gun back up and pulled the trigger.


    With a loud thud, a piece of the dummy broke again.


    ¡°Nero, your output is too much. You¡¯re draining your aura too quickly without properly utilizing it. The goal isn¡¯t to break through, but to control.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. I¡¯m having difficulty trying to do just that.¡±


    ¡°Keep the fire of your rage in check. Keep the energy still and steady, you¡¯re in no rush.¡±


    Nero took in a deep breath and rolled the metal marble in his fingertips. As he threw it, the energy enveloping it was still, up until the very last moment where the red energies burst out on impact.


    ¡°Try again. Be more patient.¡±


    He took another ball bearing. He took another deep breath, his crimson eyes focused on the target, and he struck.


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s falling. Move it up.¡±


    Nero focused his gaze on the ball bearing. Suddenly, the red energy popped from beneath it and hurled it upward. With a sharp thud, it struck slightly above the target.


    He let out a thick, exasperated breath from his throat.


    ¡°You understand, don¡¯t you? Once aura leaves the body, it becomes increasingly difficult to control the further it gets. Now, one more time.¡±


    He picked up another. It was a third attempt under David¡¯s watchful eyes.


    As he drew back his arm, David said, ¡°Concentrate.¡±


    He threw it once more. This time, as the ball bearing fell too low, the aura burst from beneath it. And it got thrusted upwards and close to the target, it burst one more time.


    It had burst straight through the hole. His first success in this task.


    ¡°It¡¯s not exactly how you¡¯re supposed to control it, but it¡¯s a compromise that works.¡± David explained with a nod. ¡°You¡¯ll still have to learn how to do it properly, but I¡¯ll let this one slide.¡±


    Nero looked over to the other two with a smile on his face.


    Grant, who had a focused expression on his face, noticed Nero¡¯s excited glee and gave a thumbs up. Nero also gave a thumbs up.


    ¡°First one down.¡± Nero clenched his hand.


    ¡°Third one down.¡± Grant smirked as he raised three fingers. ¡°Looks like I¡¯m ahead.¡±


    ¡°Not for long.¡±


    The two nodded at each other, but while they displayed their mutual support and rivalry, a buzzard noise came from the edge of the room next to the wall of the room. Isabelle was done with her first set.


    Their smiles turned to sour, envious frowns and they swiftly picked up their pace.


    Anastasia fired her rifle towards Felix at a consistent interval. Every time she fired, he quickly threw his hand and deflected the rubber bullets away. But despite the interval, he was still being overwhelmed and pushed back.


    A consistent tingle struck against his right hand until his fingers began to quiver and shake, he yelled ¡°Stop, come on, wait¡ª Stop!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right, you have to stop the bullets coming your way.¡±


    ¡°Wait¡­ stop, stop firing... wait¡­ stop¡­ firing¡­¡± Felix paused in thought, as he dropped to the floor.


    ¡°What?¡± Anastasia complied and lowered her rifle.


    ¡°Anastasia¡± He huffed ¡°Is it possible to stop¡­ a laser beam¡­with psychic power?¡± He asked as he pointed to the rubber bullet in his hands.


    ¡°Laser beam¡­is it like the one in your report?¡±


    ¡°¡­Mhm.¡± He nodded, looking at the right hand that he had once lost.


    ¡°You want to train to defend yourself from that?¡±


    ¡°¡­That¡¯s right.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know¡­ we¡¯ll have to figure out a way to simulate it without killing you. For now, let¡¯s take a break.¡± She declared as she walked out the door.


    ~

 Psychic Training part 5

    Isabelle got to the kitchen and found someone at the counter with a sandwich in their hand. A woman with dark brown hair and copper brown eyes, dressed in a caramel-colored sweater.


    ¡°Oh, h-hey there.¡± Isabelle greeted as she went to the fridge and grabbed a bottle from in it. ¡°Carol, right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, we saw each other about a week ago.¡± Carol replied as she swallowed the stuffing in her mouth ¡°And you¡¯re Isabelle Corona?¡±


    ¡°Isabelle Castella, actually¡­¡±


    Carol hit her chest, struggling to put down the sandwich, ¡°Right, s-sorry. I¡¯m bad with names.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s alright. Mind if I sit with you? I like having company.¡± Isabelle awkwardly asked as she gave her a bottle.


    Carol quickly downed half the bottle and let out a sharp, relieved breath, ¡°Ahh. Go ahead.¡±


    ¡°So... what are you doing in the Golden Lion?¡±


    ¡°Um... I came here to visit Felix.¡± There was a short pause before Carol smiled softly, twiddling her fingers.


    ¡°O-oh¡­ really?¡± Isabelle awkwardly replied with a soft chuckle.


    ¡°So, what about you, how¡¯s training coming along?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been¡­ challenging, but I¡¯ve been getting the hang of it. Huh¡ª?¡± She was cut off from her own thoughts as she realized that Carol started to play with her hair.


    ¡°Your hair looks white as snow; it looks really lovely.¡±


    ¡°Th-thank you. Are you thinking of going through the implementation?¡±


    ¡°Nah, I¡¯m just a little curious. How did it feel when you went through the process?¡±


    ¡°How did it¡­ feel?¡± She repeated.


    Isabelle¡¯s crimson eyes drift off as the memory resurges. The scene played out vividly in her head.


    Her hands and legs were bound to the table as it slowly descended. Three syringes were on the table, and that she had one more shot to go through.


    ¡°Here is the last one. This is what will turn you into an enhanced human.¡± One of the professors said to her, showing her a syringe full of prismatic fluid.


    ¡°There was a risk of dying, right? How much?¡± Isabelle huffed out as she looked over to the man. Her face drenched in sweat as she struggled to breathe.


    ¡°Since it¡¯s too late for you to turn back now... ninety five percent.¡±


    ¡°Ninety-five, huh?¡± She echoed.


    ¡°We¡¯ve already paid you the sum, so it¡¯s too late to change your mind now.¡±


    ¡°No. It¡¯s alright¡­ Go ahead.¡± Her expression was strangely calm, to the point of indifference.


    ¡°Oh? Then, for stage one¡­¡±


    She let out a deep exhale as she did her best to keep a composed exterior. Though she felt fear, there was a sense of relief. At least until her blood started to boil, sending waves of heat throughout her body, and making her scream at the top of her lungs.


    Carol watched as Isabelle opened and closed her own palm. The silver-haired woman then raised up one finger and lit it up with psychic power. With a blank expression, she slashed open her own hand using her enhanced finger like a knife.


    As her blood splattered on the table, the brown-haired woman nervously gulped, ¡°I-Isabelle.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I guess I¡¯m still alive, aren¡¯t I?¡± With a strained voice, her lips opened as she muttered to herself.


    ¡°Should¡­ I¡­ get a first aid kit?¡± Carol worriedly asked.


    ¡°Hm? No, it¡¯s fine. It¡¯s shallow, so it¡¯ll heal in a couple of hours.¡±


    She then tilted her head upwards, ¡°What were we talking about again? How it felt, right? I remember now. It felt like I was burned alive¡­ my body was destroyed from the inside out. All I could think about was regret, but... by the end of it, I think I remember¡­It felt like¡­ I was in a sea of stars.¡±


    ¡°A sea of stars?¡± She asked with intrigue, there was still a hint of concern in her voice as she couldn¡¯t look away from Isabelle¡¯s bleeding hand.


    Isabelle covered her forehead and spoke with a distant stare, ¡°I don¡¯t remember, it¡¯s so hazy, but¡­ it felt so peaceful. I¡¯m sorry, I don¡¯t know how to explain it.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ still, ninety-five percent¡­¡± Carol replied with a dim stare. ¡°Well, that¡¯s all in the past now. At least you survived, didn¡¯t you? Cheers to that.¡± she raised her bottle.


    ¡°... Right, cheers to the five percent survival rate.¡± Isabelle smiled and raised her own.


    As they chugged down their drinks, Carol immediately excused herself from the table, ¡°I¡¯ll just head to the bathroom real quick.¡±Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    ¡°Okay.¡± She replied with an awkward smile.


    ¡°I¡¯ll be quick.¡± Carol waved as she headed to the bathroom.


    Isabelle then looked at the blood on the counter and grabbed the tissues right next to her, wiping it off.


    The bathroom was only a few meters from the kitchen, but when she got to the door, it opened, and Maria walked out with lipstick smeared over her lower lip.


    ¡°H-hello¡ª ¡± She greeted the black-haired woman.


    ¡°I saw a spider.¡± Maria responded and quickly walked away without even turning to face her.


    As she left, Carol¡¯s eyes fixated on Maria¡¯s reddened hand, covered in scratches. Her eyes showed slight alarm as she got inside, and saw that the mirror above the sink had been shattered and stained in red.


    Carol then inspected the red-stains, confirming to herself that it was blood, and muttered to herself, ¡°There¡¯s something wrong with those two¡­¡±


    *


    In the lounge, both mentor and student sat watching television instead of training.


    ¡°Um¡­ what¡¯s this?¡± Felix asked while sitting next Anastasia on the small couch.


    ¡°You don¡¯t like wrestling? Would you rather watch boxing?¡± Anastasia replied.


    ¡°Personally, I¡¯d rather watch anime.¡± Nero replied as he parched his head on the sofa behind her.


    ¡°Y-yeah, me too.¡± Anastasia responded in a higher pitch, her cheeks suddenly turned beet red.


    Felix turned his head to look at the two agents behind him, ¡°What are you two doing here?¡±


    ¡°Same as you. We¡¯re on a break.¡± Nero replied.


    ¡°Damn, that supplex. Think you could pull off something like that?¡± Grant looked at Felix with a smile while pointing at the screen.


    Felix simply raised his eyebrow and replied, ¡°I¡¯ll go make some coffee¡­¡±


    ¡°Could you grab me a cold drink?¡± Nero asked as he took his seat.


    ¡°Me too.¡± Grant added as he gazed at Felix as he walked away.


    ¡°I¡¯d like some beer.¡± Anastasia added.


    ¡°Sigh, so this is what Murphy feels.¡± Felix blurted out on his way to the kitchen.


    As the two red-eyed men made themselves comfortable on the couch, Anastasia blurted out ¡°And what about that girl, Isabelle?¡±


    ¡°She went to the kitchen earlier, she should meet Felix there.¡± Nero answered.


    In the kitchen, Isabelle finished her drink. As she headed out the door, she was greeted by Felix, who was just about to enter.


    ¡°Oh hey, gotten better at throwing metal balls?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°I guess. Have you gotten better at pushing tires?¡± Isabelle replied.


    ¡°Heh¡­ so far, this is all I can do at the moment.¡± He answered as he pointed his finger to one of the bananas on the table.


    As a blue fire formed around his fingertips, he shot it out. Suddenly, the blue fire pierced through the banana and splattered everywhere.


    Isabelle reflexively defended herself, the fragmented pieces of banana floated midair, wrapped around the red energy in her hands. ¡°That was more¡­ ¡®exploding¡¯ than it ¡®pushing.¡¯¡± She blurted out in response, holding back her laughter.


    ¡°You¡¯re not wrong.¡± Felix sighed, wiping off the squashed banana on his face.


    ¡°What the¡ª?¡± Another voice spoke, walking into the kitchen.


    ¡°Oh, hey there. Fancy meeting you here.¡± Felix smiled as Carol entered the kitchen.


    ¡°What happened?¡± Carol replied as she quickened her pace as she walked towards him.


    ¡°I was just¡­ showing how much I improved, I guess.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t play with your food!¡± She scolded and pulled him by the collar, wiping off the splattered food on his face with a handkerchief.


    Felix¡¯s face turned slightly red, ¡°R-right.¡±


    As their eyes met, her stern expression quickly changed to a flustered one, ¡°S-sorry¡­ you just¡­ remind me of my younger brother.¡± She quickly glanced away with a pout on her lips.


    ¡°Right¡­¡± He scratched his cheek.


    Isabelle watched the scene unfolding in front of her, and could not help but think to herself;


    So does he like Maria or Carol? Who is he gonna end up with, exactly? Knowing Maria, she¡¯s not gonna play nice.


    An awkward laughter escaped her lips, and the two looked at her.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Felix asked.


    ¡°Ah, nothing, it¡¯s nothing.¡± Isabelle blurted out.


    ¡°So then, what exactly have you improved on?¡± Carol sighed and asked with her hands on her hips, looking up at him with a slightly annoyed look.


    ¡°I just¡­ tried to push, and used too much energy, and I guess I accidentally¡­ squashed it.¡±


    ¡°I see. So then that blue fire is the power of you enhanced humans?¡±


    ¡°The colors depend on the stage, and at the moment I¡¯m the only one who¡¯s blue. But that¡¯s basically the gist of it.¡± Felix answered.


    ¡°Sounds weird.¡± Carol replied.


    ¡°It basically just lets you move things with your mind.¡± Isabelle simplified the explanation, above her hand were the splattered pieces of banana suspended in the air, wrapped in the red haze.


    ¡°I see, so what¡¯s it like? How does it work? How does it feel? How do you use it?¡± Carol suddenly shot out a barrage of questions.


    ¡°I¡ª um¡­¡± Isabelle stuttered. ¡°It feels like steam. You¡¯re directing the heat in your body and letting it escape out of your body. Then once it does, it feels like the aura becomes your hand, and you guide whatever¡¯s in it.¡± She explained cleanly and concisely.


    ¡°And when it comes out of your body, it feels like you¡¯re in water¡­¡± Felix added.


    ¡°As for how to use it, well¡­ that¡¯s what we¡¯re still trying to figure out. Right now we¡¯re still using instinct. But you have to imagine how to use it.¡± Isabelle answered.


    ¡°I see.¡± The brown-haired woman nodded along.


    ¡°I actually had this idea¡­ where I wouldn¡¯t need to kill people. Where I would just restrain people.¡± Felix explained.


    Anastasia walked into the kitchen, ¡°What¡¯s taking you so long to get some drinks?¡±


    ¡°Ah, right. Sorry.¡± Felix replied.


    ¡°Well, I¡¯ll see you two later.¡± Carol answered as she quickly rushed towards the door.


    ¡°What are you doing in our training facility?¡± The red-haired woman grabbed Carol by the wrist.


    ¡°I-I came here to visit my friend, Felix¡­¡± She answered nervously.


    ¡°I only have one friend at the moment.¡± Felix awkwardly laughed, but as Carol looked at him with worry, he quickly felt the tension in the air.


    Anastasia looked at him with a sharp glare, while Carol gave him a fearful expression, ¡°Her name is Carol Thomas. She¡¯s someone I helped once before.¡± Felix answered in a serious tone.


    ¡°I know who she is. Who authorized her entry?¡±


    Realizing the sudden pressure placed upon her, he quickly answered, ¡°I-I did.¡±


    Anastasia clicked her tongue and let her go.


    Carol quickly pulled back her hand, and rubbed on her aching wrist. She glanced over to Felix, and with a smile, she waved him goodbye, ¡°S-see you.¡±


    As she hurriedly walked out of sight, the red-haired woman looked at Felix and remarked, ¡°She shouldn¡¯t even know where we are, much less have access to this place.¡±


    ¡°Ah, right. I¡¯m sorry.¡± Felix responded.


    ¡°I¡¯ll let it slide this time. Don¡¯t cover for her again.¡± She replied as she walked towards the fridge.


    Isabelle spoke up, ¡°I¡­ it might¡¯ve was probably her badge that let her in.¡±


    ¡°Ah, is that so? I¡¯ll look into it.¡± She rummaged the fridge, grabbing a few bottles, ¡°I wonder if Nero would like this.¡±


    Isabelle turned her head towards Felix and asked, ¡°By only friend, did you mean Maria?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, why?¡±


    ¡°Maybe you could have room for one more? Maybe five more? Us espers need to stick together after all.¡±


    ¡°I guess you¡¯re right. Then, you¡¯re my second friend now.¡± Felix smiled.


    With a flushed face, she smiled back, ¡°I guess I am. I can¡¯t wait until Kaitlin heals up so she could join us.¡±


    Upon hearing those words, Anastasia glanced over to her, and her mouth opened slightly, but decided to keep her mouth shut.


    She got up with a few bottles in her arms and looked over to Felix, ¡°Head back in two minutes.¡±


    ¡°Right.¡±

 Psychic Training part 6

    As the three red-eyed espers returned to their training room. It had become emptied of the clutter, and the wide space in the middle was covered in thick black mats that formed a large ring that was ten-meters in diameter, and in the center of it sat David.


    ¡°Welcome back.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­ yeah, we¡¯re back.¡± Isabelle responded as she looked at her own palm. There was still a lingering pain, and there was a red mark, but her self-inflicted wound had started to close.


    ¡°Anastasia told me that you lot were all watching wrestling. Which gave me an idea.¡± David said to the red-eyed trio.


    ¡°Oh no¡­¡± Grant groaned as he quickly caught on.


    ¡°In a bid for survival, your own aura will kick in. Once it has, you¡¯ll slowly learn how to draw it out on command.¡±


    ¡°In other words, combat training?¡± Nero asked.


    ¡°Correct. You were eventually going to have combat training anyway, but I thought it¡¯d be best to start early. I want to see how far you¡¯ve already come and how much farther you need to do.¡± David explained. ¡°Isabelle, you¡¯re up first.¡±


    ¡°M-me?¡±


    David and Isabelle stood up on the platform made of black mats, while Nero and Grant sat at the side and watched intently.


    ¡°Isabelle seems to be the most adept at using her abilities, so let¡¯s start with her, and maybe you both can learn something.¡±


    ¡°Go easy on me, sir.¡± Isabelle awkwardly laughed.


    ¡°You¡¯ve had six months of training, haven¡¯t you? You should be able to handle it.¡±


    Isabelle frowned and squealed in a low pitch.


    ¡°Relax. I¡¯m joking. Your task is simple, to get me out of bounds using your psychic power. I will block and parry, but I won¡¯t hit you back.¡± He said as a coat of psychic fire formed around him.


    ¡°But¡­ aura cancels out aura.¡± Isabelle gulped.


    ¡°That¡¯s exactly why¡­¡± David stopped with wide eyes and asked, ¡°Wait, how did you know that?¡±


    ¡°It was something me and Nero discovered when we first got our powers.¡±


    ¡°I see. Taking initiative to learn, very admirable. I don¡¯t have a lot of energy to face all of you head on, so the time limit for each round is two minutes.¡± He pressed into his mechanical arm and a holographic screen projected in the air.


    ¡°Ready¡­¡±


    Isabelle raised her arms and let out a deep exhale, her red eyes began to glow, and a red haze suddenly burst from her arm fists.


    ¡°Go¡­¡±


    A raging fire suddenly burst Isabelle¡¯s body, which flung away most of the mats on the floor, as well as everything else in the room that was not pinned down.


    Both Nero and Grant shielded their heads from the blazing red hurricane standing in front of them.


    ¡°It¡¯s just like that time!¡± Nero spoke out loud, recollecting the day he and Isabelle requested for the Felix and Maria to take over their mission, remembering Felix¡¯s panic attack, and how his rampant psychic energy devastated the chief¡¯s office.


    ¡°You can¡¯t just say that and expect me to know what you¡¯re talking about!¡± Grant responded.


    As David watched her fierce crimson flames light up the room, he thought to himself.


    Incredible. What a tremendous amount of psychic power. If this is what these other two are building up to, if this is what Felix is going to become¡­ and surpass¡­ then the Director¡¯s dream wouldn¡¯t be so far-fetched after all.


    He was both wary and excited, but as a smile formed on his lips, she heard her pained voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ hot¡­¡± She muttered out as blood started streaming down her nose.


    ¡°Isabelle, wait!¡± David yelled.


    ¡°Huh, what?¡± She huffed, beads of sweat were sliding down from her face. With quick red gust, her aura vanished, and all of the floating floor mats caught in it fell back to the ground.


    ¡°The mats¡­¡± He pointed to the mats that were scattered by her sudden release of psychic energy.


    ¡°Oh¡­ oh¡­¡± She blurted out as she wiped her nose.


    David raised his mechanical arm, and with an amber glow the same color as his eyes, all of the mats started rearranging back into the pattern it was before.


    ¡°You were using your aura too quickly. If you kept at it, your body wouldn¡¯t be able to handle the rush of psychic energy.¡±


    ¡°Oh, well then it¡¯s a good thing I stopped.¡±


    ¡°Your bones would have snapped, your organs might have ruptured, and your muscles would have burned.¡±


    Her mouth was left agape. He then crossed his arms and went quiet, pressing his metal fingers against his lips.


    Isabelle¡¯s eyes furrowed as she looked to the other two, but they responded with a shrug, and so did she.


    ¡°I got it¡­ Isabelle, remember the dam. Now imagine yourself as a fire.¡±


    ¡°Now you¡¯re just giving me conflicting instructions, sir.¡±


    ¡°Use whichever fits most for the situation. The human soul is more complex than one or two things. Think of yourself, not as a raging fire, but as a still candle in a silent room.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    He reset the clock, and she took her stance.


    The room was lit once again by her aura. Crystalline fires formed around her once more, spiraling from beneath her feet, to above her head.


    David watched with arms crossed, waiting.


    ¡°The hell, again?¡± Grant blurted out as the red waves brushed against his skin like needles.


    But as she took an inhale, the thundering red torrent of energy slowed down and gradually grew smaller.


    In her head, it was a dam that leaked as little as possible, and a fire that¡¯s burning on the smallest wick. All that remained was remained a soft, faint steam that calmly flowing out of her body.


    Amazing.


    That was the only word he could think of to describe her.


    To think that she would be able to learn so quickly, with only a single suggestion.


    ¡°Are you ready?¡± He said as he raised up his arms.


    ¡°Yes sir.¡± She looked at him with determination.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±


    As soon as the clock began to tick, Isabelle leapt at him with an excited grin, but as she struck, both her and David immediately realized that her aura quickly dissipated.


    The large man stood there with a startled look as he easily parried the confused girl¡¯s attack.


    ¡°What¨C what happened?¡± She blurted out as she manifested more energy into her palms, ¡°It¡¯s working, but¡­¡±


    She tried it once more, and a still fire wrapped around her body. She tried boxing against the air, but her aura remained left behind from her initial position and dissipated immediately.


    Watching her, David immediately recognized the problem.


    I see¡­ Though she can imagine it, she doesn¡¯t have the instincts to use her aura in real time, making it lag behind her initial mental images.


    ¡°Isabelle, you¡¯re running out of time.¡±


    Isabelle looked at her mentor and pleaded, ¡°But sir, wait, I can¡¯t get it to work with my body¡­¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t get time-outs in a real battle, Isabelle. Now continue, with or without your aura.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ okay.¡± She resigned herself to fight.


    The fight resumed, and Isabelle quickly circled around him, swift back and forth movements that made sure she wasn¡¯t directly in front of him, quickly disappearing from his line of sight.


    Even without her aura, she was still an enhanced human. With every pause, she struck. But she was always parried, caught, and pushed back each time.


    David reflexively reached out his arm to stop her next strike, but found his arm trapped and suspended in a fiery red.


    ¡°Remember, the objective is to push me out of the ring, not to beat me.¡± He repeated as he chased her movements.


    ¡°I haven¡¯t forgotten.¡± She smirked.


    ¡°What?¡± David blurted out before looking down. He was only a few steps away from the ring.


    Suddenly, a red aura flared out of Isabelle. A brilliant, crystalline crimson leaked all over her body.


    She took her stance and quickly rushed him. With a burst forward, she struck. Only for David to flare up his own energy in response.


    The buzzard rang, and the match was settled.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    ¡°How cunning of you.¡± David remarked.


    ¡°I thought... you weren¡¯t gonna fight back.¡± Isabelle mumbled out. Her arm pulled back, and her head pushed to the ground.


    ¡°I said I wasn¡¯t going to hit you.¡± He answered, letting go of her arm. ¡°Two minutes is up.¡±


    David¡¯s feet were still in the ring. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, that wasn¡¯t too rough, was it?¡± He reached out his hand to help her up.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± Isabelle answered as she stretched out her arm.


    ¡°How did she¡ª?¡± Grant muttered out curiously.


    ¡°Look at the floor.¡± Nero pointed out.


    ¡°Huh? What¡­ when did... she would¡¯ve needed a distraction.¡± He spoke as he noticed how much smaller the fighting space had become.


    ¡°Her attacks were the distraction. Every time she struck him; she moved the floor mats away from him. You were too fixated on the fight to notice.¡± Nero explained.


    The brown-haired man smirked, ¡°She¡¯s surprisingly crafty.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s only been a few days, but you¡¯ve improved a lot. Well done.¡± David praised her.


    ¡°Thank you, sir.¡± Isabelle replied in an exhausted breath.


    He took a long look at Isabelle¡¯s hair, remembering the face of a woman with white hair and warm orange eyes with a four-leaf clover necklace dangling from her neck, smiling brightly at him.


    She tilted her head as David¡¯s gaze did not leave her, ¡°Hm, what is it, sir?¡±


    ¡°Nothing, it¡¯s just...¡± He patted her head with his metal arm.


    She lowered her head while still looking at him with soft eyes.


    To think she was able to come up with that plan on the fly. Not to mention, she¡¯s already extending it outside of her reach without me teaching her. Impressive.


    He lifted his hand from her head, ¡°You still need to do control practices later.¡±


    ¡°¡­yes sir.¡± She replied with dismay before walking to the side of the wall, then taking a generous chug out of her bottle.


    ¡°Grant, you¡¯re up. And don¡¯t bother trying to move the ring.¡± David gestured for Grant to walk up to the makeshift ring.


    ¡°I can¡¯t even if I wanted to. I can barely let out any energy yet.¡± Grant replied as he got up.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it took a year and a half for my psychic powers to fully develop, and another eight months to learn how to control it.¡± The timer on the holographic screen reset, and it began to countdown once again. ¡°Now, generate your energy.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ it¡¯s difficult.¡±


    ¡°Think of the fire that drives you to keep moving and let it manifest through your body. Let the heat envelop you.¡± David instructed with arms crossed.


    A faint red haze began to manifest from Grant¡¯s body. He took his stance, his body tense all over.


    He lunged forward, but then stopped a foot before David, dashing to the side to give him a surprise kick, though David saw this coming, what he failed to anticipate was how Grant¡¯s aura would immediately disperse as it made contact.


    David easily caught Grant¡¯s leg using his human arm.


    ¡°I still can¡¯t maintain it.¡± The brown-haired esper smiled nervously, balancing his body by his toes.


    ¡°You¡¯re at war with yourself. It¡¯s no surprise that your aura is acting so fickle.¡±


    ¡°I have no idea what you¡¯re talking about, I¡¯m in full harmony with myseee¡ª!¡±


    David lifted him up by his leg then threw him across the floor mats.


    Though he pulled back his punches, this attack proved too much for his student, causing him to roll on the floor.


    ¡°¡ªGAHK!¡±


    ¡°Please, you wouldn¡¯t be here if you were. Everyone¡¯s here for an unfortunate reason.¡± David commented with a sigh.


    Both Nero and Isabelle turned their eyes towards the ground in response to that statement.


    Grant¡¯s eyes watered, but quickly got up. As he wiped off his watery eyes, he glimpsed at the black mats on the floors and had a realization.


    He grit his teeth, and with a psychic enhanced foot, he kicked the mat towards David.


    ¡°Really, a distraction?¡± David remarked and placed his metal hand in front of himself, ready to flick it away.


    But instead of it being used as a projectile, the rubbery black mat contorted as it made contact with David¡¯s metal finger, and quickly wrapped around his mechanical arm.


    ¡°Huh?!¡± He tried to unspool the mat from his arm, but he noticed that beneath him, trails of red radiated across the floor, shining from the separated surfaces of the black mats.


    As he got one off, another wrapped around him from behind. And another, and a fourth, until his upper torso was covered in floor mat.


    A boiling hot drop of blood fell down Grant¡¯s nose, which he slowly wiped off. It was the limit of how much psychic energy he could use as he was now.


    He pulled back his arm and ran towards David with a raised fist.


    With a grin on his face, David¡¯s orange energy began to flurry around him, protecting his head.


    Ready for the blow, his orange eyes widened and his teeth unclenched. Rather than the fist to the face he expected, David instead suffered from a foot to his nether regions.


    He let out a short-lived, high-pitched squeal. Before he had any time to recover, a burning red kick shot his entire body over to the side. He rolled dangerously close to the edge of the ring, less than two feet away.


    But David focused his energy, and a blazing, amber torrent burst out of him and tore the mats apart.


    Freed, he then grabbed Grant by the face with his metal arm and lifted him up. Grant¡¯s aura quickly flared up to defend himself, but David slammed him to the mat-covered ground before he could do anything.


    As his body made impact against the floor, his jaw broke open, the crimson aura enveloping him exploded into transient, crystal particles. The clock hanging above him ticked down to zero.


    ¡°Sorry¡­¡± David stood up straight. The torn-up mat that bound him became loose, and he walked toward Grant. He struggled to speak, ¡°You certainly have... skills, that much I¡­ give you. Where did you¡­ learn to fight like that?¡±


    ¡°Bounty hunter¡¯s gotta¡­ have experience.¡± Grant huffed out; the air still knocked out of him.


    ¡°You were a bounty hunter? That explains a lot... Were you scouted out by the agency?¡±


    ¡°Not¡­ exactly.¡±


    ¡°Then how did you find your way here?¡±


    ¡°... Heh¡­ I found an angel with golden hair¡­ chased her all the way here.¡± Grant responded as he shakily forced himself up.


    ¡°In this profession, she might probably be with the angels already.¡±


    ¡°I doubt she¡¯d get killed that easily¡­ She is the Golden Lion, after all.¡±


    ¡°Allison? I see. Anyway, congratulations. You were able to do in a week what took me a month to learn.¡±


    ¡°Kicking balls?¡±


    ¡°Hmph. Just go. Nero, you¡¯re next.¡± Unamused, David called up for his last student.


    Grant limped over to Isabelle and grabbed the bottle on the ground.


    ¡°Nice fight.¡± She gave him a thumbs up.


    ¡°Ahh¡­ thanks. You too.¡± Grant replied as he lifted his bottle. Isabelle¡¯s expression changed, then she realized what he meant and raised her own. ¡°If I had access to my full power like you do, maybe I could¡¯ve gotten him to flinch.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ mhm¡­¡± She stopped to twirl her hair, feeling pressure being added on her shoulders.


    Nero went ahead as both bottles let out a clack, spilling out the little droplets of water.


    As the drop fell to the floor, Felix took a deep inhale as he wiped the beads of sweat from his face. The blue glow around his body fluctuated with small, random bursts.


    ¡°It¡¯s normally best to use your aura as frugally as possible, in case of emergencies. But unlike David and I, you¡¯re supposed to have a reservoir of psychic energy. You have no need to limit how much you release. That¡¯s what your gun, Agony is for.¡± She explained as she picked up his white gun.


    ¡°Right¡­ it was based on yours, wasn¡¯t it?¡± Felix replied.


    She nodded, ¡°It takes as much psychic energy as you produce and releases it as a wave. Though aura on its own isn¡¯t much, you can at least use it to shove things around or knock people out. After you learn how to push things, we¡¯re gonna learn how to grip on to things.¡±


    Felix recollected the moment he fired it against Moritz, and spoke, ¡°When I first managed to use it, it was like I shot out a tornado, one that destroyed everything in its path¡­¡±


    Anastasia¡¯s eye widened slightly, surprised by this, ¡°A tornado? That¡¯s strange.¡±


    The orange-eyed woman was quick to test it out herself. Her psychic energy flared up, a flame-colored energy radiating from her body, funneling into her white gun.


    But as she pulled the trigger, it only shot out a ball of orange energy, one that dispersed as soon as it blasted against the wall.


    She lowered her gun, quickly concluding, ¡°My psychic energy almost never spirals. It might be something unique to your psychology.¡±


    ¡°I see...¡±


    Nero walked to the ring of mats, facing David, ¡°Are you sure you don¡¯t want to take a break first? That last fight looked a little¡­ critical.¡±


    ¡°I may be running on fumes, but I still have enough in me for one more fight.¡± David huffed out.


    ¡°Maybe we should get some more pie?¡±


    ¡°Tell you what, if you win. I¡¯ll get you whatever flavor you like.¡± The countdown began.


    The blond young man walked side to side, watching how his mentor would respond. He threw a feint kick, causing the large man to flinch. He let out the smallest of grins as he steadily lowered his foot.


    David was no fool and immediately realized that his pupil was simply sizing him up.


    Nero threw a second feint, which David attempted to grab. But Nero¡¯s foot burst with a psychic red explosion, which allowed him to escape. He then circled around him for a few seconds, pretending to strike, while the other two watched.


    The iron-armed esper could not deal with Nero as easily as he as he did with the other two red-eyed students, he had lost a sum of his aura, and was dealt significant damage by one of his students.


    He was also very cautious of the blond young man, who began exuding a thick air of blood lust.


    David jumped straight toward him and tussled, throwing a punch, then two punches. Then backing away.


    Sizing up the young man as well. The two combatants portrayed swift, skillful motions.


    The clock was ticking, less than thirty seconds left after Nero finished sizing him out. He let out a wide grin. His body quickly filled with a coat of aura, and a fiery shroud burst from beneath his feet as he lunged forward.


    He evaded David¡¯s metal arm, the one that held down Isabelle to the ground. Then he attacked with a fast, fluid motion, striking both his arms upwards with an explosion of red energy. Psychic energy exploded with every single motion, and then went straight for his throat.


    But before Nero¡¯s fist could reach his throat, David used his energy to speed up significantly.


    Grant and Isabelle¡¯s hairs stood up as they felt an intense bloodlust fill the atmosphere.


    The Black Hound easily maneuvered over Nero¡¯s attack, locking it under his left arm, as he reached for Nero¡¯s face with his metal one. It moved in a speed that he could barely react to, and in such close quarters, impossible for him to avoid.


    A warm drop of sweat slid down from Nero¡¯s temples and glided across the cold metal fingers that was tightly wrapped around his face.


    In the spaces between the metal fingers, the red-eyed esper looked at his opponent and immediately realized why the man in front of him was the first ranked. His mentor was the man at the top of the Elite Agents.


    A man whose power was yet to be rivaled, whose burning orange eyes betrayed his cold, mechanical expression.


    Before he could smash his head into the ground, however, the red-eyed student yelled, ¡°Wait!¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡±


    David noticed on the projection screen that the timer had run out, as he did, Nero cheekily smiled, ¡°I would like¡­ some blueberry pie this time.¡±


    His orange eyes slowly glanced downwards. Half of his foot was out of bounds. His student had accomplished his task in the most straightforward manner.


    The iron-armed fighter let go of Nero¡¯s face, who dropped stiffly on the ground, his nerves still tense.


    ¡°Nero... That was the Dance of the Shadow Demon, wasn¡¯t it?¡± David asked.


    ¡°What about it?¡± Nero got up slowly.


    ¡°...I¡¯m just surprised to see something so ridiculous and impractical being put to use.¡± The iron-armed man crossed his arms.


    ¡°The what of the what now?¡± Isabelle blurted out.


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard about it before. It¡¯s a sword style designed to kill multiple opponents at once. It makes use of consecutive sequences of counter attacks. It¡¯s impractical to use without an actual sword, though.¡± Grant explained.


    ¡°The specific technique he used was the Shadow Demon¡¯s Spider Lily. An impractical move that only something a master could do. To think he attempted it without a sword... and almost succeeded.¡± David added.


    ¡°What¡­ do you mean?¡± Isabelle asked.


    ¡°Luckily, I knew about the move. I was able to avoid it with my left arm, as for my right arm¡­ Well, let¡¯s just be glad it¡¯s made of metal.¡± He showed them his mechanical arm, which had a crack on it. ¡°That move coupled with psychic power. Terrifying combination.¡±


    ¡°Do you need that repaired?¡± Grant asked.


    ¡°It¡¯s made of nanomachines. It¡¯ll repair itself in a few minutes. For now, continue working on your last set, then call it a day.¡±


    ¡°Yes sir.¡± All of them nodded, and David went to the corner and sat down, looking at his broken metal arm.


    ¡°The way you used your explosive aura to your advantage was excellent. It reminds of how Anastasia fights. It just needs some refinement.¡±


    ¡°Hmph, is that so?¡± Nero shrugged. ¡°Well, don¡¯t forget your promise.¡±


    David placed his left hand on his hip and answered, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I know some of the best bakeries in the world. I¡¯ll get you all the best blueberry pie you¡¯ve ever tasted.¡±


    Nero grinned and answered, ¡°I look forward to it.¡±


    The brown-haired man smiled softly, while the silver-haired woman smiled excitedly.


    Grant¡¯s progressing at an average pace, the pace I expected. But these two¡­ Nero is one thing, but how is it that this girl already ascended?  If these two keep progressing at such a rate, Felix might get left behind.


    In the other training room, Anastasia huffed heavily. Pieces of her clothes torn, her skin was riddled with scratches. Helix-shaped patterns marred the room, as if a hurricane shredded through it.


    ¡°A finely tuned fighting sense... You¡¯re no stranger to combat. But when push comes to shove, your fighting style becomes wilder, and more frantic¡­ like some sort of animal.¡± She paused to wipe the red smear off her face, ¡°Reminds me of that lion woman.¡±


    Felix¡¯s back was flat against the cold, hard ground, staring at the ceiling with dead eyes. His chest rising and falling with each labored breath.


    ¡°I can see why they expect so much out of you. But you have no control over that monstrous power of yours¡­¡± The red-haired woman blew out the blood in her nose. Streams of orange electricity sprang out from each of her wounds, sewing them back together, ¡°If you don¡¯t learn how to use it, it will kill you... so you need to figure it out soon.¡±


    Unable to respond, he continued to take in air through his swollen neck and red nose. Bright blue streams radiated from his wounds, stitching them shut.


    She glanced toward the window, the colors of the setting sun seeping into the training room. With a heavy sigh, her shoulders dropped, ¡°Let¡¯s call it a day.¡±


    With a husky voice, he responded, ¡°¡­ right...¡±


    ~

 Psychic Training part 7

    Chapter 22


    Psychic Training part 3


    A loud splashing could be heard as a powerful stream of water pushed Felix against the wall.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, you¡¯re not scared of a little water, are you?¡± Anastasia said, carrying a heavy machine in her arms.


    ¡°I thought you said you would look for an alternative that won¡¯t kill me?¡± Felix whined as he wiped off the dripping water from his face.


    ¡°It¡¯s on low pressure. It won¡¯t kill you.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think I can relax with you pointing that waterjet at¡ª¡± A surge of water blasted him into the wall before he could finish his sentence.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing what you asked. Now get up and draw out your energy.¡±


    Water dripped from Felix¡¯s face and hair as his back slid down from the wall.


    As he gasped for air, the Chief¡¯s words invaded his already cluttered mind;


    It was still too early for you to fight, too early for you to protect anyone. That¡¯s why you were kept from real missions.


    He took a shallow inhale, his eyes narrowed with frustration.


    Instead of being a help, you would¡¯ve been a liability. But now you don¡¯t have that excuse.


    A small flicker, then a stream of blue electricity, until it became a hazy, transparent blue fire that wrapped around his hands.


    ¡°Good, now let the rest of it flow all over your body.¡± His red-haired mentor instructed.


    He slowly got back on his feet and complied, trying to level his ragged breathing.


    The heat in his head increased, and gradually flowed into the rest of his body, like magma flowing through his own flesh. But the blue streams of lightning crackling around his body took its toll on him, searing his skin and quickly fading as it came out of him.


    Anastasia tilted her head up as she remarked, ¡°At this rate, you¡¯ll get left behind.¡±


    ¡°Left behind? By whom¡­?¡±


    ¡°By the other three. I heard from David that they¡¯ve been able to maintain their auras for a while.  But so far, you¡¯ve only been able to use it on your whole body on instinct.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­ I guess that means we have plenty of work to catch up.¡± He blurted out in a tired, lamenting tone. He then grinned and got up, ¡°What are we waiting for, hurry up and¡ª GAHK!¡± The surge of water instantly shot him away.


    ¡°You lost focus. You can only control your aura through your hands, so keep pouring it out from there.¡± Anastasia said as she continued to use the waterjet on him.


    The blast of water was split between Felix¡¯s palms into four different directions between his fingers. The psychic energy in his palm was slowly drained away by the force of the water. His legs were being pushed back and slid on the surface of the tile floor.The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.


    Unable to keep his body steady against the powerful pressure, Felix slipped and fell.


    ¡°I ran out of aura¡­¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t have. You¡¯re supposed to have the most psychic power of any of us.¡±


    ¡°¡­Right.¡± he wiped his drenched face as he lied flat on the ground, the sound of splashing water crackling in his ears.


    In the other room, Nero was flung across the floor.


    ¡°Two minutes is up.¡± David declared. ¡°You¡¯ve gotten sloppy.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s because I¡¯m out of aura¡­¡± Nero said as he got back up.


    ¡°You should have a lot more than that.¡± David replied. ¡°Besides, I told you to manage that. You have a lot of psychic energy, but your explosive use of it drains it far too quickly.¡±


    ¡°Right. Fine tuning.¡± Nero blurted out in response.


    ¡°Grant, your next.¡± David called out.


    Grant stood up. His eyes had thick, visible bags under them, and a bead of sweat poured down his face.


    ¡°Have you ever run out of aura before?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Of course, I have¡­ aura is a different form of energy, and energy used against it quickly drains it. It takes a lot of aura just to prevent bullet from killing you.¡±


    ¡°¡­So what do you do when that happens?¡±


    Anastasia explained to Felix, ¡°Whatever improv you can come up with on the spot to survive. Let me tell you a secret. You¡¯ll always have a little more aura to draw, even when you think you¡¯re all out... But¡­¡± She stopped, realizing that she was about to explain things she was not supposed to.


    ¡°But?¡±


    ¡°But if you feel like you¡¯re all out, it¡¯s best not to force it.¡±


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Anastasia paused, choosing her words carefully, ¡°You¡¯ll get a nosebleed if you do.¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyebrows raised and he replied, ¡°I see.¡±


    She did not have the heart to tell him the whole truth, she could not bear to tell him the reason why the nosebleeds occur.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t know there were downsides to our abilities.¡±


    ¡°Actually, there are two downsides.¡± She corrected him.


    Grant fell to the ground, but with a burst of crimson flare, he quickly got back up. David¡¯s eyes widened as a stream of blood began to pour out of Grant¡¯s nose. He lowered his arms.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± David said as Grant slowly got back up, ¡°Maybe. I was told that your hair has already turned white.¡±


    ¡°Only a bit¡­¡± He responded.


    ¡°So you have some access to your power, but you have no control over it yet.¡± David stated as he placed his fingers on his chin.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t that what we¡¯re training to fix?¡±


    ¡°It is, but you¡¯re overworking yourself.¡±


    ¡°Ha? What do you mean? We¡¯ve barely gotten started.¡±


    ¡°And how much have you been using your psychic power since? How much have you been training outside of this?¡±


    ¡°What does that matter?¡±


    ¡°Grant. I know you feel like psychic energy isn¡¯t a part of you. But it is. It may not be a normal bodily function, but it takes place in your brain. Any form of overexertion is harmful if not handled properly. Even psychic power. When your body feels like it¡¯s starting to overheat, that¡¯s when you should ease up.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±


    ¡°Good. Take a break. That goes for the two of you as well.¡± David said to the other red-eyed espers.


    ¡°If you use too much psychic energy, you um¡­risk getting a nosebleed. Which shouldn¡¯t be a problem for you. But if you use too little, you risk psychic overcharge. David and I suffer from the former. You, being the strongest esper, will suffer from the latter.¡± Anastasia explained to Felix as they sat next to each other on the bench.


    ¡°So I just need to keep using it consistently?¡± Felix replied.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡±


    Felix then looked on the pale floor as he pondered to himself, ¡°I have a question that¡¯s been lingering in my mind.¡±


    ¡°Shoot.¡±


    ¡°What¡­ what does it mean to be an esper?¡± He looked at her with his azure eyes.


    ¡°Hah?¡± She glanced at him and repeated his question, ¡°What it means to be an esper?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Felix nodded.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s a question I can answer, why bother assigning meaning to something so...¡± She scoffed and shrugged, but halfway through her sentence, she caught a glimpse of Felix¡¯s crestfallen expression and the volume of her already small voice shrunk, ¡°...vague and arbitrary.¡±


    Gears started turning in her head as she thought to herself;


    What am I doing? This is the moment I can be a cool and caring mentor!


    Anastasia pushed back her cynical thoughts and cleared her throat, ¡°Superficially speaking, we now have the ability to move things with our mind, but I think...¡±


    She flashed him a calculated smile, ¡°That it gives us a strength to push beyond our limits. To be strong in a way that we need to be.¡±


    Felix¡¯s spirits were lifted by this answer, and he too gave a bright smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s why you need learn how it works before you become a liability. Figure out what¡¯s keeping you from using your powers and overcome it. You¡¯re supposed to be the strongest, after all.¡±


    He clenched his fist and confidently answered, ¡°Alright.¡±


    ~

 Psychic Training part 8

    Isabelle laid flat on the ground in an open field, her bright eyes were hidden behind opaque goggles while she clutched a rifle.


    Half of her face was illuminated by the beams of sunlight that pierced through the clouds.


    Up ahead were ten human-shaped targets, wooden planks that were dozens of meters apart. The first of which, the one closest to her, was shattered and riddled with bullet holes, as if it was the target of a machine gun.


    In her mind, she constructed a path way from the first one to the last. As soon as she felt confident in her mental calculations ¡ª she fired.


    The first one was a bullseye, a perfect hit in the center.


    It then continued, radiating with a crimson haze. As it flew across the open field, then took a sharp turn, breaking a hole through the second target, very near its center, before heading straight towards the third. But as it traveled through the shafts of sunlight and the cloudy shade, it struck the very edge of the third target¡¯s head.


    ¡°Well, it almost worked¡­¡± She lamented to herself, letting out a frustrated sigh.


    Isabelle got up and dusted herself off, and went over to David, who asked her, ¡°Are you finally going to eat lunch?¡± He yawned.


    She removed her goggles and said, ¡°I have a few questions¡­¡±


    ¡°Does it concern pie?¡±


    ¡°What? No.¡± Her eyebrows curled, sighing, ¡°I just wanna know, how did you figure all of this aura stuff?¡±


    ¡°We didn¡¯t learn it overnight, Isabelle.¡± He scratched his head and answered, ¡°Me and Anastasia, as well as our old comrades, had to figure this out on our own through trial and error. We copied from nature, mostly ¡ª watching fire burn and waves crash. It took us almost two years to understand how it works. That and also tv gave us an idea.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­¡±


    ¡°The problem is that bullets¡­ Bullets aren¡¯t part of nature. That¡¯s why it¡¯s so hard to imbue aura into. We don¡¯t really recognize something moving faster than the eye can see. I was surprised when you said you wanted to try this out on the shooting range. It becomes difficult to control your psychic energy once it¡¯s separated from your body.¡±


    ¡°Yeah¡­ I¡¯ve come to realize that.¡± She turned around, looking at her progress on the field.


    The first dummy was riddled with holes, and so was the second one. The third one had four holes in it, along with the freshly shattered edge, and the fourth one had a single hole in it. The fifth one onwards were in pristine condition.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it won¡¯t take you that long. You have us to teach you, and you¡¯ve already come a long way experimenting with your abilities like this.¡± He said confidently, ¡°If you no longer have any questions, it¡¯s time for lunch.¡±


    ¡°I have one more question. Did you um¡­ did you also dye your hair?¡±


    With an eyebrow raised, he responded, ¡°Huh? Yeah, I did.¡±


    ¡°Did you dye your hair to match with your eyes? Orange hair, orange eyes? Is it like a pun, matching the curtains with the window?¡±


    ¡°White hair didn¡¯t look good on me. And¡­ someone important to me said it looked better this way.¡± David answered in a roundabout way, his metal arm then started to ring.


    ¡°Hmmmm¡­¡± She muttered with doubt.


    ¡°I need to take this. You should take a break already and meet up with the other two.¡± He said as he quickly left, answering his hand with, ¡°Sir, yes sir¡­ okay sir.¡±


    With an eyebrow raised, she watched, ¡°Mhm¡­ okay then.¡±


    *


    ¡°Everyone¡¯s changing their hair color left and right.¡± Isabelle sighed, headed to the kitchen with her chin in her hand, ¡°He definitely meant Luna, didn¡¯t he? I guess I shouldn¡¯t pry¡­¡±


    As she opened the door, she found three individuals already there with drinks beside them.If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    ¡°If it isn¡¯t little miss vampire wannabe.¡± She was greeted with a taunt from Maria, who was sitting at the counter, eating cookies. On the table were her two red-eyed colleagues, eating potato chips while they stared at the screen watching a film.


    ¡°Where have you been?¡± Isabelle asked.


    ¡°Missions.¡± The dark-haired woman shrugged, ¡°Where¡¯s Felix?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised he¡¯s not with you.¡±


    ¡°I thought he was still training. Haven¡¯t seen him all day.¡±


    ¡°Could you go look for him, Isabelle?¡± Grant requested without even bothering to look at her.


    ¡°Sigh, fine. Whatever.¡± The red-eyed woman sighed again and walked out the door.


    ¡°And what are you two doing.¡± Maria asked as she glanced over to the other two.


    ¡°Watching a movie.¡± The two replied in tandem.


    Maria perched her head over her hand. ¡°¡­ morons.¡±


    **


    The hatch to Felix¡¯s room creaked open as a silver-haired girl peaked inside.


    ¡°Huh? Who¡¯s there?¡± Felix asked, his face still covered by the shirt.


    She looked quickly looked away, but her crimson red eyes gravitated towards the shirtless Felix, unable to help herself, ¡°It¡¯s¡ª it¡¯s me.¡±


    ¡°Oh hi, Isabelle.¡±


    As he put on his gray shirt, he looked to Isabelle, who was desperately trying to look away. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s ¡­ nothing.¡± She faced away and twirled her hair.


    ¡°So¡­¡± He said as he put on his four-leaf clover necklace.


    ¡°Y-yeah¡­ I was gonna¡ª why are you soaking wet?¡±


    ¡°Training.¡±


    ¡°Why¡­ would you ever need to train with water?¡±


    ¡°It was Anastasia¡¯s idea. It¡¯s the closest thing we could come up with¡­ against¡­¡± His eyes narrowed, the memory of the white beam of destruction that tore through his hand in his previous mission.


    Isabelle looked around the dim room and noticed a pen on the table, as she looked back at Felix¡¯s dripping wet body with a red flush on her cheeks, she smirked slightly and picked it up the pen, ¡°You know¡­ I have a pen that can write underwater.¡±


    ¡°Ah, is that so?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it can write other words too.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Oh. Oh¡­¡± Felix dryly responded as he caught on to her joke.


    Suddenly, there was a buzz noise on the table, and a ring from Isabelle¡¯s back pocket. As Felix picked up his phone, Isabelle spoke first, ¡°It¡¯s a message from David. Said that he¡¯ll be working on paper work today, also says not to disturb him otherwise we have to buy him¡ª¡±


    ¡°¡ªApple pie.¡± Felix cut her off, knowing full well what David would say.


    ¡°Ah, mhm. That¡¯s right. And yours?¡±


    ¡°Anastasia says she went to headquarters. Guess that means I don¡¯t have anything to do.¡±


    ¡°So, what do you plan to do?¡±


    ¡°Normally I would just train for a little while, have some coffee after¡­ but¡­¡± Felix picked up a bottle, the one meant to stabilize his psychic powers, and swallowed one of the pills. ¡°¡­I¡¯ve been training nonstop. Now I just wanna have some coffee and rest.¡±


    Her curious expression turned into a smile.


    ¡°Really.¡± She giggled, ¡°You¡¯re nothing like I thought you were.¡±


    ¡°What did you think of me, then?¡± He asked with dry sarcasm.


    ¡°From the stories I¡¯ve heard, I thought that you¡¯d be¡­ a cold and hardened killer, who would be difficult to talk to... Sometimes I idealized that you¡¯d be this shining beacon, raised to save lives and to protect the peace at all costs.¡±


    ¡°Thanks. I¡¯m glad you hold me in such high regard.¡±


    ¡°I mean, you¡¯re still difficult to talk to, just in another way. But I like this you much better than the ideal I held you in.¡±


    ¡°To be fair, neither of those are wrong.¡± He smiled.


    ¡°You really surpassed my expectations, you and Nero both.¡± She softly giggled.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°I thought Nero was just an idiot, and yet I realize he¡¯s incredibly strong. And I thought you were incredibly strong, but¡­¡±


    ¡°Are you saying I¡¯m an idiot?¡± Felix squinted.


    ¡°Well¡­¡± She looked away.


    ¡°Here I thought I was the cold-hearted killer¡­Besides, how is Nero strong?¡± Felix asked condescendingly.


    ¡°I mean, he beat David the first time they sparred.¡±


    ¡°Nero¡­ beat David?¡± He mumbled out with a startled expression, his eyes wide.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°Interesting¡­¡± He bit his thumb with a grin, a burning motivation ran through his veins.


    Isabelle¡¯s eyebrows curled in response, but the faint blue glow faded as he glanced over to her, ¡°But we¡¯re not the only one who are strong. You are too.¡±


    ¡°Eh?¡± Her cheeks reddened slightly.


    ¡°You have full access to your powers, right?¡± He asked as he held her hair.


    ¡°O-oh, that¡¯s what you meant¡­¡± She giggled, ¡°It¡¯s funny you say that¡­ I have all this pressure on me¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m a little glad. When you saw you leave after the Director, I realized we were in the same boat. It sounds selfish, but I¡¯m glad someone understands how it feels¡­¡±


    ¡°Is, is that so?¡± She stuttered over her words.


    ¡°Still¡­ Nero beat David. I¡¯m feeling motivated.¡± A stream of blue began to seep out of his skin.


    ¡°Well, maybe you could um, put that motivation away while we have some coffee?¡± Isabelle replied as she twiddled her fingers.


    ¡°Ow¡­ oh, right.¡±


    The two of them returned to the sight of three people watching a movie on a small, maroon laptop. Felix¡¯s sharp eyes were set on the blonde-haired man with a sandwich in hand. Maria looked up at Felix and Isabelle with a cold glare.


    When Grant noticed, he looked up and waved, all while Nero was still focused on the film.


    As they sat down with the other three, Grant asked a question. ¡°I already asked these two, but do you have any tips for me to work on for my power.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ really don¡¯t¡­ know.¡± Felix answered as he looked at his own reflection in his coffee, his blue eyes being a stark contrast to the dark brown, but as he looked up the Grant¡¯s focused gaze, he gave his answer, ¡°But Anastasia told me to find out what¡¯s keeping me from using my power¡­ and overcome it.¡±


    Maria subtly smirked as she listened silently to Felix¡¯s answer.


    Grant¡¯s serious expression broke into an awkward smile and replied, ¡°I see. Practice makes perfect, then.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s all we really can do.¡± Isabelle shrugged in response.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna hear it from you, you¡¯re the one improving the fastest.¡± Nero replied as he dug into his snack.


    Isabelle whimpered while Grant chuckled. While the other two partners simply smiled at each other and continued eating.


    ~

 Psychic Training part 9

    The office of the chief was bathed in pale sunlight, filtered through heavy clouds. The two orange-eyed espers, David and Anastasia, stood before the desk, their postures straight but their expressions subtly wary.


    ¡°David, how is the training going for the three?¡± The Director inquired, who was sat on the chief¡¯s desk. The chief stood behind him, their silhouettes traced a fine white from the light coming from the window.


    ¡°Nero progresses at a regular rate,¡± David began, his voice even but professional. ¡°He doesn¡¯t grasp things quickly at first, but once he does, he catches on fast. However, he has a bad habit of generating explosive energy bursts. As a result, he burns through his aura too quickly.¡±


    ¡°Is that so¡­¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir. As for Grant, he¡¯s slower on the uptake. He¡¯s rigid and inflexible. Something in his mind must be holding him back. But he¡¯s persistent and pushes himself hard. His progress is¡­ well, at the very least, he¡¯s progressing faster than we did when we first became espers.¡±


    Chief Vivian interfered, ¡°So you¡¯re saying it¡¯ll take another year or two before he becomes useful in the field.¡±


    ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say that, but¡­ baby steps, I suppose.¡±


    ¡°And as for Isabelle Castella?¡±


    David hesitated, his gaze lowering to the floor, ¡°As for her, she¡¯s...¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s to be expected. Given her background, it¡¯s only natural that she¡¯d barely scrape by.¡± Chief shrugged with a disappointed look, expecting the silver-haired girl to lag behind.


    ¡°No, it¡¯s actually the opposite. Her progress is abnormally fast.¡± David clarified, shaking his head, ¡°She started off releasing all of her energy at once, but in the past few days, she¡¯s already learned how to minimize and use it effectively. She still has problems, but she¡¯s incredibly quick to overcome them.¡±


    ¡°Considering she already has full access to her psychic abilities, she¡¯s already more powerful than all of us.¡± Anastasia added.


    ¡°You must be exaggerating.¡± The chief scoffed.


    ¡°I¡¯m not, sir. I would go so far as to say she¡¯s almost on par with Nero or Felix in terms of combat.¡±


    ¡°I ran a background check, she was just a normal woman before we picked her up. How is she progressing faster than the assassin and the bounty hunter?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what else to tell you. It¡¯s not just that she¡¯s eager to learn, it¡¯s that she learns too quickly. My guess is... If Isabelle was a fourth stage like Felix, you¡¯d have yourself a monster.¡±


    ¡°Is that a suggestion?¡± The Director humored the assertion, ¡°Should we attempt to turn her into a fourth stage?¡±


    ¡°If she could survive it, then maybe¡­¡± David considered.


    ¡°Perhaps Isabelle is an anomaly, but her heart is too soft.¡± The Chief interjected. In those few short words, she implied everything she needed to say.


    David looked up and responded, ¡°Ah, it¡¯s as you say, sir. She¡¯s very soft-hearted. I¡¯m afraid that she might not have the stomach for what we do.¡±


    The air in the office suddenly grew heavy as the Director spoke.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget,¡± He opened his other eye, revealing its amber glare, and dark sclera, ¡°I was the one who found her, and I chose her for a reason.¡±


    Agitated and cold, the Chief clutched her chest, feeling it tightening.


    Even two of the top agents felt the hairs on the back of their necks stand up, feeling the weight of his gaze.


    But as he closed it, he gave a small, jovial smile, ¡°She just needs a little push.¡±


    The three individuals felt like they were allowed to breathe once again.


    He then shifted his attention towards the red-haired woman, ¡°Anastasia, how¡¯s Felix?¡±


    The red-haired woman gulped, then answered, ¡°Sir, he¡¯s progressing at a normal pace as expected. So far he¡¯s learned how to manifest psychic energy in his hands.¡±


    ¡°But he can¡¯t use it on his whole body yet?¡±Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    ¡°He can¡­¡± She clarified, ¡°But he can only do it on instinct, not on command.¡±


    ¡°Is that so?¡± He responded, almost disappointed.


    ¡°Right now, I think he and Nero should be on the same level.¡±


    ¡°I see. Then, how about we see for ourselves the fruits of your hard labor.¡± The Director¡¯s lips curled lightly, letting out a smile ever so slight as he scratched his beard, ¡°Thank you for the suggestion, Anastasia.¡±


    ¡°I, um¡­ you¡¯re welcome, sir?¡±


    The old, polar-bear like man got up from the chief¡¯s seat, ¡°You¡¯re free to go.¡±


    ¡°Director. Where are you headed?¡± Chief Vivian asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to see an old friend.¡± The Director answered as he walked towards the door.


    The two amber-eyed operatives looked at each other with a shrug, then headed for the door as well.


    But as they walked, the chief spoke, ¡°Anya, wait¡­¡±


    Anastasia turned around while David exited the door.


    ¡°While you¡¯re still here, I¡¯m assigning you on an urgent mission.¡± A holographic projection appeared in front of them.


    *


    Rattling metal could be heard in the slowly dimming training room, the bright sunset slowly sank from the windows, while a frustrated man with red eyes struggled to hit the mark he set out for himself.


    ¡°One more time.¡± Grant grunted as he gripped his chain. The room gradually darkened, making his glowing eyes the last source of light.


    With a fiery red haze, it burst forward and missed the wooden target ahead of it. He then pulled back his arm, trying to use the momentum that launched it, before suddenly feeling the strain of trying to pull back an anchor.


    ¡°Ahrk!¡± He grabbed his own aching shoulder.


    He sighed as he pulled back his arm, expecting the chain to return. But it remained in the air, stiff and steady like a broadsword, wrapped in a red glow.


    ¡°Come! Back!¡± He grumbled as he waved his arm around, but the iron-ball remained suspended in the same spot, while the rest of the chain followed along with his arms movements, making a soft clatter.


    ¡°URGH! Why won¡¯t you work?! Listen to me!¡± He growled in frustration.


    ¡°It¡¯s because you¡¯re doing it wrong.¡± A figure spoke from behind him.


    ¡°Ahk!¡ª¡± Startled, the red energy on the chain dispersed and it fell to the ground with a heavy gong. When Grant looked at the figure, he sighed and asked, ¡°Maria... when did you get here?¡±


    ¡°You left the door open. I¡¯ve been watching for five minutes.¡± She cheerfully replied.


    ¡°Huh¡­¡± He let out a resigned sigh, ¡°What am I doing wrong, then?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re thinking of how it should move, trying to dictate how it should be. Don¡¯t you hear the chains rattling? What you have to do is let it move on its own. Even a bystander can figure it out just by watching how you use your psychic energy.¡± She sharply remarked.


    ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m doing.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not. You¡¯re imagining where the chain should go and trying to dictate its every move. That¡¯s not how it works. You let the head lead, and everything else follows. Once you¡¯ve got that down, learn to use your energy to create a vacuum through the surrounding air, removing as much friction as it swings.¡±


    ¡°But Isabelle was able to...¡± He weakly protested.


    ¡°You¡¯re not Isabelle. You¡¯re you. It¡¯s the same power expressed differently. From how I understand it, what Isabelle¡¯s doing is pre-calculating a dozen possibilities for her trajectory, so the bullet is pre-programmed to react in a certain way before the gun is even fired. But with you, you¡¯re doing it in real-time, so don¡¯t think of the chain as something you control, but something you guide.¡±


    ¡°You mean¡­ like a snake?¡±


    Maria nodded.


    Grant attempted once more. The chain ball shot forward, and as it missed its target, he moved back his arm and the chain followed, only to miss again.


    ¡°You¡¯re still doing it wrong. Learn to use momentum to your energy¡¯s advantage.¡±


    ¡°What am I supposed to do?¡±


    ¡°When you use a hammer, do you still think about the hammer in your hand? About what you¡¯re gonna do next?¡±


    ¡°N-no?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s the opposite of that.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ huh?¡± His glowing eyes focused on the chain in his hands.


    ¡°It probably sounds counter-intuitive, but you need to remember that psychic power is mental power. Now, picture it in your head and try again.¡±


    One more time, he took a deep breath. He closed his crimson eyes, a single, red dot formed in his vision. In the darkness, that dot expanded into a burning red sphere, like a star in the center of vast nothingness.


    Grant¡¯s grip on the chains tightened, in his headspace, the red sphere grew and expanded into a growing red cylinder. His eyes curled, and the cylindrical structure curved with it, gradually transforming into the link on the chain.


    His fingers ran across the weapon in his hand, feeling every link and separation. The texture, the form, creating a vivid image in his head. One that burned with crimson glow.


    ¡°Psychic energy flows from inside your body, and exerted out into the real world, flowing into that chain.¡±


    The metal warmed up as it gradually became enveloped in a thin crimson fires of his energy.


    He pulled back his arm, and feeling the burning aura course through his veins. He struck once more and missed his target, but as he held bated breath, his fixation tightened towards his goal, and the chain curved, pulled by his aura, following his will.


    But it was still incomplete.


    Not content with the outcome, Grant grit his teeth and pulled up arm, causing the chain to turn once more.


    It sharply whipped across air and wrapped around its target, coiling around until it smashed against it into bits.


    Grant let out a heavy exhale, and the thick iron ball fell with a thick thud, followed by a metallic clatter, ¡°It¡­ worked.¡±


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s a start. At least you get the gist of it.¡± She placed her hand on her hip.


    He wiped the drop of sweat sliding down his cheek, ¡°I¡¯m not sure I have the luxury to think while in the middle of a battle.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why you have to train until it becomes second nature. Now that you have the feel for it, it should be smooth sailing from there.¡± She smirked. Her dark eyes gaze then landed on his preferred weapon, ¡°Why a chain, anyway?¡±


    ¡°It was the first thing I was able to work with¡­ everything else just seemed¡­ so much more difficult to use compared to this.¡±


    ¡°That so? Might have imprinted on you. A sense of justice, maybe? Anyways, keep practicing until it hits like a cannon ball.¡± She patted his back before heading towards the door.


    ¡°Maria... Thank you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re welcome.¡± She replied without even bothering turning around.


    ~

 Brilliant Light Industries part 1

    Chapter 23


    Brilliant Light Industries


    The Director stared at his watch, waiting every second tick by until the hand reached the exact hour. When it did, he reached the black door and placed his hand on the scanner beside it.


    It traced his hand with a transparent green light, and an automated voice spoke, ¡°Biometrics confirmed. Welcome, Director Sullivan Osbourne.¡±


    The door opened, followed by a wintry welcome as a blast of cold wind greeted the director of the Golden Lion Organization.


    ¡°Welcome, Director Sullivan.¡± A feminine voice echoed above, from the woman who sat atop the hill inside the snowy room as he entered.


    The director silently trudged up the icy hill and through the cold winds and met with the woman who sat atop it, on a tea table where none of the snow reached. Her skin was fair and pale, like the snow that they were in, and her hair was a shade of light purple. She was dressed elegantly in hues of blue and purple.


    ¡°Good to see you, Estelle.¡± He said as he took a seat on the metallic, white chair. On the table was a tea set and a plate full of biscuits.


    He picked up the teapot on the table and poured himself a cup full.


    ¡°As always, you¡¯ve arrived exactly when you said you would¡­ Still, I was hoping you¡¯d call more often.¡± She jokingly remarked.


    ¡°I would but I never have any good news to share.¡±


    ¡°Still, you really didn¡¯t need to come all the way to my office just for a meeting. Have you never heard of the internet?¡±


    The Director tilted his head up and watched the curtains of vibrant dancing colors above them, ¡°I like the scenery here. I¡¯m always amazed at this artificial marvel.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you liked it, it costed me a pretty penny.¡±


    ¡°However, I don¡¯t like it when you use it on yourself.¡± He grabbed a sugar cube and began to stir it in his tea.


    ¡°Come now, is this really any different from a woman wearing make up?¡± She responded flippantly.


    ¡°Because that¡¯s not what it is.¡± Director answered bluntly.


    ¡°And I suppose you want me to turn the off the auroras as well? Even though I had all of this prepared for your visit, honestly.¡± Estelle lamented and placed her palm on her cheek.


    She reached for her chest, grabbing an invisible object. As she clicked it, it powered down, turning into a small black cube. Half of her face began to glow with transparent glowing boxes, before breaking into digital fractals that faded away.


    Her real appearance was in full view ¡ª a black eyepatch covered her right eye, while burn scars disfigured half of her face, stretching up to her ear. It was unlike Anastasia¡¯s, but was far worse in appearance.


    ¡°So then, what brings the sudden visit?¡± She said before sipping her tea, her sweet tone of voice gone and changed to something more somber and petulant in front of the one who spoiled her fun.


    He opened his scarred eye, which had a black sclera, as well as an orange glowing pupil that glistened within the snowy simulated world, ¡°Were you creating a matrix key, by any chance?¡±


    Estelle spat out her drink and asked, ¡°W-what have you heard?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve picked up two of its fragments recently. According to one of our operatives, Maria Readman, its data signature belongs to Brilliant Light Industries.¡±


    ¡°We were¡­ working on it, yes.¡± She weakly admitted.


    ¡°And you lost it.¡±


    ¡°¡­ It was stolen almost two months ago. We believe the suspects involved a certain¡­ Harbinger.¡±


    ¡°Why did you not inform the other organizations about this project of yours, or about the fact that you lost it?¡±


    ¡°It was incomplete, and pretty much harmless in it¡¯s current state, so we were hoping to recover it before it caused any trouble. Besides, we didn¡¯t need to inform you of anything. We¡¯re all busy working on our own projects, aren¡¯t we?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re an alliance for a reason. We share our information.¡±


    ¡°You should have thought about that before you did Project ASTRAEA. I only found out about your superhuman projects thirteen years after you¡¯ve started. No agreements involved, no rules were set up, no news of where the funding went.¡± .If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ¡°All of the shareholders were given appropriate news of the progress. Brilliant Light didn¡¯t offer to any funding.¡±


    ¡°Because we did not know! Thirty years we¡¯ve known each other, Sully. Thirty years! You give information, you get information. That¡¯s how this works!¡± The scarred woman lashed out, emphasizing every other word.


    ¡°You would have been against it.¡±


    ¡°Of course, I would have been against it! You were killing children! Eight-hundred orphans, Sully. Eight-hundred children were slaughtered in your experiments. For what? So that you could have ten? Twenty of your super soldiers?¡± Estelle broke out in a fit.


    ¡°We stopped using orphans.¡±


    ¡°Not the point! And having people volunteer to their deaths for a measly few grand isn¡¯t much better, Sully! All of the people you¡¯ve lead to their early graves¡­¡±


    ¡°Project CHIMERA is also doing the same thing.¡±


    ¡°They were supposed to be bringing back extinct animals, I don¡¯t understand how they ended up making animal people!¡± She yelled as she kept slamming her hand on the table with a disappointed look on her face.


    The director lowered his head for a few seconds, watching the steam flow out of his cup before taking a sip.


    ¡°Sigh¡­ so, is this all it¡¯s about? We lost the matrix key we were working on, and your agents found it? How much do you want for us to buy it back?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s been fragmented, broken into five, maybe six pieces. According to Maria, they¡¯re useless as they are currently, so I want to know what it was made for.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a Matrix Key. It¡¯s designed to break into any security there is. What else?¡±


    ¡°Is it possible for you to track down the remaining pieces?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve been trying to do that for a while, and so far, no luck.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡±


    ¡°And? That can¡¯t be all you came to say, is it?¡±


    The Director paused, twirling his teacup for a second, ¡°¡­ We¡¯ve come in contact with a Jackal¡¯s Fang.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not like they can do anything with their mad scientist trapped in Cocytus. We have other things to worry about.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget the tens of thousands of people they killed.¡±


    ¡°So what? So have Dahmer, the Shaman¡¯s Cult, and even Blind Garden. Don¡¯t forget that the government is doing everything in their power to shut us down. The little terrorist group is on it¡¯s last legs.¡± She responded frantically.


    ¡°According to the report, he claimed to have been a new member.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re rebuilding? So what?¡± Estelle picked up the pot and began pouring herself another cup.


    ¡°Not only that, but according to Felix, he also had what sounded like your illusion tech?¡±


    She looked up to his, unaware that her boiling hot tea had spilled over her, ¡°¡­What? Ow! Tsk! Eh?¡±


    Estelle looked at Sullivan, whose serious expression softened with a relieved smirk. ¡°As clumsy as ever.¡±


    Her wide-eyed expression turned into an irritated pout, ¡°So you had me disable my virtual make up just to see if it was really me?¡±


    ¡°Or if you were really here.¡±


    ¡°Honestly, Sully. You piss me off more and more every time we see each other.¡±


    ¡°So, you really have no idea how they had your illusion tech?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s possible for them to be developing their own, but¡­ you¡¯re saying that I have a traitor among my ranks?¡±


    The director responded with nothing but a stoic gaze.


    ¡°I¡¯ll look into it. Anything else? I would really like you to leave before you piss me off any more.¡±


    ¡°Then, are you free any time soon? There¡¯s an event I would like to hold. I¡¯d like to invite you to watch it.¡±


    ¡°I¡­ will make some time.¡±


    Director Sullivan smiled softly, much to her annoyance. He reached for one of the biscuits and looked up once more, his mismatched eyes of black and orange gazed up to the artificial aurora borealis above them.


    *


    Anastasia fumbled around the chrome-teal halls. Outside the windowed walls was the were the dark skies of night, with barely any stars to show for.


    She took a swig from the brown bottle from her hand.


    As she lowered the bottle, she stared at the alcohol waved back and forth. The brown bottle reminding her of the events prior to her return.


    ¡°This is all your fault!¡± A sad, angry voice echoed as she prepared her things. She turned back and saw two men in black armor, one yelling at her with a brown, glass bottle in hand, ¡°You let him die!¡±


    ¡°Calm down, Harvey! It wasn¡¯t her fault. Quit shouting at the commander!¡± The other man said as he tried to stop him.


    ¡°It wouldn¡¯t have turned out like this if Rico was still here!¡±


    ¡°Harvey! Stop it!¡±


    ¡°He used his powers to save us! To save me! Why couldn¡¯t you do the same?!¡±


    ¡°I ran out of power.¡± She answered.


    ¡°Shut up! You just want to save your own skin. I thought I¡¯d be safe with you espers! Like we were with Rico!¡±


    Anastasia opened her mouth, ¡°You all knew the risk. I did what I could for the least possible casualties.¡±


    ¡°You frigid bitch!¡±


    ¡°Come on! Stop it.¡±


    ¡°Let me go! Let me go!¡± Harvey drunkenly yelled as he elbowed the man.


    Another agent in an armored suit came along and pulled away the drunk, angry man. ¡°Sorry about that commander, he¡¯s had too much to drink.¡±


    As he was dragged away, Anastasia mumbled softly with a downtrodden expression, ¡°¡­I did what I could.¡±


    ¡°I know you did, commander.¡±


    ¡°¡­ Just because we have powers doesn¡¯t mean we can do everything.¡±


    The man clenched his fist, ¡°I know that¡­ it¡¯s just¡­ Rico was¡­ he gave us this unreasonable hope that enhanced humans could do anything. I know it¡¯s unfair to think that¡­ but still. You give us hope¡­ the hope that we¡¯ll make it back alive every time we go out, so seeing someone die...¡±


    The angry man struggled and broke free from the other subordinates¡¯ grip and threw the bottle in his hand right towards her. Anastasia caught it with ease, but because the bottle was upside down, its contents spilled all over her face.


    ¡°C-commander Tundra. I¡¯ll go grab a towel.¡± He gestured his thumb.


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She responded in a small voice as the spilled alcohol slid down her cheek.


    Walking through the halls, Anastasia took another swig, the last one before the bottle ran out.


    In the reflection of the brown glass, she saw the faces of two agents, Rico and Kaitlin. A memory replayed as the two of the peppy girl smiled and asked, ¡°Agent Tundra! Come eat cake with us!¡±


    She bit her lip in frustration, and her white eyepatch started to darken. She threw the bottle in rage, shattering it and promptly moving on. Her whole body staggered with every step.


    As she toppled over face first, Felix, who had just exited the washroom, noticed and rushed to over to help her.


    ¡°Anya, are you alright? What happened.¡±


    ¡°Did you hic¡­ do your training? Hic.¡± Anastasia replied with the thick scent of alcohol on her. Her face was completely red.


    ¡°I did. Are you okay? Maybe you should go somewhere to rest.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m really not, but let me just... sober up a bit¡­¡± She said as she opened forced herself back on her own two feet, but she had no strength in her knees to stay upright.


    Felix put her arm over his shoulder and helped her up on her feet.

 Brilliant Light Industries part 2

    Isabelle walked slowly through the hall with arms behind her back. Casually strolling around as she watched the lights flicker in the distance through the window walls.


    But her nose picked up the scent of alcohol in the air, and her eyes furrowed, ¡°Are they drinking without me?¡±


    She then turned the corner and saw the shattered glass on the ground, ¡°What happened here? Where is everyone?¡±


    The red-eyed woman began to lightly jog, but then ran back and muttered to herself, ¡°I should probably clean this up.¡±


    The door to the kitchen opened, light filled the room. it was dark, and a man with glowing red eyes entered went inside, only to meet the only other man with glowing red eyes already inside, sitting on the counter.


    ¡°Hm?¡± Nero looked back with an angry, yet curious expression, only to find Grant walk into the room.


    ¡°Nero? What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°Midnight snack.¡± He replied as he bit off a piece of the sandwich in his hand, watching from a small red laptop.


    ¡°Ah¡­ well, same. What¡¯s up with the scowl?¡± The brown-haired man asked as he made his way to the refrigerator, commenting on Nero¡¯s furrowed eyebrows while he chewed his sandwich.


    ¡°Something¡¯s been bothering me lately.¡±


    ¡°Care to share?¡±


    ¡°If we create heat and light, doesn¡¯t that make us radioactive? Do you think we have cancer?¡± He asked with unnerving seriousness.


    Stunned, Grant placed in hand on his chin as he sunk deeply into his own thoughts.


    ¡°Wanna watch a movie?¡± Nero asked without regard for the dilemma he put him in.


    ¡°... That¡¯s...¡±


    The blond man stretched out his arm facing towards one of the chairs.


    It lit up with a bright crimson and tumbled to the ground, before dragging it¡¯s way closer to himself, clearly struggling to pull it with psychic power.


    ¡°I know you¡¯ve got a lot on your plate, and I really don¡¯t care to find out it¡¯s about. So just come clear your head and watch a movie with me.¡± Nero said.


    ¡°Okay¡­¡± With a subdued responds, Grant sat down, wanting to get rid of the question radiating in his head.


    As the two watched the movie, the door opened again as Isabelle walked in, seeing the two sat down, ¡°Are you guys drinking?¡±


    Nero answered without even looking to face her, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Oh, okay then¡­¡±


    ¡°I am a bit thirsty¡­¡± Grant then turned around, using his psychic-powered chain to reach for a bottle of water on the counter.


    Isabelle, who was standing right beside the counter, reached for it.


    ¡°No, no. I got it. Let me just¡­¡± The brown-haired man spoke up, the chain rattling slightly as it gradually moved forward.


    But as the chain wrapped around the plastic bottle, the sudden metal grip crushed it, causing the water to spill everywhere. ¡°Ah, dang it. Isa, could you just¡­¡±


    ¡°Already on it¡­¡± Isabelle replied as she opened the fridge and tossed him a cold water bottle.


    ¡°Thanks.¡±


    ¡°Happy to help¡­¡± She smiled, ¡°What was I doing? Oh, right¡­¡± Isabelle blurted out as she exited the room.


    *


    This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    The sound of running water could be heard in a pale white room as Anastasia washed her face. Felix, who waited outside, sat on a bed while waiting for her to get out.


    She looked in the mirror and lifted up her apple-red bangs, revealing the white roots underneath.


    With a deep sigh, she turned off the water.


    As she wiped her face with a towel, Chief Vivian¡¯s voice echoed in her head, ¡°Dead, huh? Disappointing.¡± The old woman placed the documents on the table, ¡°They were under your protection, and yet¡­¡±


    ¡°In my eyes, you¡¯ve already reached the peak of what your body can normally do, but you¡¯re an esper. It¡¯s been seven years since you¡¯ve been one.¡± Anastasia''s voice echoed out of the bathroom.


    ¡°Maybe you should take a rest.¡± Felix responded as she walked out shirtless, wearing only a violet bra as she wiped her face with a towel.


    His face turned slightly red at the sight of her body, but looked away.


    She looked at him with both eyes, her burn scar in full view, ¡°You were learning step by step. Very steadily, but that¡¯s not enough. You¡¯re expected to be the most powerful among all of us. Maybe it¡¯s because you¡¯re so powerful that you can¡¯t control it.¡±


    He lowered his gaze to the ground and twiddled his fingers, the weight of expectation grew heavier on his shoulders, ¡°I see¡­ I¡¯m sorry I¡¯m taking so long, thank you for putting up with me.¡±


    She sighed, ¡°The Director¡¯s patience has worn thin, and so has mine. So I¡¯ll have you learn the way I did.¡±


    ¡°Hm?¡± He looked up.


    ¡°Aura¡­ aura is defined by who you are¡­¡± The red-haired woman raised her arm. A bright orange flame then manifested from her body.


    Not knowing how to respond, he simply muttered, ¡°Right.¡±


    ¡°Your next lesson begins now. Gripping.¡±


    He raised his eyebrows in response. Suddenly, the orange glow emanated over his body.


    ¡°I learned how to use my aura when I was near the brink of death, so¡­¡±


    Felix was lifted into the air like a toy. His body tightened more and more, as if he was being crushed by the pressure.


    ¡°W-wait¡ª Gah, GRRAAAAKKHH¡­¡±


    ¡°You said you wanted to be number one, didn¡¯t you? At this rate, you won¡¯t even reach rank three!¡±


    ¡°H-hurkkk¡­ Heeeeee!¡± Felix wheezed. He was being choked in the air by a transparent, fiery force.


    ¡°Back then, you might¡¯ve gotten to first rank through strength and skills alone, but now those can only get you so far. Cybernetics, nano-machines, and bio-armors, continue to progress both in and out of the agency! This has become a brand-new playing field entirely, and who knows what else they¡¯re developing out there!¡±


    The volume of her voice grew larger as her frustrations erupted. ¡°Rival corporations are closing in. The CIA is becoming impatient. And a very dangerous terrorist group is reforming; with weapons we have never seen! And because you¡­ because failed to stop them, we lost¡­¡± The faces of Rico and Kaitlin once again flashed in her eyes.


    She grit her teeth and yelled, ¡°People died¡­ because you weren¡¯t able to kill one terrorist! Do you realize that?!¡±


    ¡°I¡ª I¡­ do¡­ realize that¡­ Kh-kaaah!!¡± The grip on his throat grew tighter.


    ¡°Do you?!¡± She pulled her arm back, dragging him close, then slammed his body against the wall, ¡°What happens when someone dies on the battlefield all because you couldn¡¯t control your powers? What happens if you couldn¡¯t control it and kill them yourself?!¡±


    Felix¡¯s eyes began to glow bright, and streams of blue electricity began to spring out of his body. Red, veiny marks could be seen forming from his skin, coiling all over him.


    Her glare tightened, ¡°So when will you learn? When everyone else has died?! When you¡¯ve died?!¡±


    ¡°ARRGGHHHHH!¡±


    As she said those words, Luna¡¯s face suddenly flashed in his eyes. The windows shattered, and everything in the room had been crushed. A burst of blue light tore through the room, slamming Anastasia against the hard wall.


    And yet ¡ª


    Felix had remained mid-air, her psychic grip did not dissipate, and remained tight around his throat.


    ¡°Good. You¡¯re getting there. Just a little more.¡± She shouted as she got back up, her arm covered in wounds. ¡°Come on, show me you can make it! Bring your ambition to the surface! Show me why you¡¯re the strongest! Why you¡¯re the foundation of us all!¡±


    The door suddenly slammed open as the red-eyed woman heard Felix¡¯s scream, ¡°What¡¯s going on?!¡±


    Anastasia turned her orange eyes towards Isabelle, and answered bluntly, ¡°Training.¡±


    ¡°You call this training?!¡± She looked at Felix being choked in the air, struggling to breathe.


    ¡°I-I¡­ GAAHKK!!¡±


    ¡°If you can only use your power when you go berserk, then you might as well not be using it at all!¡± Anastasia yelled.


    ¡°Stop, you¡¯re going too far!¡± Isabelle shouted as she grabbed the red-haired woman¡¯s arm.


    ¡°He¡¯s my student, he chose to learn under me. And he will learn the way I teach him!¡± Anastasia pulled back her arm from the silver-haired woman.


    Reaching a boiling point, Isabelle¡¯s eyebrows furrowed, ¡°I can¡¯t accept this.¡±


    ¡°Wh-what are you¡ª?¡±


    Isabelle¡¯s aura flared up, dyeing the room in a crystalline shade of crimson and devouring the sunset colored aura.


    The flash of red destroyed the amber light, and Anastasia slammed against the wall a second time. With her psychic choke hold broken, Felix fell to the ground and broke into a fit of coughing, and Isabelle instinctively moving to his aide. She placed her hand on his head, caressing it.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡± She asked.


    ¡°Thank you, Isabelle¡­ but¡­ she¡¯s right, I need to learn. I have to be¡­ better.¡± Were the last words he uttered before immediately losing consciousness.


    ¡°But¡­ this isn¡¯t learning¡­¡± Isabelle mumbled.


    ¡°What a good mindset my pupil has.¡± Anastasia said as she clung to the walls and approached the two of them, ¡°We¡¯ll resume training tomorrow.¡±


    Isabelle sighed and picked up the unconscious man over her shoulder, and headed out of the pale white room. But before she left, she gave a sharp glare at the drunk woman, ¡°Don¡¯t do that again.¡±


    Anastasia responded with a cold stare and watched Isabelle carry off her student.


    As the metal door automatically shut, she plopped down onto her bed, and a tear formed in her scar-less eye.


    ~

 Cogs in the Machine part 1

    Chapter 24


    Cogs in the Machine


    Morning arrived with the bathroom was filled with the sounds of guttural retching.


    ¡°Urgk¡­¡± Anastasia grumbled as she clutched the edges of the toilet bowl.


    The sound of flushing water followed.


    Her arms trembled as she climbed up the sink.


    She opened a small yellow bottle and popped one of the pills into her mouth.


    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have¡­ had so much... to drink last night.¡± She muttered in a hoarse voice, staring into her reflection, and her reflection stared back.


    In front of her stood a woman with glowing, orange eyes and apple-red hair. She pressed her fingers over the large burn scar on her left eye with an irritated expression, then lifted up her bangs, seeing the white roots of her hair.


    With a wooden click, she opened up the drawer behind her mirror, and looked at a dye bottle filled with dark-red liquid. But as she was about to reach for it, her fingers curled, ¡°Not yet¡­¡±


    Cold water splashed against her face, waking her up.


    Flashes of the previous night surfaced in her mind ¡ª Her screams, Felix hovering above the ground, suffocated by her orange energy.


    She looked at her palm. The feeling of her aura pressing against his throat was the same as having choked him herself.


    Anastasia slipped to her knees and covered her face with her two palms.


    ¡°Oh god¡­ why did I do that to him? What if he doesn¡¯t come back for training later? What if he hates me? I don¡¯t want my own student to hate me¡­¡± She worriedly whimpered. ¡°Ahh, blyat.¡±


    Pulling herself together, her fingers softly brushed against the burnt red skin over her left eye, before promptly covering it with her eyepatch.


    Out in the hallway, a girl with maroon hair waved at her, accompanied by a woman clad in teal armor similar to Carol¡¯s.


    ¡°Yo, Anya!¡± The girl with maroon hair greeted.


    ¡°Good¡­ good morning.¡± Anastasia smiled softly before quickly covering her mouth.


    ¡°Are you okay?¡±  The girl titled her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m, I¡¯m fine Saya¡­ J-just a bit of a hangover. Just came back from your mission?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, was gonna drop off some documents to Chief Vivian for a bit. Wanna grab breakfast?¡±


    ¡°You go on ahead, I just finished eating.¡± She shook her head, ¡°Besides, I have to go train.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ Busy training the black cat? See you later, then.¡± Saya waved and began walking ahead.


    ¡°That¡¯s Anastasia Frost? She looks like a wreck.¡± The armored girl replied.


    ¡°Sheila, don¡¯t be mean.¡± Saya replied to her as they walked away.


    Anastasia headed to the door, she swallowed before reaching for the knob. As it creaked open, she saw that Felix was just sitting there fidgeting with a pen between his hands, ¡°Y-you¡¯re early.¡± She greeted.


    If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    He put down the pen and gave her a determined gaze, ¡°Good morning.¡±


    ¡°So, then¡­ let¡¯s get started.¡± She replied back in her cold, professional tone.


    *


    Gunfire echoed through the training room as Felix darted around, narrowly dodging most of the rubber bullets. A few still struck his limbs, grazing him as he slowly adapted.


    Few of the rubber bullets still struck his limbs, narrowly grazing him as he slowly adapted.


    ¡°You were taught to avoid bullets by watching where the gun is aimed,¡± Anastasia called out, aiming her firearm above, ¡°But what happens when you¡¯re in total darkness?¡±


    She fired multiple rubber bullets into the air, which scattered to all the lights in the room.


    With a shatter, darkness filled the room. Felix held in his breath and moved silently, his steps barely audible.


    ¡°Your eyes are a dead giveaway!¡± She shouted, her own eye glowing like an ember.


    ¡°Stop, ow! wait! Ow!¡± He yelped as he got shot repeatedly with rubber bullets.


    ¡°I said stop!¡± From his hand, a stream of electricity, then a burst of psychic energy. The bullets stopped in his palm as it burned with blue haze, illuminating the darkness.


    Anastasia lowered her rifle and was all ears, ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I was actually thinking about last night¡­¡±


    ¡°Look¡­ about what I did¡ª¡±


    ¡°Not that¡­ I was wondering. Is it possible to stop a person¡¯s movements the same way I stop bullets?¡± He asked as he pointed to the rubber bullet in his hands.


    Anastasia exhaled, relieved but still wary, ¡°You mean like keeping people locked in place?¡±


    Felix nodded.


    ¡°It is, but it¡¯s different from what I um¡­ what I did last night¡­ It takes too much aura. It¡¯s different from moving your own body with psychic power. Stopping someone else means wrapping their body in aura and holding them still.¡±


    ¡°Then¡­ then that means¡­¡± Felix remembered his spar against Maria, ¡°Can you give me a demonstration?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re gonna need to turn off your aura.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    He did as instructed.


    Anastasia nodded and raised her guard in response. Felix threw a slow strike towards her, only to find his arm being enveloped in a bright orange haze.


    The bright aura quickly enveloped his entire body, rendering him immobile.


    Felix stood frozen. He tried to pull back his arm, but it felt like a hundred hands gripped it in place. He tried to push forward, and but his fist was pushed back.


    ¡°Like that?¡±


    He exhaled, ¡°Yeah, like that.¡±


    ¡°Keeping someone locked in place is different from just shoving them or lifting them in the air.¡±


    ¡°I understand.¡± He responded.


    The orange haze around his body dispersed.


    She left an orange flame burning in her fist, illuminating the room just enough to see. And she saw him with a puzzled expression, with his hand on his chin.


    ¡°Is something wrong?¡±


    ¡°That felt completely different.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°It just feels like being submerged in water. I couldn¡¯t move, but¡­ I can still feel my body in control.¡± A blue flame emanated from his hand, ¡°But when I was up against Maria, I¡ª ¡±


    ¡°Hurk¡­ urgh.¡± Anastasia clutched her mouth, ¡°I think we should¡­ skip training for today.¡±


    The two exited the room.


    ¡°I asked Murphy to make you some herbal tea. Should help with your hangover.¡± Felix said with two mugs in his hands, before sitting beside her.


    ¡°You could tell?¡± She asked in an embarrassed tone.


    ¡°The smell of alcohol was all over you since last night, so yeah¡­ I could tell.¡± He replied as he sipped from his coffee.


    She sipped her tea, ¡°Look¡­ I¡¯m sorry about last night. I¡¯ve had some time to cool my head, and to tell you the truth¡­ Two of my men died recently on a mission. My team was pinned down, and I ran out of energy protecting everyone. One second, they all stood by my side, and in the blink of an eye... they were a puddle. I guess I lashed out on you because of it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem. Nothing you said was wrong, and I can¡¯t imagine how that could have felt like.¡± He paused, remembering how Maria¡¯s blood splattered down his face, ¡°Well¡­ maybe I can. Just a bit. It¡¯s just that I can¡¯t control it yet. I don¡¯t want you to think that I¡¯m not trying my best.¡±


    Anastasia flattened her lips, not having the heart to tell him about who died. She then chopped him on the head and showed a relieved smile.


    ¡°Ow.¡±


    ¡°My adorable little pupil is worried. You¡¯re learning much faster than I did, so I¡¯m glad. Truth be told, I¡¯m actually a little jealous of the others. They learned how to effectively use their powers in just a few months.¡±


    ¡°No one had to teach you.¡±


    ¡°True. Still. I shouldn¡¯t have done what I did.¡±


    ¡°Maybe you could go a little easier on me next time.¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ll try not to almost kill you next time. Hopefully you won¡¯t have to learn the way I did.¡± She chuckled as she got up and stretched out her arms, her face then immediately turning green again.


    ¡°Anastasia¡­¡±


    ¡°Call me Anya¡­¡± She pushed the bile down her throat, ¡°Actually, because you chose me to be your mentor, address me as Anya-sensei.¡±


    ¡°Okay¡­ Thank you for putting up with me, Anya-sensei.¡± Felix replied with a smile.


    ¡°Eh¡­ was that not funny?¡± Anastasia put her hand over her head and mumbled to herself. ¡°Am I out of touch?¡±


    The two of them look as Murphy walked up to them, ¡°Miss Anastasia, Sir Felix. Chief Vivian summons you.¡±


    ~

 Cogs in the Machine part 2

    Screams tore through the sterile white room, along with the sound of bones and flesh crumpling together. The air was sharp with the mix of antiseptic and burning flesh.


    The squelch of blood, tears, sweat, and saliva dripped out of a woman that was strapped to the table.


    Around her was an array of syringes, metal tools, and biometric monitors beeped in steady rhythm.


    ¡°Yliaster.¡± A vial said, filled with a glowing, prismatic liquid.


    ¡°Congratulations on surviving the coin toss, Miss Sovandary.¡± Professor Levi spoke with a calm, pleasant voice, ¡°You are now the ninth survivor of Batch Gamma.¡±


    She looked at him, her gaze fuzzy, unable to focus.


    ¡°Would you like to continue to the second stage?¡± His voice grew excited.


    ¡°No, no, no. Please. God, no¡­¡± She sobbed. Steam rose from her skin, from her red-hot flesh, glowing, as if there was light inside her.


    ¡°Still conscious enough to respond? What a shame, you would have had lovely orange eyes.¡± He sighed, removing her bindings, ¡°Bring in the next subject.¡±


    Suddenly, her mouth filled with bile. Unable to stop herself, she retched, only for the professor to shove a bucket against her face.


    ¡°Oh, disgusting¡­¡± The professor took a step back, hearing the sound of her filling up the bucket, ¡°So, how many volunteers left? Three?¡±


    The doors swung open, and four doctors rushed in with an operating table. On it was the cold, unresponsive body with frizzy orange hair.


    ¡°Clear the room.¡± An older, stubby doctor walked in, one with white hair and a thick beard.


    ¡°Professor Tetsuya?¡± The younger professor greeted, tilting his head.


    Without a moment of hesitation, all of the staff that were present immediately evacuated, dragging along the newest esper, Sovandary, with them.


    Only Levi had remained. His gaze turned to the body on the table, ¡°Is this Kaitlin? Her arm¡­¡±


    He gazed at the twisted, tangled mess of fingers and flesh.


    Professor Tetsuya sighed deeply, putting on gloves and a face mask, ¡°She did not regenerate properly. It healed her more drastic wounds.¡±


    ¡°So it focused too much energy on all the wrong places, while the smaller ones did her in? What a shame. She was one of Batch Gamma¡¯s first successes¡­¡±


    The old professor then went over the trays of surgical tools.


    ¡°I told the Director not to allow her in the field yet¡­¡± He grumbled, staring at the vial with the glowing liquid. It shined with a prismatic life, and almost appeared to be pulsing.


    Professor Levi¡¯s hands went over and touched the dead woman¡¯s shoulder, gently tracing down to her hands.


    ¡°Even after a week, rigor mortis hasn¡¯t set in¡­¡± The young professor murmured, ¡°The beauty of your work is truly something to behold, Professor Tetsuya¡­¡± He could not help but praise the old doctor.


    Professor Tetsuya wiped a tear from his eye and exhaled softly. His hands trembled as he picked up a trephine, ¡°Please leave the room, Levi.¡±


    One of the four doctors then drew a circle on the center of the dead woman¡¯s forehead.


    With a cold, clinical tone, he said, ¡°Commence operation, Yliaster extraction.¡±


    *


    As Felix and Anastasia entered Chief Vivian¡¯s office, there were already four other people inside besides the chief.


    Isabelle, who was looking nervously at the cards in her hand, Nero and Grant who sneered at one another. Maria, whose legs were on top of the chair beside her, threw two queens on the pile of cards in the middle of the table.


    ¡°Ah, Anya. How¡¯s the hangover?¡± Chief said as Anastasia walked into the room.


    ¡°¡­ getting better.¡± Anastasia looked to the side, avoiding the Chief¡¯s gaze.


    ¡°I see Murphy¡¯s tea worked wonders. Saya told me it happened again.¡±


    Felix glanced over Anastasia while she rolled her eye.


    ¡°Now that you¡¯re all here, I could¡ª¡±


    Isabelle raised her hand, ¡°Um¡­ where¡¯s David?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s out on a mission in Siberia.¡± Chief answered nonchalantly.


    Felix placed his hand on his hip, ¡°Of course, he is.¡±


    Anastasia raised her open palm, and all of their playing cards suddenly radiated with an amber glow. They all flew into her palm, forming a neat and orderly deck.


    Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    Maria pouted.


    ¡°Hey!¡± Isabelle yelled out.


    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter, I was winning.¡± Nero boasted.


    ¡°Haha, no you weren¡¯t.¡± Grant replied.


    Anastasia then looked at the chief, ¡°So then, the mission?¡±


    ¡°The mission is picking up after the one you failed. A siege of Henry Dahmer¡¯s Mansion. Maria?¡± She looked over at the dark-haired woman with expectations.


    From her chair, Maria cracked her fingers and conjured up a holographic interface in her hands, which she spread out to the rest of them with a wide gesture.


    ¡°Henry Dahmer. One of the ten crime lords at the top of our list. A mafia don that owes a debt of five and a half billion in tax evasions and insurance frauds, and hides his money in faux companies which makes them out of reach. He¡¯s also suspected of other crimes such as poaching, animal cruelty and illegal experimentation.¡± The Chief explained.


    ¡°So, do you have any plans, layouts, staff schedules, any inside people we can count on. Eliminate as many unknown variables as you can.¡± Grant commented as he scrolled through the screens.


    ¡°Unfortunately, no. At the moment one of a few of our robins are watching it from a distance, but they have nothing in terms of locations. Watching who comes in and comes out, but after the previous attempt, it appears they¡¯ve doubled down on their defenses.¡± Chief answered.


    ¡°Anastasia, as senior officer, you will lead the team on this mission.¡±


    ¡°Team, sir? We¡¯re all working as a single unit?¡± Anastasia asked.


    ¡°Correct. Spearhead the Esper Division. I¡¯m counting on you to make sure that they all make it back safely. You will be accompanied by agent Nice and agent Dreadnaught. You¡¯re set to leave in four hours.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    ¡°And keep your guard up. It¡¯s possible that one of the Jackal¡¯s Fang might be there unexpectedly.¡± The chief shrugged.


    ¡°Weren¡¯t most of them imprisoned?¡± Nero pointed out with a hint of arrogance to his tone.


    ¡°They¡¯re¡­¡± Felix¡¯s eyes narrowed, ¡°Reforming¡­¡±


    ¡°Eh¡­ eh?¡± Isabelle blurted out, startled by what Felix just said.


    Grant¡¯s eyes filled with fury, a burning red rage simmered around his body until Nero slapped the back of his head, causing it to quickly disperse, ¡°Don¡¯t waste your aura. Besides, what¡¯s a terrorist gonna do?¡± The blond man scoffed.


    ¡°They¡¯re¡­ the ones who caused the Fallen Sun catastrophe, aren¡¯t they?¡± The silver-haired woman gulped.


    ¡°On his last mission, Felix encountered an individual who claimed to be a new member, using a weaponized drones and apparently, a laser.¡± The Chief explained.


    ¡°In terms of strength and combat prowess, one of them is at the level of the top ten, and the only difference is that they have no regard for civilians or collateral. I advise you not to take them lightly.¡± Grant answered with furrowed eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s exactly as Grant says.¡± The chief said as she pulled out a cigarette from a small metal case. ¡°Normally we wouldn¡¯t even consider allowing you lot to go out with powers you can¡¯t control yet, but our sponsors have been getting very nippy waiting for results.¡±


    ¡°Right¡­¡± Felix blurted out.


    ¡°And the Matrix Key?¡± Maria asked.


    ¡°We don¡¯t know, we haven¡¯t received anything from our sources yet, but the possibility is always there.¡± The Chief answered, ¡°Now go and prepare. Good luck, and leave nothing to chance.¡±


    As all of them exited the chief¡¯s office, Grant walked over to Felix and began to talk, ¡°It says here that the guards shift every six hours. So I think that we should¡ª¡±


    Maria suddenly grabbed him by the shoulder, as if to keep him from coming closer to Felix, ¡°Grant. Word of advice. Nothing ever comes according to plan.¡±


    ¡°But we should at least¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hello there!¡± All of their eyes were drawn towards the two men walking up to them from the corridor. A man with blond hair and a thick mustache, carrying a cardboard box, and a taller, dark skinned man with dreadlocks beside him.


    ¡°You must be agents Nice and Dreadnought.¡± Maria greeted with a bright smile.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, I¡¯m Agent Nice to meet you, how do you do?¡± The blond, bearded man jokingly extended his hand.


    ¡°Nice. Please don¡¯t embarrass us.¡± The man beside grumbled, pinching his forehead.


    ¡°Ahehe¡­ you must be Agent Dreadnought?¡± Isabelle awkwardly laughed.


    ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± The man with dreadlocks answered.


    ¡°So, what¡¯s in the box you¡¯ve got there?¡± Nero asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m glad you asked, because I brought you all donuts! Please, take some!¡± Nice announced as he presented a box full of donuts to them.


    ¡°Oh, thank you.¡± Isabelle replied. The three red-eyed espers took from the box.


    ¡°I figured since we were working together, I should get you all something.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t believe him. He bought those for himself. He just wanted an excuse to buy them.¡± Dreadnought revealed.


    He looked at his partner and confessed, ¡°Hey! They were on sale, okay?¡±


    ¡°Regardless, they¡¯re appreciated.¡± Grant chimed in as he took one.


    Dreadnought then invaded Grant¡¯s personal space and inspected his face with one eye widened and the other eye closed, ¡°So, it¡¯s true. Your eyes really do glow.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s amazing.¡± Nice added.


    Grant shrugged off the compliment as he bit into the snack he was given. ¡°Now this. This donut is what¡¯s amazing.¡±


    The three red-eyed espers conversed with the two other agents, enjoying the sugary gift.


    ¡°I read your report on your first mission¡­ it sounds like an absolute mess.¡± Anastasia remarked.


    ¡°Nothing was the same from the blueprints we were given, and we had no escape routes. Everything was completely improvised.¡± Felix explained.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised you¡¯re alive. That¡¯s impressive.¡± She praised him as they walked over to where the other three were. As they reached them, however, they could only hear Nero¡¯s awkward disbelief.


    ¡°Let me get this straight, your name... is seriously... Chad Johnson.¡± Nero stated in indignation while handing Anastasia a donut.


    ¡°That¡¯s right. It used to be Chad Anderson, but I had my last name legally changed before¡­ you know¡­ becoming one of the agency¡¯s dogs.¡± Nice replied, scratching his yellow beard.


    ¡°Legally changed. So it¡¯s not an alias. At all?¡± Grant asked.


    ¡°Yup.¡±


    Nero, Grant and Maria stared in disgust.


    Dreadnought chopped Nice on the head, ¡°And I always hated him because of it.¡±


    ¡°Sucks to be you, partner.¡± He responded as he lifted Dreadnought¡¯s hand off his head.


    ¡°Are you proud of yourself?¡±


    ¡°I will never not be.¡± Nice smirked.


    ¡°I don¡¯t get¡ª¡± Felix chimed in.


    ¡°JOHNSON MEANS DICK, FELIX. JOHNSON MEANS DICK.¡± Maria yelled in response.


    All of them were slightly startled by Maria¡¯s sudden shout, but Nero deflated the tension as he turned his head to the partners, asking, ¡°Can I have another donut?¡±


    ¡°Oh, y-yeah¡­¡± Nice awkwardly handed him the box.


    ¡°So then you all must be agents Venom, Vermillion, Tundra, Blue Phantom, and Crimson¡ª¡± Dreadnought enumerated them one by one.


    ¡°Yes, that¡¯s us.¡± Nero immediately cut them short.


    ¡°Wait, Vermillion? You¡¯re the guy who caught Lewis Shaw?¡± Felix glanced over to


    ¡°I am¡­ I was eavesdropping on you about a month ago. And you almost saw me.¡± Grant admitted with a nervous laugh.


    ¡°And what about you, it says your name is Isabelle, but you didn¡¯t put in a codename.¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t decided on one yet, actually.¡± The silver-haired young woman answered.


    ¡°Well, since you¡¯re all color coded already, why not call you Red or White?¡± Nice suggested.


    ¡°Nocturne¡­ might be nice.¡± Felix muttered to himself, to which Maria leered in response.


    Isabelle placed her index finger on her chin and replied, ¡°I¡¯ll¡­ think about it.¡±


    ¡°Well we have to call you something, do you really wanna go with your real name?¡± Dreadnought asked.


    They all glanced over to her, making her feel like she was under a spotlight.


    ¡°I guess I¡¯ll just go with Red for now.¡± She shrugged.


    ¡°Sounds good, Nice and I still need to prepare. Let¡¯s meet back after an hour.¡± Dreadnought said.


    ¡°Right.¡± Anastasia replied.


    ~