Starlight Night Eve

A new day began, with Eve being glum about work, but the weekend came. Eve was free from any work-pressure. After Grey and Oracle's chat, Grey was quiet for a moment, but got the courage to ask Eve to go out together, for her weekend plans. He asked, giving the excuse that they should go out to get supplies. Also not have any rebels watching her from the shadows, again.

Eve's cheerful and immediate reply was unexpected to Grey, after she was so quiet before. But, when the weekend came, he realized she missed going out with 'everyone', Sam included. "Come ON, Grey! It'll be fine! Humans are FAR more dangerous than tigers!..." Eve ran out the apartments, with Sameer cloaked, and trotting along side her. She called out to Grey, giddily walking away with Sam, as Grey watched dumbfounded.

Even if she had Sameer cloaked, she wasn't, however. She acted so loud and suspicious, no wonder she was easy for rebels to spot. Grey tries to interfere, walking towards her, waving his arms in disarray. "I know Sam is docile, but I don't really suggest thi-!?"

Eve quickly grabs Grey's hand as he gets close. Not exactly what he expected, but he was immediately pulled by her, to keep up. Now, they were out of the apartments, and onto the busy streets, they were leading to the park, Eve's favorite place.

Eve giggles, pulling Grey's arm lightly along as the walk. "He's a sweet cinnamon bun, and would protect me if something happens! Sam will be only to intimidate, if our 'Shadow' problem appears again... And, Sameer needs to go out more. He deserves fun days out too!"

Eve let go, Grey immediately noticed and crossed his arms, a little bummed out. He thinks, not liking any ideas Eve might be thinking of. "Hmpth... I don't like the idea of Sam getting angry in public..."

Eve couldn't disagree, especially since Grey's seen Sameer riled up. She giggles at the other agent's concern. "It's better he's here! We still need to enjoy our time, since we're not in danger now. Think of it as like the last time we all went out! He's camouflaged, so don't worry! It'll be fun!"

Grey wasn't as thrilled as Eve was. He presses his temples with fingers, trying to calm himself. "Sigh... Thank god I came with you two. Can't trust you together by yourselves when it's bloody rush hour! It's crowded!" He snapped, panning around, as he's having to move accordingly to not bump into anyone.

It was a busy day, as any weekend afternoon was. Having random people try to get out of Sam's way might be bumping into the agents more. Grey huffs again, trying to collect himself. "Why the park first?"

It made it seem more like a personal day out, then for getting stuff for the mission. Not that Grey didn't mind, but it made him eerily nervous.

Eve giggles, and answers, as expected of her to say. "Why not? Maybe there's something around the square. Plus, it's fun going to the park!"

Grey shakes his head at his silly partner. He muttered under his breath. "Sigh, not like you don't go often enough." He wasn't bored of the park, but he's seen it so many times just passing by. He's surprised Eve doesn't seem to tire from things she likes.

Eve giggles as she replies. "And, I'll keep going often, hehe!" She answered to confirm, and toy with the workaholic of the two agents.

After crowding in a sea of people commuting, they make it to the park. Eve and Sam start running off, like they usually do. Grey tries to follow quickly behind. Eve runs into the grass, with Sam following fast. She turns quickly and starts chasing and play-fighting him, and vice versa.

Eve eventually runs around the long stretch of grass, and slides down a small hill while hugging Sam, laughing blissfully as they roll down. Eve gets up and looks around, not seeing Grey around. They walk to the nearest sidewalk to look around, but Eve gets distracted at the sight of bouquets arranged so beautifully at a flower stand.

Eve and Sameer both go to look at the flowers, she crouches down to look at a few with a closer eye. "Are you admiring flowers again? You always look so cute when you do..." A familiar, and annoying, voice called from behind Eve.

Eve knew that voice, somehow she knew she'd hear it again. "YOU!!" Eve looks up, now kneeling on one leg and pointing at him shocked. Shadow was back. Sameer's hairs start to stick up. He growls at the stranger that has his friend so upset.

Shadow waves, and with a big goofy smile, he speaks. "Hey~! Going to keep responding like that, everytime we meet? It's Shadow, remember me?! I see you've brought your tiger friend... Heh, that's perfect actually. I was just hangin' with some friends who'd love to meet you two!" He boomed in a hearty, blissful tone.

Eve is surprised, and quickly gets up. "Who? If they're from your side, I'd want to know now, since I'm off duty..." She slightly backs away. Being able to understand the situation, Sam looked over at her worried, then at Shadow with a threatening glare.

Shadow scratches his head, hair tied but shifts under his large hands. "Heh, well, they're from the alliance I'm in... They're actually pretty cool people. You could easily talk to them, I'm sure...."

Shadow grabs Eve's arm and tugs lightly on Eve's blazer sleeve, dragging her a bit to the direction he was heading towards. "C'mon! They're probably not far, I lose them a lot, heh!"

"... Sam." Eve grabs Shadow's hold on her, spinning him around, and twists his arm so that he's hunched, with a hand behind his back that Eve was securing. As Shadow looked up, Sameer was in mid-pounce, toppling onto him.

Eve backs away, and Shadow falls, loudly, with all the weight of him and a fully-grown tiger combined. The instant, caught the wind from Shadow, and made his sunglasses fly off. "Oof- I- I'm sorry!" The rebel pleaded, nervously looking around after being knocked down suddenly.

Sameer puts all his weight on Shadow, and sits on him. He was pinning the rebel, and not acting aggressive as Grey stressed not to. Eve sees his glasses had fallen off and he tries to shimmy out to put them back on. She was reminded of his interesting eyes, as they were wide in worry but like a dark, soulless abyss. To no avail, he closes his eyes and whimpers for a moment. He acts defeated, when suddenly he feels his shades being placed back in the bridge of his nose, he looks up.

Eve sighs, "I guess it's wise to keep those glasses on you in public. I didn't put camouflage on you, or myself..."

Shadow tries to act cool, even with a ferocious tiger pinning him down. "Thanks~. Sorry again 'bout that. Wasn't going to force you. You could say no. C- could you also get your tiger off me?"

Eve looks down at the two. She pours her lips and glares at the rebel. "... I don't want to though.You're both fine where you are."

"Oh my god! MAESTRO!!" Eve spins her body around, as Grey is bonding up to her. He finally caught up, at the best, or worst time.

"SETH!! Oh no!! What's going on?!" Both Eve and now Grey turn to people rushing up to Shadow. "Eek-!! A tiger!!" A woman shrieks and jumps back, suddenly realizing it was on top of Shadow. She could see Sameer, now that she couldn't help ignore what was happening.

Another woman sees it too now, and comments. "Oh jeez, it's angry too!" She says, with a male beside her also stop and stares. All three must be some of Shadow's people.

Grey holds a hand to his face, wiping it tiredly. "Sigh... told you..." He knew this wouldn't go so well.

Eve waves her arms frantically. "It's alright everyone, he won't hurt your friend. He was just getting this man away from me, because he was too close, heh." She awkwardly waved her hands.

"Oh, so YOU must be the chick... Huh, you really DO got a tiger...." A man points to Eve and Sameer. Shadow must have talked about her to others. That may or may not be good, but regardless, informed about Eve's furry friend.

Eve stares at the rebel under Sameer. She turns back at the strangers she's never met, for answers. "Um... Tell me, what does he say about me?"

A lady looks at Eve, trying to recognize her from where exactly, but she already knows this is the girl Shadow must talk often about. "It's more like 'act'... He gets a big, dumb grin whenever he's thinking about you. He goes into his room talking about watching videos of his 'cute singer-friend'."

Shadow childishly whines. "Jeez, this is so frickin' embarrassing, and I can't even get up to defend myself~..." He struggles under Sam's weight.

"Can't you just disappear and reappear out?" The other man said, shaking his head confused.

Eve rolls her eyes and looks back at the strange woman who was first afraid. She had beautifully long and braided, vibrant red hair. Her eyes were a neon yellow, very vibrant as well. Even with her bright appearance, Eve looks at them with a raised brow. "More like stalking this 'singer'... He's caused me so much trouble already, and I was hoping he wouldn't repeat his mistakes..."

Shadow whales loudly, trying to plead his case from the ground. "I didn't stalk you- I was just searching you up your channel!"

Eve whips her head back to Shadow, giving him an unamused scowl. "I don't recall mentioning my channel, OR what I did for a living before! You were looking up information about me!"

Shadow shook his head wildly, trying to defend himself. "N- not for anything bad! Just my own curiosity, if anything!"

Grey puffs out his chest as he huffs annoyed and crosses his arms tightly. "Tch... This guy was harassing my coworker. It was NOT okay to do that..."

Shadow recognized Grey as the one from the alley that seemed close with Eve, in their first encounter. At the moment Grey said it harassment, Shadow couldn't deny his actions, if that's what Eve thought herself too. "Eh...! S-sorry man, a-and Eve." He tried to apologize, whether deserving it, or not.

Grey growls, threateningly as he snaps at the rebel. "DON'T SAY HER-"

Eve quickly leans over to Grey, tugging on his sleeve. "Grey! I think it's fine, we're in public and I'm more recognized for my music than my other work... Let's just try to be calm, and get out of here."

Grey nods and speaks in a hush tone, agreeing. "Good thinking... Starlight." As if Grey was so used to agent names, which being the workaholic he was, he did. Using aliases while talking to rebels was still good, and he personally didn't want others using his partner's real name.

As the agents usher Sameer to get off of the strange man so they could all three leave, Shadow jumps up and bursts out speaking. "W- wait! I'm sorry 'bout this... How about I try to make it up to both of you! Maybe the tiger too! Are you out for groceries again? I'll pay!"

"Staaar...." Grey groans irritatedly, looking back at Eve. He didn't want her to even reconsider staying. The fact that she stopped to listen to the rebel for a second frustrated him, but his anger was only directed at Shadow.

Although Grey didn't want Eve to continue conversing, she waves her hands to calm everyone. "Hey, hey... Don't start getting any ideas before you hear what I have to say first."  She said.

Eve points at Grey and then Shadow. "Both you AND you, I have told I want to make a peaceful pack to listen to both sides! I am an advocate of the people who still live healthy and non-secretive lives elsewhere! Where powers are appreciated! Not feared! I do not know both stories here, and I must, if I want to even be here in the first place!"

Eve looks around at all the new and familiar faces. She smiles, with eyes wide as dazzling sapphire gems. Her voice held a lot of confidence, over her innocent smile. "I got everyone's attention, yes? Let's try to act calm, we do not want a fight in public. I want to stand for peace. We can just go our separate ways and-"

Before they leave, Shadow runs in front of them, and blurts out, gaining their attention. "But! Let's all hangout! You can meet some of my friends from MY side and all~. And um..."

Shadow scooted a bit and shuffled over to Agent Grey, rubbing his head. "Hey... I'm sorry about that time in the alley. Ya' just spooked me, heh. I'm sorry if I hurt you, but you sure have me a good wallop..." He tries to make light of the situation, but sweats. Grey seemed really intimidating, even if Shadow was taller, and more muscular than him.

Grey gets in close. Although shorter, he's still able to put a hands on the other man's shoulder, leaning in. Eyes glowing, and scowling as he gives Shadow a mean side-eye, and whispers, "Don't you dare lay another hand on my partner, again...." Grey walks past to space himself out between Eve and the rebels.

"Y- yussir..." Shadow deflates and hunches over. He held in his breath when Grey spoke, he almost forgot to breathe afterwards.

Shadow quickly spins around and goes back to his bumbling self. "So... Cough! Why don't I introduce everyone. There's Camellia, Michie, and the one by your tiger friend is Emma. Her power is, she can talk to animals. Thought I would be nice, if you would've happened to have brought Sam with you. I didn't know you'd bring your coworker too, that's good though, heh..."

Emma, who had dark, curly green hair, sitting beside Sameer, gawks up at Shadow. "You didn't invite me here to hangout with you? Seriously dude?!"

Shadow shakes his hands spastically. "What? No, heh! I wanted to hangout, I didn't know we'd bump into each other right away. But I just wanted for you two- or three to meet!" He pets Sam's head. Sam growls at him, and Shadow retreats his hand away. He scoots away as Sam keeps growling at him with fiery eyes.

Emma looks over at Shadow, arms crossed. She plainly translates. "He says he'll 'mangle you to bits if you touch Eve again'..."

"N- noted... Also yussir...." He trembles a bit. "You have some 'good' friends, Eve..." He muttered, as he's panicking as his life was on the line if he tried to do anything.

Eve just brushes his existence aside, acting as if she didn't see or hear him. She instead jumps up and clasps the fists together in excitement. "Oh wow~! Can you really understand him?"

Emma nods, "Mhm! It's basically like a whisper I can hear when he growls. He has a very dark and hushed tone. It was kinda scary."

"Um... Sam?" Eve looks a bit frazzled but Sam comes close to comfort her. He looks up, seeing if she needs anything, he tilts his head. "What would you want to say right now."

Sam softly jumps up and does his iconic alien humbles Eve couldn't understand. Hoping this time, maybe someone else could.

Emma nods and relays the message. She smiles at their response. "He clearly said 'there's nothing more I could say, other than I love my friend'. He's got good speech. I don't often hear full sentences- or a lot of sense sometimes."

Eve turns to Sameer, and he licks the side of her face. "Haha! I love you too, bud! You're always there for me..." She rubs Sam's fur for a while, and pats his head after he jumps back down.

Shadow jumps up excitedly, trying to get everyone's attention as he speaks. "So? What's something fun we could all go do first? There's lots of cool sights around here we could visit."

Eve chuckles, unexpectedly amused. She didn't mind a new, personal mission, to find a spot to talk to rebels. "Yeah? I'd really like to sit down and get to know what you guys are like. Doesn't have to be serious, maybe just about yourselves."

Eve walks so that Shadow is to the side of her, rather than him staring directly at her. "I don't really want to know 'that guy' though..." She points a thumb at Shadow, her face and tone however, was as bright as ever. He was both flustered and heartbroken.

"Awe, sure, though I think the tiger might be an issue." Says Michie, who also points to Shadow, who's brooding beside Eve. "... Also, I think my friend's depressed now."

Eve puts another charm on Sameer and then goes to everyone to camouflage them. Even though it was difficult to be seen, Eve ensured her party of misfits could see each other.

Shadow perks up, as he's the last person Eve casted a charm on. "Oh! Did you bless us again or somethin'?"

Eve tools her eyes at Shadow, correcting him. "Again, camouflage. I can't risk any of us seen if we use powers out in public. Please keep it discreet still, the charm can only do so much, heh."

Camellia watches the glimmering on her clothes sink in and disappear in an instant. "Cool." She says looking up. 

Eve nods, and would agree, of course. She then waves a hand to herself, gaining everyone's eyes on her hand movements. "Well, I should introduce myself properly. I am Eve, I am also a singer on the internet, or 'was'. I'm currently with S.O.U to help on some more positive projects! Sameer is my traveling companion and friend! We have gone on many figurative and literal adventures for over a year!" She pans to Sam, whether they were excited to meet him, or not.

Eve looks over at Grey, who was completely silent, and aloofly looking away. She turns to the rebel group, and points behind her, at her partner. "I'll... just say that my coworker isn't very fond of many people. I'm sorry but he's not a bad guy at all! He's been helping me try to do miracles for the agency, heh." She giggled, trying to jest.

Camillia nods, welcoming them normally. "Well, pleasure then."

"Nice to meet you." Emma kneels down and looks over at Sameer. "And, you too!"

Sam shifts his eyes and gives a small murmur of jumbles.

"He sai- ?! Wait, how can he understand us?" Emma does a backtake, not having noticed the obvious difference.

Eve lifts her arms and shrugs. "He might be special, or just super smart. He can understand humans."

Emma looks shocked, as she pans quickly between Sameer and Eve in confusion. "Oh... Wow, I've never met an animal like this. He IS super smart. He can listen and talk to me with ease, almost like a human."

Eve leans over, with a teasing tone, she asks. "So, what did he say~?"

Emma snaps her fingers, waving it off after, now that she understands. "Oh, right! Something about, hoping we all get along."

Eve tilts her head to the side and smiles. They walk till they find a big family restaurant, with lots of seating, and all take a seat. The rebels hug most of a large booth, while the agents sit on the other side, Eve at the end so she can sit beside Sameer, who sat on the floor. 

They all order and wait for food. No one talks much, till Eve piles in when everyone seems calmed down with food in front of them. "So... I want to make peace with both of our sides. I want to learn about what each side wants and abides by. Not now, heh, it's a lot more planning. But, a good way I bond with people is with food!"

"I can't believe we're sitting down with agents, and a tiger, in a restaurant. Some people would be sweating bullets right now." Camilla slowly munched on a fry afterwards, marveling a bit in surprise.

Michie interjects, slumping into his seat exhaustedly. "Says you. I'm honestly still pretty scared. No offense...?" He waves his hands up, as if acting like no threat.

Eve chuckles. "None taken, hehe. I'm a new agent, and I'm an advocate for other users, not involved in any rebels, agency, or even government exactly, for that matter. You can leave if you'd like, but let's just try to be casual, and talk about whatever."

Emma watches Eve. She tilts her head, asking. "So, asking questions is okay?" Mainly asking Eve, since Grey was so quiet next to his partner, permanently brooding.

Eve waves a finger, and smiles kindly, trying to be responsible, for the rebels, and the agency's sake. "Just nothing about our work, a little unfair but only to protect others. We can all pass on any questions we can't, or don't want to say. But, let's be honest here, heh. No lying, you can just not answer. Lying is bad~!"

Grey breathed a chuckle, gaining everyone's attention. "Star hates to lie, and isn't very good at it either. So, you can trust she won't lie to you." He added honestly.

Emma sips her drink and stares at Eve. "Okay. Well, can you tell us how you know Seth?"

Eve points to Shadow, having heard that name just today but assuming it was his real name. "Him? Work. He was sent with some of your people to our unit headquarters. You should know why, but I unfortunately met him again a while back in the park after that. So, we're now acquainted."

Shadow whips his head and utters aloud in shock. "Unfortunately?"

Eve glares over the table at Shadow, having her reasons. "Because, you're a worse stalker than some of my fans...."

"Ouch... I'm sorry, again...." Shadow felt heartbroken, but deserved it, since it was true.

Emma nudges Shadow with her shoulder, trying to perk him up. She chuckles as she glances at Eve. "Not going easy on him, I see. Sorry if he did anything. The big galoot is totally hopeless, besides being good at fighting." She pats Shadow's back.

"Hmph, not that good." Grey adds under his breath, to everyone's surprise. He was quiet the whole time, beside when he spat venomess remarks, mainly to Shadow.

Eve tries to brush off her partner's bitter remark. She slams her hands down on the table, getting up from her seat a bit, announcing. "Okay! So! Does your side have any issues besides with the agency?" She quickly, and awkwardly asked.

One male responded first. "Issues? Well, if you're asking enemies, the other agency's are a threat sometimes. If they find us, we have to move non stop, till we lose them. Other than that, we struggle with financial stability. We all work, or have some way of coming about money to buy food and expenses. We already got shelter, though it's usually a bump."

"Sounds rough...." Eve's voice dropped in a sorrow and worried tone.

The male, Michie, nods tiredly looking over to Eve. "Believe me. But, nothing can be as bad as getting to be a test subject for some creepy scientists to dissect."

Eve nods, and lets out a sympathetic sigh. "It's a worrisome situation. Understandable. How do people who don't have jobs live?"

Michie waves his hands, and answers plainly. "Barely? We try to give when we can, but not everyone can get a meal sometimes."

Eve tilts her head. "Why not have the agency make housing facilities for you guys, if we can reach an agreement?" She honestly wondered if they could get needed help.

Most of the rebels look doubtfully at Eve, like it was a bad idea. Michie just responds to answer Eve's question. "Depends... if they'd even do that for us. I really don't know. Not all of us like the information, for different reasons. Our leader hates them the most, probably." Now that the obstacles were explained, it should make sense for them.

Grey pipes in, intimidating all the rebels as soon as he speaks. "Obviously can't tell us about them, right?"

Almost everyone shakes their head. They definitely sounded like they could even mention it.

Michie goes to a new question, moving over the last. "So, what do you want to know about rebels, as an advocate?"

Eve folds her hands together on the table, and gave her friendliest and warm smile. "How you live, your goals and plans, just to get some understanding. Some of your plans don't seem all that peaceful. I want to see if your group would coincide with the agency on helping our kind live more normal lives."

Grey adds, sounding almost sincere, for his serious tone. "But, it's no use without cooperation from your leader. Star wants no more conflicts from either side. We'd make negotiations with our and your dissuasion-makers."

Eve looks over at Grey, almost shocked. He turns his head and smirks lightly towards her, knowing what she'd have to do to reach her goal.

Eve looks back, asking the important question they want answered. "Would they be able to listen to what I'd have to say?"

Camilla scratches her cheek, nervously replying. "I don't know. One way instead maybe, we usually do a large group for most decisions. But our leader's got the idea that with the agency gone, we'd be better off. So they do most of the planning, while many just focus on us. You can talk to our actual group. So? What's the proposal?" She plopped her head in her hands on the table, and asked.

Eve goes from all smiles to a little more serious, as politely as she could. "Don't work for the agency, but with. You can be your own group, but we shouldn't be harming one another. We're on the same side, technically."

The rebels look nervously at one another, sharing the same unsure expression. Eve sees them worried, so she adds. "Have any of you wanted to attack the agency, without someone telling you?"

Michie shakes their head, the others look at them, almost shocked, but also because they'd shake their heads too, if it wasn't an agent asking.

Shadow speaks up, after the silence, and his moping. "Well, some sure do, but not any of us here. Some aren't 'bout that life. Only reason why I've tried to break into the agency once, was because I've never seen any floor but one, the school one."

Eve turns to Grey for an explanation. "There's a school inside the building?" She tilts her head, honestly surprised.

Grey nods his head and tiredly tells Eve, and everyone listening. "It's a few of the ground floors for academic studies. Those aren't marked, and you've never had to be schooled there, so you've never had to see them."

Eve nods, now understanding. She looks down awkwardly scratching her cheek. "Ah... I'm still learning more about how the agency works. It's very self-sufficient, I see."

Camilla slouches over and leans her head on her propped hand. "Yeah... Wish we had something like a foundation for ourselves. We barely keep up with rules, not that there really are any."

Michie taps on the table, all the while his leg and body had been fidgeting around now. He waves his hand out, sounding so confused. "Why are you guys nice? I'm surprised, I thought you'd have to arrest us."

Eve's face scrunches her confused. She scratches her head, acting unsure. "Technically...? Not sure, since I'm an agent, but want to hear your side. It's hard to achieve that without trust, heh. So, I'm just showing you were no threat, unless you try to be. So, let's just talk, like one side, as I wish we could one day."

Grey watched Eve speak in silence. This conversation was way over his head and possibly breaking a lot of rules. But, they were also following some of Eve's directions.

They talk for some time, starting to move past the serious questions, and just hanging out while people eat their food. They all pay on whatever ways they divvied out for their meals, and then parted ways. It was an interesting interaction for both the agents and rebels, but it wasn't bad.

Grey seemed like he had enough when they left. He walks off in front of Eve, but turns to her, then scowling away with a gruff murmur. "Let's get going. We've wasted enough time around those rebels." They whole day out to get supplies was ruined, in his mind.

Eve walks fast to catch up with Grey, Sam trotting along beside her. "But, we've made our reasons known. Maybe they'll stop attacking us for a bit. We can meet with them, to get a way on their side, to talk." She optimistically followed up by saying.

Grey was still bitter and annoyed. He growls as he shifts his eyes over to Eve as they walk. "That's good and all, but it could also be dangerous. We should just get stuff for the trip and go back."

Eve lets out a chuckle, then shrugs her shoulders. "Alright. Can't say we at least didn't try to act kind to the rebels. I'd hope either is the bad side, but if I can't find anything else about the rebels, it's hard to determine the next step. Probably making sure no one else goes to that side." Even with no place to go, Eve didn't want it to be a bad place.

Grey looks down in thought. He never knew if Eve calmed down after the sanctuary, or from anything at this point. "We'll have to work our way to not be on the bad side either...." He added, trying not to speakeasy of the agency's doings either. He didn't think it was bad at all, till he met Eve, he now wonders, and feels a little lost for once.

Eve smiles but scratches her cheek a little awkwardly. "Well... there's some beneficial qualities, I'm sure... I happen to see a lot of pros and cons. I'm debating, actually, if I'm perfectly honest."

Grey tilts his head towards Eve, and bores his eyes into hers. "Be honest. Just know there is a strict system, and you'd have to bypass a whole new system, good enough to replace it. You'll have to do a lot of work, to do everything that you'd want to achieve."

Eve looks down. "I guess I know one good side...." She spoke softly.

Grey looks away, calmly finishing her though aloud. "Your desert home. It's the only place people can be whoever they are. It's not shocking, or scary to them... Right?"

Eve nods and smiles. "Yes, and it's good for them. So, we'll have to take their knowledge, and use it at the agency, and with the rebels. Why not try to open the world a little more for us, heh. Not so strict, or hidden from themselves."

Grey honestly brought up the question. "How can we do that? If anyone finds out, we all possibly be tested on, or dead, who knows."

Eve points to the sky, and quickly responds, confident, and optimistic. "If we miraculously start purifying our air and water, fix human-made damages, even supply any resources available, how can anyone not accept us? We just need to show them!" She cheered.

Grey stops and turns his body to Eve. He shakes his head and hands. "T- that could still backfire! They could enslave us, Eve...."

Eve didn't seem persuaded.She kept a smile on her face, even as her partner's distressed. "Maybe, but we're all human after all. They could take what freedom we have left, but it wouldn't be justified, or morally right. Not everyone would look at us like freaks. I know, I've met at least one normal person, born in this society, that accepts me."

Grey scoffs tiredly. "... You're too optimistic. You'll have to make a plan that'll solve all our problems first." He rolled his eyes at the impossible idea.

Eve nods frantically, so confident and hopeful. "I'll try, it's also my job to."

Grey turns into a building entrance, but keeps his eyes fixed on Eve. "Come on, let's get in this store before it's too crowded with Sam in there as well. A sporting store should have some utilities for just us." It seemed he didn't mind the whole tiger situation anymore, now that so much worse chaos happened. It was the least of their worries now, as they went to some stores, and back to the apartments.

_______________________________

The next few days became quiet for the agents. Grey kept to himself after hanging out with Eve, Sameer, and some rebels. They reunited on their first day back to work after the weekend. First thing for them when they entered their floor was the director, waiting for them at their desks.

As the director's eyes shifted over to the agents, realizing his short wait was already over, he smiled and waved at them. "I have good news, agents. Got everything ready for the trek, and we'll set a date by today. If it's okay with you, we'll have you there for a full week, sometime this month. So, we'll have big projects before and after you leave, be prepared."

Eve didn't think twice when she quickly responded, confidently. "The sooner, the better. If we can go this or next week, it'll be the perfect time." She was more than ready, Eve was dying to start the trek.

Oracle's happy to hear Eve's response. "Okay. You'll just have to make sure you're all packed, and mentally prepared in... does two days sound soon enough? That way, you can focus on a mission that'll be ongoing as well. As Grey has informed me of your bump-ins with some rebels."

Eve looks over at Grey, who was just calmly standing beside her, listening to the director. She turns back, nodding to confirm.

Director Oracle continues in adding. "We don't know where they're located, but if you've spotted a group in the town square, I believe they've moved their base closer."

Eve shifts her eyes, observing the area as she thought. She brings a finger to her lips, mentioning another possibility to their case. "Or... the shadow rebel's going away from their base, maybe to observe us, or me. If they can find things about me, it's the closest thing they can get their hands on about one person from the agency. Regardless, the agency's not any more of a target than before, but now I am, because I have a different main objective than you all."

Although Eve didn't sound very worried about it, the director certainly was. "Ah... That's a good point, and possibly the case. But, their attacks could get a lot more dangerous, on all of us. They're only getting worse. We need to, at least, find the base." Oracle directs clearly. He did feel bad Eve had gotten so involved with the rebels, but it was perfect for the case.

Eve nods, sombering calmly, adding. "I understand. We'll have to figure something else out in case. I've learned they do have a leader, and can also make decisions from some group. Whoever's giving those dirty jobs to the rebels must be the reason. Others just have no where to go, and are just trying to get by the best they can."

Director Oracle turns, giving a calm nod, and concluding. "We'll see what we can do. And, we'll have everything set for when you come back."

As the director was about to walk away, he stared at Eve intently. "Also, have you heard from your mentor recently? Would they be able to talk before you leave?" He questioned.

Eve's eyes widened, instantly nervous about the crystal tied around her neck. She wore it on occasions like Yamehl wanted, but was scared sometimes if anyone would see and get suspicious. She still got the courage to nod, then avoid having the issue of bringing it out now. "L- let me get something at the end of my shift. It'll be a better time the later it is."

The director smiles, seeming none the wiser. Walking off as ending the talk, he speaks. "Ah, of course. Don't forget to make contact with him. I have an important message I want to give them." He waved as he stepped back into his office to work.

The agents were left to investigate the rebel files. Looking at suspicious suspects and images, files of those they know out there, or the ones they have prisoned in the lower levels somewhere.

For their break, they split up to their apartments to pack, but Grey ended up coming over with food. He made sure they ate, especially not knowing if Eve was cooking while she was packing. Still trying to learn more about her, Grey worries about what he doesn't know about Eve. Whenever he was talking with her however, that worry went away, and he saw she seemed happy and making the best of things.

Time had passed as the agents wrapped up their work for the day. All that was left was for Eve to 'retrieve' her communicator, for the director. When Eve had to present the communicator, the director was a little astounded by the simple, normal-looking crystal necklace. Grey hangs in the background, leaving on a bookshelf full of files, not saying anything.

The director looked at the crystal, suspended from a strong Eve, holding up to his view. "That's how you contact him?" He points at the crystal, looking intrigued at it.

Eve nods, with her brows knitting worried a bit. "Yes...."

Eve takes the crystal into her palms, looking down as it starts to hum and flash a low, slow light. Once it stopped dimming, and was lit completely, Eve spoke to the crystal. "'Mehl? Is this a good time?"

The light sporadically flashed, as a chuckle was heard from inside the room. Yamehl speaks, as if his voice was there in front of everyone.

'Why wouldn't it be? I'm not too busy right now, just working on something. How have you been, since last we spoke?'

Her mentor hummed so happily to hear from her. Eve tries her best not to get too giddy over hearing his voice, as she usually goes crazy normally. "I- um... It's been alright. I hope you've been well and safe." She blushed a little flustered over the entirety of the situation.

Yamehl speaks, stating no worries for Eve.

'Why, of course.'

Eve takes a deep breath out, relieved. "I'm so happy to hear from you. I'm able to come see you soon! After tomorrow, we'll make our way to you." She was so excited, her smile could practically be heard.

Eve's good news made Yamehl happy as well. At long last the magicians were to reunite, after Eve taking on a new career, and traveling farther away.

'Aah, how exciting. And, I do hope you'll be safe. I've missed having you here. It'll be like old times, but with more people, heh.'

Eve gets to the point, getting more flustered to continue gushing over her mentor otherwise, in front of everyone. "I- I'm actually with the leader of the agency right now, who wants to speak with you."

As if not surprised, Yamehl replies.

'Is that so? What do they have to say?'

The director speaks, immediately wanting to reply himself. "I hope you're really alright with this. I'm Director Oracle. We appreciate your help, and allowing some of our people to come to visit you."

Yamehl verbally smirks, in a light chuckle.

'Well, it's hard to say no when my apprentice is involved. They must have good reasons to help, so I shall do the same. But, was that all you really wanted to say to me?'

The director chuckles cheerily and carefree, acting relaxed when speaking to Eve's mentor. "Heh, also, I hope you could let us take records, and help us try to fix some of our modernized systems."

Yamehl breathed out a chuckle, plainly stating.

'I already figured that much.'

Almost like he wants to prove himself as a leader, Oracle mentioned. "Well, I personally, as a leader of protecting our kinds around the world, want our people to thrive. Live without worry or discrimination. We want to have a better place for our kind, so if you have any input on how we should try, we'll give anything a shot."

This answered a lot of Yamehl, also to why they would take Eve for their mission. He tried to put aside some of their actions they've done, just as long as they didn't harm Eve.

'I see. And, what is it that's the biggest threat you face?'

The director sighs, having the question make him think of what's the worst they could fear. "That's... depending on two things, if the rest of the world becomes fearful about us walking amongst themselves, or our own government takes us all as experiments, or maybe would just kill us, even."

Yamehl understands this worry well. No matter what side, even the rebels would possibly say the same.

'All worries are led by fear, for both kinds, humans, and special cases. So, if physical danger is a threat, being discreet isn't all too bad. However, if you want people's minds to change, one day, do it gradually, till they notice, and see the good in its subtle ways. Some things like that might take a little, for a lifetime to become conditioned. Depending on how the public's mind sees it. I've heard the area hasn't been the best, in the past.'

The director and Yamehl are on the same page. Good men, trying to help people in different ways. Oracle smiles through his tone, agreeing. "Very true, and that's why we don't want history to repeat itself."

It seemed to everyone that they agreed on that. No more witch hunts, or discrimination. Yamehl agrees, and giving reassurance.

'Good. It's also good you have Eve, then. She has a good heart, and can try to change things around. She's very experienced in winning people over, and making people happy. She'll be a friendly face in your plans. People might need that sort of comfort or security, to be persuaded.'

Director Oracle watches Eve as her mentor describes her personally. "Heh, we're very grateful to have her on the team." He practically agrees with Yamehl, knowing Eve's very welcoming when she tries.

'Just be kind to her. She may not like some things, so don't discourage it. Treat her well, since her life is in your hands. She's more than a guild enough, but I'll see that you find whatever it is you want, about magicians, and how things used to be.'

Yamehl wanted to add, making sure that he had the director's promise. If he can make sure his apprentice is safe, he'd have no other worries.

"Thank you, Eve's mentor. We'll keep everything in mind." The director says, honored they could be given such an opportunity, to meet Eve, soon her mentor, to discover something greater.

After the heartfelt appreciation, Eve's mentor starts to chuckle, amused.

'Heh, my name is Yamehl. I see that Eve's not been one to give much details about me, personally. That's alright though.'

Yamehl chuckles more. The director adds, also going him in a small laugh. "You're certainly right on that, heh! Well, we'll have your apprentice back to you shortly, for a week. Also, some of our people. It was a pleasure talking to you, Yamehl."

'Thank you. I'm forever grateful, if you keep my apprentice safe. I'll be waiting till your arrival. See that you've gotten permission when you cross the barren desert.'

Yamehl cares greatly for Eve. If she is safe and happy, he would fret nothing else in his life.

"We'll do our best." After the director confidently added, they reached confirmation on their negotiations, and their conversation was over. The crystal slowly faded, flickering till it was completely back to normal.

The director looks up at Eve, smiling. "Well that was very interesting. Sounds like your mentor's a good man. He must be incredibly humble and kind." He shifts his eyes over to Grey after saying that. The innocent glee fading as he smirks over Eve's shoulder. Grey looks away annoyed.

Eve hugs the necklace close to her heart. She jumps energetically agreeing, with no doubts about it. "That he is! The kindest person I know!" And she was confident about it.

The director turns his attention back to Eve. He beams at her. "Well, it was nice to hear from him. I hope that the trek will go well with everyone's help. Thank you, for this opportunity, and both of you going all that way to meet him. Take care of yourselves, and our team, heh. They've gone out to deserts, mountains, and jungles, but you never know what might happen."

Jumping up and giving a warm smile, Eve goes back to her usual, cheery attitude. "Of course, thank you for letting us be able to go see him!". She truly was trusting the S.O.U. They wanted to be trustworthy enough regarding such important information. Just finally hearing from Eve's mentor was a good sign.

They walk out of the office, now the day was over, and they could leave. They get their stuff and head to the elevators.

Eve looks so excited and lost in her daydreams. Grey cuts the silence. "I assume you're ready for this, the trek."

Eve smiles widely at Grey. "Yup! I have everything almost ready. I already know what to pack for me, Sam, and for emergencies."

Grey looks smugly at his partner, becoming so excited and fantasizing the trip. He didn't know how it would go, and he asks the question, just to know some important details. What are you bringing for 'emergencies'?" He turns back, facing the doors as an elevator stops on their floor.

They cycle in into the elevator, and Eve answers as Grey clicks the button to the main floor. "Poison antidotes, first aid, healing waters, thermal blankets, and bringing sticks and magic leaves for fire...." And she goes on, thinking of what to bring.

Grey slowly scans over Eve's excited expression. He knows she can't wait to be there again. "Are you ready to see your mentor again?"

Eve jumps up. "I can't wait!" He holds her fist to her chest, barely able to contain herself. She had been waiting a long while, especially after worrying she'd never see her mentor again.

Grey huffs, plainly speaking. "I figured...." He looked away, down at the ground.

Eve tilts her head and knits her brows together, curious and worried. "What's wrong?" There was something more going on with her partner, she just couldn't tell what.

Grey looks back up for a moment, only to wave his hand away and go back to sulking. "Nothing. Just not as prepared mentally as you."

Eve seems to understand. Grey sounded worried the whole time they talked about it. It had its perks, but also things Grey might not be used to, she believed. "It's okay to worry. Worry can help or hinder your decision making. If you're worried about anything, let me know what it is, and I can help fix or ease it." Eve smiles up at Grey, with the brightest smile one could possibly give.

Not really wanting to say everything on his mind, he just admits to his default answer, that anyone would be worried about. "I'm just worried that this is a lost cause. We go see your mentor, and no matter what, we can't do the same things you two are capable of."

Eve can understand that answer, Grey even knew she'd try to comfort him. "Well, it's no worries if you can't be magicians. We can just focus on how people's abilities can help the world. We can just try." She reassured him.

The elevator door finally open on the main lobby floor. Grey huffs, and steps out quickly. "What if it's not good enough, and we're left exposed, and it backfires. We'll be putting everyone in danger. Even normal people could be affected."

Eve rushes out of the elevators and jumps to Grey side as he walks out the building. "There's things to fight for, or else nothing will change. So, we can see who would want to stand with us, or stay as things are now. I know, those rebels, and others outside of the agency, would possibly defend their rights."

Grey sighs, and rubs his tired face. He glances over a moment at Eve, stating. "... That's very 'you' to say that. I guess... we'll see what your mentor has for us." And they go into the apartments, riding another elevator to their separate floors.

_____________________________

After a long wait getting into her apartment, and finally parting from Grey, Eve relaxes. She makes a quick meal before sitting on the couch, playing with her crystal necklace. She sat with legs folded on the couch, one hand playing with the communicator, the other brushing Sameer's fur.

Eve was in thought, but decided on something after a long pause to herself. Taking the communicator, she activates it again.

After a long pause waiting, the crystal gleams, and Eve cheerfully hums out. "Hi again, 'Mehl~!"

Yamehl greets Eve, calm and pleasant as always.

'Ah, I get to hear from you, twice in one day. How lucky I am, heh.'

Eve brings the communicator close, gasping dramatically. "I didn't get to say goodbye! But! No one's around now, and I just wanted to hear from you...." She dropped her head down, along with her tone. It made her sound selfish, and maybe it was, since she just wanted to hear his voice again.

Yamehl didn't waver in response, and quickly soothes.

'Likewise. What would you like to talk about?'

Yamehl sounded curious, but he probably didn't mind any conversation, as long as it was with Eve.

Eve fidgets on the couch, actually a little worried. "Um- Are you really okay with outsiders coming to the town? They'll monitor, and look through everything, possibly." She warned, but Eve's mentor already knew.

Yamehl accepted it after thinking so critically about their decision. He reassures her.

'But, it's a good thing they do. If they want to learn, I suppose it's alright that they learn it from me. I have the most collection of records and the practices, than any other magician out there in the world. This town is like a timekeeper, and a good start to your mission.'

Eve still wasn't fully relaxed at the idea like her mentor somehow was. "But, what about keeping Uridian from strangers that could possibly do wrong?" She stresses.

Yamehl challenges the agency to make the right choices. He wanted the people elsewhere to thrive, and not have information for some profit or gain. This was to better their new societies. He wanted Eve not to worry, but to lead them.

'True, but it's not like we keep ourselves a secret, without it just being for protection. As long as they don't expose us to other than their group. They've kept you under them for a while now. Truly, if they can try to make compromises, and you want to help them, I will do my part, as well.'

"'Mehl...." Eve was so awestruck by her mentor's heartfelt message. The reaction made Yamehl let out a chuckle through the crystal, visibly. He adds on.

'I'd also want the new magician's to do well. Whatever new society is out there should understand who they are, after all. Can't have our people in the dark can we? Heh, and I thought I knew of all the magicians around the world. To think I thought you were just a lost wanderer, but you're one of many out there. I see that now, and it's opened my eyes. Oh, but you're special, still. Very special, I can tell.'

Eve giggles, sounding almost jokingly as she had to ask. "What? Heh, how am I special?"

'Do you fit in the agency easily? Can others perform the same powers as you? Are you not trying to teach them? Heh, you're still special, to me, and them.'

Yamehl had a good point, and they were all true. He knew exactly how Eve was, and remembered her promise she wanted to make for the agency.

Eve felt honored her mentor would say so, but she learned it all from him. "But, I'm only special because of you, 'Mehl. I'd be nothing without you. I wouldn't be as happy, or maybe I'd still feel lost, if I hadn't met you...." Eve's heart spoke for her, and softened her voice. In which her mentor's does the same, and he speaks honestly.

'Eve... I... see you as a beautiful, amazing soul. No matter the 'what if's', you'll inspire a lot you desire to achieve.'

Yamehl tells Eve, like she needed to hear it from him to get her back on track again. As much as she tries to teach scientists, show her powers and knowledge, it felt like little was done. And, there were so many more hurdles to go over.

'Don't give up on them, the new magicians. They need you.'

Yamehl added, wanting Eve to continue on in wanting to make all their lives better. Yet, it sounded like no simple task, Yamehl had full faith in her.

Eve looks down at the crystal, like she was looking for an answer somewhere there. She didn't know the way, the answers, or even all the questions. "I'll see you soon, 'Mehl. I miss you so badly. I need you... You've given me strength to get this far." She clenched her shirt in one of her hands tightly.

'I'll be waiting. I'll be with you soon enough. Take care, Eve. You're already the strongest person I know.'

Eve giggles, rocking herself and the crystal in her hands giddily. "Heh, that's my line! You're the most powerful grand magician I know! Hehe, you're the only one I met, but I know you have a special case. You're one of the strongest."

'You'll see yourself as strong as me, if you believe it. One day, you'll be more powerful than me, even. Now, get some rest if it's late. Goodnight, Eve.'

After they say goodbye and end their communication, Eve sits a while longer. She thinks, patting Sameer and looking out a window, wondering how things will turn out. How the trip will go, and how it'll go when they get back, and start working on changing things.

I just posted all my current chapters. Apologies for the inactive posting. I'll try to be on here, and post chapters more consistently, as they become finished. I have up to twelve chapters released at this time. Also, changed my art style, only slightly, so I'll post new art soon. Maybe post old art too I hadn't gotten to posting on here.

A successful takedown last night brought back exciting news the next day. Coming back to work, agents find themselve hearing about the latest mission, or sharing their experiences. Word started to spread about Eve's heroic deeds, especially. But, Eve seemed oblivious to the coworkers around watching her, curiously, and, or intrigued. Everyone goes on, rushing through the busy unit. 

Eve had gotten to work as usual. She sits at her desk, writing a report, as Grey left to get something for a mission. She was feeling good after last night. It was a lot better than her last few hectic encounters before that. Eve doesn't pay much mind to the office chatter. "Hi there. You're name's Maestro, right?" A voice calls out specifically to her, however. It was immediately unfamiliar, so she had to check who it was.

Eve turns, and gives a warm smile as two unfamiliar agents approach her. A male and female stand beside Eve's desk. They stood like night and day. Eve greets the contrasting pair. "Yes, that's me! Can I help you two with something?"

The male speaks up. He wore all black as his counterpart wore all white. He also has dark hair and skin. "Not exactly, but we were just wanting to meet you. I'm Sorlas, and this is Spirit. We heard about your work last night."

The female that was introduced as Agent Spirit speaks. Her silver bangs hid her ghostly pale face, but looked excitedly at Eve. "And, SAW too. Like seriously, amazing work."

Eve runs a hand through her hair, and light-heartedly chuckles. "Hehe, well I'm glad last night's mission was a success. Thanks."

Spirit gets in closer, almost like it was secretive, but she was too excited. "So, I heard from Blare you live with a tiger in your apartment. Is that true?- If so, like, how?" She said bluntly, but was curious. Most would naturally.

Blare must have passed on some tidbits around the office Eve's told her before. It's not like Eve's surprised, or seen it before. With her old life displayed online for all to see, even rebels could find out things about her. She shouldn't be surprised at this point what people know about her.

Eve giggles, waving her hands. "Oh, Sameer is actually super sweet and intelligent. He wouldn't hurt anyone, or even smaller animals. He's nice, and probably a little lonely with me not there all the time anymore. Heh, it's been a little sad not having him by my side, either."

Sorlas chuckles nervously, as he scratches his head, trying to be polite. "Aw, that's sweet. Probably for the best, though."

Eve chuckles lightheartedly. She couldn't contain her childish excitement, and her love for animals. "Hehe, of course. He looks like a tiger, but he has a heart of gold! He wouldn't do anything, just sit and watch me work." From experience, Eve knows Sameer's patience. He used to sit when she was heavily focused on a piece of music in the past.

Spirit looks curiously at Eve. Her voice goes excitedly in question. "So, are you, like, famous or something?"

Eve jolts and turns her head curiously. By the statement, she seems unsure she heard Spirit right. "Excuse me?" She asked, to make sure.

Spirit giggles, she didn't want to be wrong or bring up false information, but what she heard was too interesting to say the least to be normal gossip. "So, I keep hearing a bunch of things, and I'm wondering if they're true."

Eve looks away bashfully, but back at them, curious. "Um... Actually, what DO you hear about me." She wondered, not knowing what gets passed around, as people just talk about her, for whatever reasons.

Spirit thinks aloud, much less vaguely than before. She lists anything that sounded like it came from a few people. "That you're someone famous from overseas. You're a 'late bloomer', meaning you didn't get discovered, and learn about our existence till recently. You also have multiple powers, somehow. You also have a mysterious side with how you basically 'Indiana Jones'd' your way around the world, getting powers instead of treasures, and showing our research team, whatever that is..." The agent realized she was rambling and scratched her head, sounding more unsure at the end. However, it seemed fairly true. Just more vaguely put.

Agent Sorlas joins in by adding. "Oh! I heard you're super strong, and can basically fly." Whether from training perhaps, or the time she flew out a window, Eve can see that.

Spirit turns over to Sorlas, nudging him playfully, then turning back to Eve. "Bet she could do way more than that! You're, like, super powerful as is, Maestro."

The supposed gossip involving Eve appeared fairly accurate, given its vague parts, and creative description. "Well...." Eve draws out, thinking of what to say, or a way to explain herself. Others certainly wanted to know more about her. "Interesting way of putting it, heh. I'm not as famous as some think. I make music and post it online. If you look at my stuff, 'Starlight Night Eve', I'm just a very innocent singer and songwriter. I'm a child and young adult entertainer, mostly. I don't do much besides that in reality. Besides also going on hiatuses to explore the world and find what past ability-users were like." It was a more elaborate, summed up version of theirs.

A gruff voice cut in from behind them. One that was familiar to all the agents. "Maestro! Have you finished your report yet?" Grey's voice called out for her, as he stomped over, immediately eyeing the other agents.

The two agents go into a cold sweat as Grey walks over. Eve turns to her partner, and gives him a warm smile. "Yes, I did! Do you need to check it?" She cheerfully gleamed.

Grey walks closer and leans over Eve's shoulder to review her screen. "Yes, let me see it... What are you all doing, lazing around?" After a pause reading, Grey suddenly eyes the two agents again that were by his partner.

Eve innocently beams up at Grey. His glare was ineffective to her. "We were just talking about last night's mission. Getting to know each other better, since they recognized me." She responded, for the agents' sake.

Grey shoots daggers at the agents, who were sweating even more nervously. He then looks away, scoffing. "Hmph... You two are dismissed. Please get to work, and don't distract Maestro." He takes a seat at his own desk.

Eve giggles gleefully. "Awe, don't be grumpy. It doesn't hurt to have a nice chat with people sometimes, I was working after all." She teased her relentlessly cold partner.

The other agents take a step away from Eve and Grey, especially as Grey was intimidating them with his steely glare. Spirit nervously shoos away, waving her hand goodbye, then quickly turns and walks away with Sorlas. "W- we'll just see you later, Maestro. I'll check out your music on my break!"

Eve waves off, unperturbed. She calls out, in a friendly and slightly joking manner. "Heh, I might need subtitles, or an English cover. I know a few, if interested!" She smirks down, turning back in her seat to her desk.

Eve hums and turns back in her seat. She was about to check her files on her computer, but stopped in thought. "Hm, I really should make a song..." She was pondering aloud.

Grey turns his head to Eve scowling harder at her. "You really should be working. Don't space out now."

Eve playfully shakes her head to focus. She giggles to herself, then goes back to work. "Yes, yes. Work now, but I must make a song on my time off."

They go to work silently at their computers, but Grey shifts his eyes over and watches Eve instead. "... What would it be about?" He muttered.

Eve whips her head to Grey, not sure if she heard right. "Pardon?" He had spoken so quietly, she could had been mistaken. But, she heard right.

Grey coolly turns and asks Eve more elaborately. "What song do you want to make?" His voice was more shy and quiet than before.

Her curiosity then turns softer, as Eve looks down and sighs a chuckle. "Heh, I'd just let something speak from the heart, and see how it goes."

A curious day was planned ahead. The overall feeling was as if things were finally getting accustomed to. The idea of something greater, and the trust that's being built, was just what things needed to bloom. Cogs were turning in the agency, new plans head for the unit, of ability users alike.

______________________________

Knock is heard from inside of the director's office. He lifts his head over his computer to see Agent Grey, and Agent Maestro entering. They walk in, both had scheduled a meeting over future plans, and were right on time to meet with Oracle. Grey was gloomy and endpanned as usual, and Eve was a bubbling ray of light.

Director Oracle greets them, calm and cheerfully. "Welcome you two. I have a small rundown of our plan I want to ask Maestro about, for the trek. I have a map there. Also a list of what our team will possibly need." He takes a few papers from a clutter of documents and papers, handing it to Eve. She takes it and shyly looks it over.

The agents take a seat, and Eve observes the clutter, and a bunch of new materials on the desk. There were lists, small packs, first aid kits, a map of the world, and a big red marker. The map and marker seemed like they were together. Eve was especially fixated on the map.

Eve looks up at the director, eyes going wide. Although she was prepared for this already, she had some residual worries. She slowly draws out.  "And... you need the map marked?" She raised a brow from under her bangs. 

The director keeps his smile, but his eyes look a little worried as he scratches his cheek. "If you could, that would be appreciative. We just need at least some estimate of where the jet should land, what and how many supplies to bring. If you could give us something semi-accurate to go with."

Eve nods and closes her eyes. She knew this was needed, she prepared herself mentally for it. She leans out of her seat to grab the marker, and draws a line all the way from North America they were on, to the middle of the Middle East. Then she starts going over towns, and drawing the places they must visit firstly, before making their destination to the city of Uridian.

Eve starts explaining, writing a little more details as she spoke. "Yes, of course. It's a flight to the central city, then a car, then a bus... Later, we'll need to be on foot or animals for the most part. So, we can land, then spend a few days and nights on the trek."

Grey had his arms crossed, looking over at his partner. He taps his arm with a finger, with something bugging him he didn't quite understand. "I'm still curious how you just randomly stumbled onto a town that's days away from the next." He sounded plain, and in disbelief.

Eve pleaded that she was speaking with utmost reasons. Even if the reason wasn't something she, or even her mentor, understood yet. "I- I was really desperate, and just wandering at one point. I didn't have a reason, but just a feeling to go out, and then keep going. It's not like it's impossible for people to get there, they get imports, after all. But the desert can also reject people, and just never show itself to some...." She didn't know why she was accepted. Eve wasn't a merchant, or worker coming over. She was just a wanderer, without a purpose.

Director Oracle places a hand under his chin, and gives an inquisitive smile. "It's interesting to say the least. How many days will we need to pack for food, per person?"

Eve calmly answers, knowing the trek well enough to estimate with assurance. "It might be three days, unless we can make it to two. Depends how quickly the team can go, between breaks."

Grey scoffed from beside Eve in his seat. Eve turns as he's grumbling with his arms crossed. "Jeez, can we not take a less difficult route, or something?" He sounded very displeased with the idea of being out there that long traveling.

Eve shakes her head. "We can't take a jet, and we one-hundred percent shouldn't, anyways. Aircrafts can't see the town from above, it's hidden from the skies, apparently." She put it simply, since they couldn't just directly go there. They needed to go farther out to be able to pass through.

Grey looks away, still pushing for more ideas that might sound better. "Tch... Well, what about using a boat the rest of the way?"

Eve explains the best she could. She's only traveled by boat once, the time she rescued Sameer. Having a big tiger on a thin boat during the first half wasn't pleasant, especially to the oarsmen. She denies any other route than her own as the best way. "We could, but we'll have to fly farther, then it'll be just as cumbersome to maneuver to the town, and possibly dangerous. Locals are more fit and know a lot more than me for that trek. This is just the route I use."

Grey nods, and drops his head down. "I see. Sigh...." He slumped into his seat. It's not like he was lazy, but he couldn't help but feel drained already from the thought.

The director shifts a toying but innocent glare over at the cold agent. "Worried about this one, Grey?" The agent didn't seem much for being worried about a mission. He seemed more likely to complain about certain cases, than the latter.

Grey coldly glares at Oracle. He huffs, looking away again, speaking. "It's not like it'll go out of control, but the idea of being in the desert and possibly getting stranded sounds agonizing." And it was more of a complaint than fear. Eve didn't seem like the one to leave them stranded, or astray.

Eve smiles over at her partner. She's done the trek there and back from home many times. It would only be a different starting point to the central. "Hehe, you'll be fine with me. Sadly, if there's a group, that's a lot to care for if anyone has issues with the heat. I can only temporarily change the temperature of myself and another person at a time. We'll need lots of water, and electrolytes. Comfy shoes too, for lots of walking. We can only carry what we can travel with, so it might be limited." She got more serious but relaxed as she explained.

Oracle smiles, not worried in the slightest in his tone. "We'll have all the essentials and equipment you'll need to get there and back. We'll make sure there's nothing to worry about. As long as you can handle it once you've made it to the location."

Eve gives a thumbs up to the director. "Once we find my mentor, we'll be set. For however long we're there... We'll probably need thick tents, and a set of warm and cool clothes for everyone. The nights can be freezing if there's any wind. And, even when we get to the town, we can't exchange or use any currency for any inns. Only outside merchants will take dirham."

Uridian was a closed off, small, yet well off by using copper, silver, or gold coins. Also trading being highly regulated in a small town like theirs. The city is self-sufficient, with a ruler that still technically has money and power. Though little power to be renowned elsewhere.

"Also..." The director slowly drew out. "You said you'd contact your mentor before...." He said in an uncharacteristically serious tone.

Eve jolts up when she tries to remember her saying that. She must have spoken too honestly before. It could spell trouble if the director knew she was secretly talking to her mentor about the agency.

Oracle's drops back to his cheerful, but nervous voice. He smiles, but even Eve see's him practically sweating behind his kind smile. "Would you be willing to let us communicate before you leave? If you're going to have him able to get your message, I want to talk with them, as the leader here, after all. He'd probably want my word, than a message passed. Would he not?"

Eve looks down nervously processing her options. She plays with her hair, thinking things through on how it would go. If it was just a message, or she doesn't have them even meet or talk to her mentor, she thought about. But the honest route was to work together, so she'll have to hear the director out. "Err... You're right. I'll ask if he'll talk to you, when I tell him I'm coming to see him." She nervously agreed, but still not meeting any eyes, and looking away.

The director smiles radiantly. "Perfect. We'll discuss more with a team later about this. Thank you very much for your help. Is there anything else before you go for the journey?"

Eve places a finger to her cheek and thinks. Grey gets up, ready to leave, she watches, as she couldn't think of anything they might not know already. So, she gets up and just explaimes. "Hm... I take my breaks when it's the hottest. And, I assume we'll have a fire starter, and hopefully people who've started a campfire before."

Grey chuckles, crossing his arms and looking confidently with a smirk at Eve. "Heh, hopefully, we all have already." It would be concerning, or at a disadvantage, not to know a good basic skill, along with first aid and cpr.

Eve presses her fingertips together as she holds them close to her face. "If there's a bad wind, I can still keep fires from being put out..." She added. There wasn't much besides what was required in the moment, and what local supplies they got from the cities and towns before that long trek.

Both agents walk from the evaluator to their floor. Agent Grey was holding a file from the director in hand, while discussing with Eve about a current inspection around the city. Most agents at the S.O.U. were out patrolling the

They discuss over file as they make their way back to their desks. Grey asks after their brief reviewing. "Well, what do you think about this current report?" Showing Eve a list of details over the city, each district and it's possible whereabouts of past, present, and possible future rebel bases. It seems there was a surveillance recorded and notes on it for the whole city.

Eve scratches her cheek, not knowing what to come of it, but for different reasons. "Everything looks fine, I don't see any issues. Do you think we really need to cover over a fourth of the city? Is it like an inspection?" She turns her head from the report, to Grey in question.

Grey faces Eve, and holds out the report. He speaks very seriously, and gruffly. "Rebels are out there and constantly on the move. We do indeed, just as protocol. We have to find them, if they're planning something again."

Eve's eyes goes wide in curiosity, and slight concern. She still doesn't know a whole lot about rebels yet, besides the fact that they attack the their unit. But, one rebel she knows doesn't seems heavily sueded by them. "Well, there's that one shadow rebel. He might be able to spill some secrets. They could be of help to us." She figured Shadow would do anything, but in exchange, she would have to hang out with them again, or something, to do so.

Grey thinks about the idea, and scowls harshly at the thought. He didn't want his partner anywhere near the shadow rebel. He snaps his head away grumbling. "Hmph, it could, or it could become dangerous if he tells his group. You never know with rebels."

Grey leans over and glares at Eve before she speaks, or tries to disagree with him. "We still have housing facilities to look into. We should look for signs of how certain ability users decide to leave. Also where these people find their kind, since they pick them up randomly."

Grey eyes his partner, scanning her as if reading something. He speaks, plainly. "Well... You haven't identified your kind here yet, have you? People can make quick signs, like when we first met. It's a small thing one can do, if they suspect someone's an ability-user."

It's not like she hadn't known that before, but not from the agency. It was just a little surprising, seeing an old magician's trick, and how that still stuck with their kind to this day. That's how Eve's mentor knew she was special, like him. "That makes sense...." She just lazily put it, not wanting to get off topic.

Grey brings the folder to his head, reading the file. "We'll still check out the housing facilities, as part of the search. We can sign off as a mission to go. This is just on the outskirts of the city, so it'll be easily feasible. You'll even learn more about our kind, not in the agency setting...."

_________________________________

Both Eve and Grey take a work car to the housing facility, just within the outskirts of the city. He drives, as Eve watches out the window, till she sees a large, white building complex come into view. A field and large garden and farm also cause her view as they drive past them to the entrance of the facility. They park and she follows inside behind Grey.

Eve finally speaks up, curious. "This is it?" She turns to Grey.

Grey takes a step closer, standing next to Eve. He plainly bores out. "Yep, hopefully it's as normal and unalarming as it looks. Nothing bad usually happens here."

They walk into a brightly lit, and warmly colored, entry. A receptionist's desk was in the center by the door, with the rec room and living all round them. Grey casually leads Eve to the front desk. Immediately, it looked like a normal housing facility, but far from anywhere, and anyone. 

Eve shyly mutters, worried about what she's hearing. "And... have there been bad times, too?" She didn't know if she wanted to know, but maybe needed to.

Grey scratches his head, a little anxious to answer. He does, however, speak truthfully. "It's happened... I can't lie that people have tried escaping. Though I don't know the reasons, but it's usually personal."

Eve walks a little slower, suddenly feeling a chilling aura about the place. She looks around, then back to Grey, questioning. "What happens if they escape?"

Grey speaks coldly, and serious of the situations. "They're captured, or on a list till they return. When you sign up to be placed in the housing facilities, a lot of freedom to interact with the outside world is taken...."

"-?!" How it was phrased sounded terrible, and didn't help the situation. But Grey, and quickly Eve, face the receptionist that greeted them with a smile.

The receptionist greets the agents with a kind smile. Her voice, cheerful and sweet. "Hello, and welcome. Agents, please fill out this authorization form, and you'll be able to check the facility."

They follow as instructed, Grey doing most of the paperwork, and both signing into the guest list. They wait for a guide to come give them a tour. Eve turns to Grey patiently propped against a wall, waiting. Eve asks, still not done talking with him about rules there at the facility. "Can people really not go outside?"

Grey had his arms crossed, and eyes closed. He opens his eyes and turns his head to Eve. "There's lots of fields before hitting any roads around here. People can walk around the large facility, or request transportation to ability-user areas, like the ones around the agency, for example. The only thing they can't do is go outside where there's normal people." He plainly spoke.

Eve looks away and down to the floor. She nervously smiles as she speaks her thoughts out loud. "That's... better than nothing... I guess." Her face looked a little more worried.

A woman comes out dressed in a clean white workers attire, smiling as she greets the agents. "Welcome to our facility. I'll show you around, and wherever you wish to go. Follow me."

Agents follow behind the guide. The guide walks though, showing areas, and their purpose. There was everything that normal housing facilities had. Agents even pass residence, Eve even waves to some. Grey turns his attention to the guild, piping up after a small silence while walking to the next area. "Has anything happened recently that you know?"

The woman turns her head to Grey. "Nothing new, besides the expansion of a smaller facility farther out. It's gotten crowded, even if we extend more wings."

Grey quickly nods, reflecting on how crowded it could be. He gives a casual reply back. "Hopefully that'll help with the oncoming crowd of users."

They continue venturing around the facility, looking at all the rooms and activities available. It was like a normal housing complex, with a gym, pool, and many different club rooms. They also had a large infirmary with doctors available for sudden physical injuries and illnesses. 

They go into one of the rooms, the surveillance room, where security was. It was warm and looked like a break room. Most of the actual security were sitting around, on a computer, or talking to other staff inside. 

The guild walks in, and introduces the area. Agents filing in after her as she explains. "Our security room is not often active, but prepared. Most watch over the outside if anyone comes onto private property. There's a few cameras around but due to privacy, we of course don't have any surveillance in any of the rooms, bathrooms, and the like."

As brief as it was, the areas quickly went by. They weren't eventful for being part of an inspection. Nothing raised an alarm to the agents, except Eve personally. As bright as it was, something felt off to only her.

Next was slowly making their way back to the entrance. The guild talks more about their facility, excited and cheery. "We try to have hobbies, clubs, and various activities, for the people to enjoy and feel more homely."

They make their way all the way around back to the start at the entrance, finishing the tour. There were a few rooms that residents were in that surrounded the entrance. It was spacious and not too crowded. The guild turns back after completing the tour. "This is the rec room and our final stop, the hall to the exit is just through the door on the other side. That's all for our facility." She said, ending it, and letting the agents roam freely if they wished.

Grey chimes in with a quick nod, being cool and serious. "Perfect. Everything seems to be in order. Thank you for your time." And, they part ways from the guild.

Eve slowly stops as she passes a crowd passing by. Feet pass by her and a few sets spots as well. She turns to see a set of eyes staring at her, a brightly, awe-struck, and one grimacing at her. Two men stand beside Eve now facing one another, and she speaks up first. "Uh, can I help you?"

The shorter man, whose eyes were gleaming up at Eve, gasping at the moment she acknowledged them. "You're an agent? What unit? The main one? What's your ability? Do you get into fights with a lot of peop- ?!" They go on in an excited tangent. A hand waved in front of the stop the short man from continuing, as he was going to.

The taller man looks down at what seemed like this acquaintance, and huffs tiredly, looking back to Eve. "Don't mind Kassy here. He can't help but go gaga, whenever an agent stops by."

Eve chuckles, and waves a hand. "Oh, hehe, it's no worries. I'm Agent Maestro, a new agent. Do agents come by a lot?"

The taller man looks to his friend, emphasizing. "Maybe not as 'some' would like, but they pop in whenever they need to inspect something. What are you inspecting now?"

Eve's eyes went wide more a moment, she waves a hand. She didn't want this to sound like it was for something serious or secretive. More like, for their protection. "Oh, we're just here partly because I wanted to see the facility. It's my first time here."

The short man, Kassy apparently, jumps up and excitedly blurts out. "We hope you like it!"

Eve let's put a small, low chuckle. "Well, I'm not here to judge anything, but making sure you all are doing okay here."

The taller man speaks up, giving his opinion. "It's not the worst. Better than nothing, or obviously going to prison, or something." He seems to speak honestly, I'm his own opinion.

The short man nods at them, turning to Eve, and adding on. "It's still not bad. It's just like living in a dorm again."

Eve tilts her head dramatically, anxiously wondering. "Some can request to live elsewhere under observation, can they not?"

The taller man's eyes shift down to the floor and to the side. He looked back more sternly speaking. "Hmph, well... some. But, there's also those who CAN'T control their powers enough to be convinced to leave. Or, they showed off their powers, and are stuck here till the agency's not worried about them."

That was news to Eve, and didn't know how well other were with their powers. She had aids and training, so she no longer has her abilities come through randomly. She hadn't know others to have issues, but the agency taught them how to manage them in courses. "That's... I'm sorry. I don't know a lot about the agency, up until recently." She looks down speaking, feeling bad and helpless.

The taller man replies, tired and plainly. He didn't have much hope, like Eve did. "I can tell. But, it's not like it'll change anything...."

Eve's eyes gleam a bit of hope, and a bit of sadness. "Well, changes happen. And hopefully, and agency can change for the better."

The tall man lets out a small chuckle. "You're a pretty optimistic agent, heh. Well, good luck with making a change, Agent."

Eve waves off, giving a warm smile, then heading back to her partner. "I just hope you all take care."

Eve walks faster to catch up with Grey. He turns as she's right beside him walking. As she approaches, he tilts his head and asks. "Anything?" Wondering what Eve and the others were talking about.

Eve rubs her chin in thought, then looks over to Grey. "I feel like I understand why rebels exist, the more I'm here."

Grey suddenly was taken back by her statement. "-?! I- Pardon?" As if he heard wrong, he had no idea how she thought that.

Eve's expression was so light and innocent, but the words came so seriously. "This place is like a pretty looking ward. Many can't get out, so they try to make do, or suffer in captivity."

The agency wasnt blinded by that fact, but they found it in their power that couldn't change that. However, Grey felt like he was being blamed, for some odd reason. He clarifies. "I... The agency has their reasons, but I also understand your concern. No decision the agency could make would have everyone happy. This way... at least they're not considered dangerous, experimented on, or a use for the agency." He thought it was the best, as the agency did. But, Eve would differed.

Eve stressed in her voice how serious this was now. We waved a hand in explaining her view. "You try to cap the issues, it doesn't go away. Just build up, and explode if the agency's not careful. You can't hide the truth, forever. I've learned that from you."

Grey growled a bit, not out of anger, but how he couldn't prove her wrong exactly. "We try to keep it under wraps as much as we can. That's why we can't stress enough if something big were to go wrong."

Eve tilted her head and gave a worried look. Something in her eyes poured out compassion, rather than judgment. "And, what happens if it does, or is already in the process of it?"

Grey thought silently, glaring at his partner. "I'd only hope, for the agency's sake, it won't. But, the whole world would also have hell to pay." He gruffly spoke.

Eve brings a hand to her face. She drops her expression, in a sad tone. "Secrets... really are bad. It's difficult to see any secret or lie as better. You can't mask what people are. We didn't have a choice to be born this way."

Grey speaks in a heavy tone. "No one does... Or choose to live in a society like this willingly. Maestro, please... Just keep going along with things. None of us really have a choice in the matter, once the government's involved...." He extended a hand, almost wanting to comfort her slightly.

Eve drops her shoulders and tiredly scowls at her partner. "That's not very reassuring, Grey. But, alright. I'll promise you I'll try not to." And she walks off, Grey walking right beside her out.

The trip was slightly different than anticipated, but nothing was wrong with their visit. It was only how made them feel about it, especially for Eve. Once in the parking lot, it sounded like someone quickly shouted out from the entrance.

Eve turns around, questioning. "What's that?" The small commotion from behind them started to get louder as the situation was just being processed.

Quickly with that, a person flies past them, unexpectedly. Then a security guard came running after them. "STOP!" Security shouted.

The one that looked like they were fleeing didn't stop running. They turn their head back shouting. "I can't! I can't do this!!"

More security runs past. "They're escaping!" One calls out from the group.

The escapee had tears following their trail, with security close behind. They turn back with fear and sadness in their eyes, as they cry out. "I can't stay here, when SHE'S out there, alone!" They ran, clawing through the air in a panic, as if it were to help them move faster.

It wasn't effective, and security caught up with the escapee and apprehended them. They kicked and thrashed, pleading. "Please let me go! I need her! I can't live without her!" The escapee reaches a hand out, being dragged farther than where they were trying to reach.

Eve in this whole scene was in wide-eyed shock, and her eyes started to tear up the more the escape cried out. "I can't live like this without her by my side! She's more than a normal human! She loves me, FOR ME!!" They kept shouting and crying in utter despair.

Grey looks to Eve as she's frozen, watching the commotion. The escapee was being taken back inside, so Grey calls her attention back to the car. "Maestro, let's just go. It's been enough excitement for one day. We'll report all that we saw here." He walks off slowly, watching his partner.

The escapee shrieks in the background as they grab the doorway as a last resort before being swept back inside. "LET ME GO!! PLEASE!!"

Eve's eyes flutter down and she cups her mouth with her hand. "I... I think I'm going to be sick...." She wasn't nauseous exactly, but there was a painful knot in her stomach from the devastation. Her mouth was hidden as she bit on her lip, trying not to cry in a public setting.

Grey places a hand on Eve's shoulder, gently guiding her away from the scene. "They're going to be alright. They're not in trouble by any means. We still understand people's want to leave. Once they're calm, the heads here will try to reason with them."

Eve looks at Grey a bit more collected, so she could ask. "Would they ever get a way to see that person again?" They were shouting for someone, whoever 'her' was to them, like their life depended on it. It was sad to see them separated from their love.

Grey brushes his gaze away, back to the car as they head back. "I... don't know that myself. It's whatever the situation calls for."

The get in the car and drive off, leaving the scene behind. That was that, or the agents experience, and their conversations about it earlier. Nothing happened after that, as Grey and Eve go back to the unit, while other agents stay out on a search around the city.

It was a quiet drive back. Which wasn't new for Grey, but Eve was uncharacteristically quiet. She seemed lost in thought about what happened back at the facility. Knowing Eve, she was silent from the overwhelming thoughts and feelings she was having. Too much for her to process all at once.

Grey parks at the agency, and looks back at his partner, who was still out of it. "Still startled from before? I swear people escaping don't usually come about frequently. They must have been new, just not handling the situation fully yet." He tried to reassure Eve.

They sit quiet. As once debating on escaping before, Eve knew that feeling all too well. How saddening it feels, she couldn't help but feel their pain. "I... understand that." She didn't sound convinced that things were okay, however.

Grey leans slightly closer to get a good view of Eve's face, as he asks. "Are you okay?" He honestly sounded a bit worried.

Eve tries to quickly wave off Grey's worry, physically fanning her hand as well. "Why wouldn't I be? It's fine... it just brings back old worries." Her voice got lower at the thoughts of before. She could help but drop her expression naturally.

It's not like Grey wanted to push her, and his reassurance wouldn't be much help still, but he tried to be reasonable. "We really are trying our best in our efforts in these facilities. We try to make it the best we can." He couldn't stress enough on how hard they try to keep order around here.

Eve saw through it with her own fresh eyes, getting used to a society like theirs wasn't fun but for the best. Even so, she saw better options. "No matter how pretty you make it look, it still feels like a cage. A pretty prison, with little knowledge of its existence. They're just there because the agency placed them there."

With that, Eve gets out of the car and walks off quickly, leaving Grey behind to quickly follow. Things felt like their were unfinished, but Eve was the one hesitant to discuss it, and Grey not to bother for her sake. They stayed silent once again as they reached their floor. The director had just exited his office, and looked over at them. They walked over, as it was on their way to their desks.

The director waves at them, greeting them with a bright, cheerful smile, as always. "Welcome back, Agents. How was the housing facility?" He tilts his head, still smiling.

Eve doesn't say a work or look the director in the eyes. She looked pale and anxious. Oracle looks at her curiously, then turns his head to Grey, a little confused. Grey explains, replying to the question, as Eve stays silent. "There was an escapee, but was captured. Everything else was fine, nothing new." That explained everything.

Director Oracle now understood better. "How did you feel, Maestro?" He asked, facing her.

Eve sheepishly looks up and responds. "... Bad." She tiredly let out. She was the only one not used to the gloomy parts, and may not ever get used to it. She holds herself with her arms crossed. She speaks out loud at what she saw that was bugging her. "Someone was just trying to run to the person they loved. People just live with being a whisper. Free will is less of a thing for them, than a normal person, or even us."

The director thinks deeply at how Eve must have felt. He tries to console her. "I know it might seem a bit unfair. But, we try to make as many opportunities out there for our ability users. The facility acts for those who couldn't find any others to be placed in. It's still as homely as we can make it."

Eve took a step forward, waving her hands out. "But, how could they have anywhere else to go? They couldn't! You brought them into the agency. They can't control things that they, or even you, can't fully understand! They can't train up their powers to leave, if you don't have an option for them to grow."

Grey tiredly warned. Though he wasn't upset, his voice was worried and gave off a more serious tone. "Eve, careful getting too heated right now."

The director speaks, shaking his head in his hands. "No, Eve is right, and we fail our people in this way. We can't handle every need properly, so we took different measures, you could say. We can't help those who struggle, though we should. In a way, I apologize for that mess, and how we can't help our case."

Eve's voice peaks in question, and hoping. "Can we make an effort, if I can successfully teach the scientists magic, that we implement some more traditional training and practices for our kind? Can we bring back alchemy and herbal medicines? Even teaching our past history and biology. W- we should start finding more ways for our people. More options, that just the agency's. Or even for one that decided to band a rebellion. There must be another way."

Grey breathes a sigh. He intervenes, speaking before the director would give any kind of answer. "Just don't start getting ahead of yourself, Eve."

Oracle nervously waves a hand to calm the gloom mood. He didn't want to promise anything impossible, but feasible. "Please do give us some time, and we can try to find some better solutions. We still don't understand a lot. So, if you can help us in our efforts to do so, we'll try our best. For our kind."

Eve excitedly jumps at the idea. She clasps her hands together, speaking sporadically. Please, that's all I wish! Now that there's already a heavy system placed, mistakes don't go away, but they can be fixed. We can take this as a learning experience for ability users, and grow as a people. Not have our people silently wither away from existence."

Oracle smiles, glad. Something felt hopeful for them, like they could really start fixing things. "Fair point. I'll see that the next time we meet, it'll be planning for better options, or for meeting your mentor, who will also help with this."

Eve lowers her head, pulling a hand on her heart as it felt heavy with mixed feelings. "Thank you. Have a good rest of your day, Oracle."

Oracle nods briefly, then turns as he says farewell. "Take care, agents." He grins lightly, only as a natural response. But, it was a worrisome goodbye. One that hopefully won't compromise Eve's willingness with the agency.

Hurdles in the way, thing felt heavy like they did before. Grey, and even the director, didn't want to push Eve farther, but new recognition and people coming up to her, didn't help. Her praise started to make her have second guesses of what she was doing. She helped take down a illegal auction, that's good, but not every case felt the same. Like the kid in the alley, and changing their life forever. She didn't want to find herself in another case that makes her question herself again.

____________________________________________

The workday for the partner agents went on long and quiet, ever since the events at the housing facility. It's been a while since Eve had a quiet moment. Not since after the big blowout she had, and ran off once. Eve was feeling unsure about the agency again. She was having second thoughts if she was really doing the right thing to trust them, following directions, and even showing secretive discoveries with.

Once it was time to clock out, Eve gets up and grabs her bag. She was too mentally tired to stay any longer. She turns her head to Grey. He didn't seem to be getting up, or face her, and just keeps his focus on his computer for some time. 

Before Eve said anything, Grey briefly cocks his head and talks over his shoulder. "A moment, Maestro. Go on ahead, I'm going to stay for a bit longer." He typed away, staring at his screen, not making any eye contact.

Eve was curious but didn't pay much mind. It was to probably work more, so collects the rest of her stuff, then shifts her eyes to her partner. "... Don't stay too late. Have a good night, Grey." She plainly spoke and then walked away. Once she faced the other way, Agent Grey watched her with sad, tired eyes.

A few hours had passed, and it had gotten late, many employees had left, and the night crews were already clocking on. Grey had stayed in the building as it became late at night, as he used to on many occasions, just to keep working. Their floor became less crowded, and much more quiet. Oracle was still in his office working, even after hours.

A knock was heard at the director's door. Curious to see, Grey pops his head through the doorway, announcing his presence that way. Oracle greets him, speaking up over the small silence. "Hello, Grey. Heading out?"

Grey eyes the director sitting at his desk. He coolly walks in, answering hem. "I was working for a bit longer. I actually wanted to speak with you, on a more personal matter." He nubs the neck of his neck, feeling oddly and slight nervous. But, this face was fairly serious still.

Director Oracle turns from his computer to face Grey. He props his elbows on his desk, and rests his head lightly on the backs of his hands. "Oh? Been a while since we've had a casual chat. You rarely stop by my office, just to talk. Or, even grab some drinks together, like old times. It might be a good change." He beamed, calm and cheerful as always.

Grey pulls out a seat and chuckles lightly. "Heh, yet you don't need to go out of your office to drink. Or, really anything for that matter." He lounges into a seat, giving a grin with his light joke.

The director chuckles with a wide smile that closed his eyes. When he stopped, his eyes immediately fixed to his bottom desk drawer. "Ah, true. Speaking of which, scotch?" He brings a bottle from over the desk, swishing it around in his hand.

Grey didn't decline, but watched as the director quickly got up from his seat to grab glasses, and looked for if he had any ice. The director pours two glasses and hands one to Grey. He sits back down, getting adjusted again. He drinks, and Grey just holds his contemplating if he should. Whatever soon convinces him, Grey downs half of it in one gulp. He felt like he suddenly needed a strong drink to think about what's been plaguing his mind.

The director cuts the silence, getting back to business. "So, what's it you wanted to talk about?" Now that they were settled down to talk, he's all ears for Grey, as a friend, rather than a boss.

Grey keeps his eyes fixed down at his glass. "Eve. After the facility today, I'm worried she's having second thoughts, again." His voice gruffly sounded worried.

Oracle nods lightly. "That's more expected than not. It's partly good she seems to have an overly good conscience. It's not very good, if she turns on us." He takes a nervous sip. His eyes softened and his smile faded at the thought. It's was a worrisome thought to both, for different reasons.

Grey brings a hand to his face, still looking away and hiding his expression subtly. "It's more to it. She's supposed to help us, but what if she can't? What if our situation is irreversible?" His voice started to raise slightly from his normally hushed tone.

The director tilts his head and tries to give a sympathetic smile. "You're really taking this, and having a partner seriously. I'm glad to see you care about Eve."

Grey avoids Oracle's eyes when they speak. the agent didn't want to admit to anything other than serious speculation about work, even off hours. He keep averting his glare, trying to act coolly as usual, though it felt difficult somehow. "I'm... It's not like I had a choice anyways. I just found it wasn't terrible working with her. But, there's so much at stake now, and for what? This mission... sigh seems way out of reach." He let out a tired sigh then propped his head back, staring at the ceiling.

Oracle folds his hands on his desk, and nods his head thinking. However, the director was more optimistic than Grey. "Well, you're our best ally to her, as of now. She trusts you the most. Maybe she can help, we still have to give her methods a try." Oracle open-mindedly sought for the truth. Finding more about their people was crucial to their mission.

Grey darts his eyes back at the director. His grey eyes were becoming purple mist, cloaking what usually was a cold, steely expression. Now, Grey's eyes were wide and frantic, emotion pouring out like the misty glow as he spoke. "But, what if that trust is ever broken, again? What if she'll end up hating us? What do we do then?!" He blurted out, voice raising and sounding worried. He was going out of control, for someone who's always been so collected, even with their power.

The director was almost taken back for a moment. But, he sat very still and quiet, before bringing up the question. "Us... or you? You've never seemed to have cared about that before." He raises his brow.

Grey suddenly realized he was going haywire. Him, and his ability, was getting out of control. He kept his eyes glued to the director across the desk. He tightened his eyes to make everything stop. To stop himself. But then, he heard the director's voice in the back of his mind.

'You like her, don't you?'

Grey opens his eyes. He stumbles up out of his seat abruptly. Standing up, almost as if he was about to flee. He looks a the director, knowing it came from him. "What- ?! N- nonsense." Grey blurted out quickly. He was so in shock, but he didn't sound convincing to the director.

'You like her, Grey.'

The director narrows his eyes at Grey, and smirks wickedly. He didn't say anything, but Grey heard exactly what he was assuming. And, he assumed right.

Grey started to calm down a bit. He sat back down, and his eyes slowly faded back to normal. His face slightly flushed in a pink hue from embarrassment. His composure still wasn't there, but he answered. "It'll never matter, or be mentioned. She likes someone already...." Grey's voice drops in a saddened tone. He looked defeated, hunching over and averting his eyes.

Oracle plainly asks. "Are they together?"

Grey shook his head. He sighs as he briefly explains. "No... They have a complicated relationship, but they like each other." He kept his head down, knowing that his feelings were selfish, wrong, and would never come to be.

But, the director gave his own input. "Then, there's nothing that says you're evil for feeling this way. Who knows, I'd think you'd have a shot." He then smiled widely, chuckling happily.

Grey gave a short, pitiful laugh. He leans back, rubbing his head. "Heh, really... I find that so doubtful...." Grey's eyes looked as sad and lonely as he sounded.

Oracle gave a light sigh, and shook his head. "You always doubt yourself, Cain. When will you ever open up to someone, again? She's special to you, I can see it. You've definitely gotten more attached to her." His smile was still there, but what he said was more serious than his expression lead to believe.

Grey scoffed, crossing his arms, and acting aloof. "Well, it's hard to avoid my partner, or not be around her... It's just bad, because she's going through a lot right now. Even her personal life is wrapped in our mess. I can't add more worry to her list." His expression kept melting away the more he talked about Eve. It was like his act was fading. His cool was definitely far from what he was feeling.

Oracle looks away and coughs into his fist. He thought otherwise, even if he's not involved in any of this. "It might end up making things complicated between you two, so be careful with that." He gave input. He didn't think Eve could be pushed away from the agency, but it would stress working there, worst case being he believed.

Grey brings his hands to his face, sighing loudly into them. "God... I haven't liked someone in ages. Why her, of all people?" He whined in a gruff tone.

Oracle leans to one side of his chair, giving a big, toothy chuckle. "Heh, maybe because she's the only one that can break down your walls you've built up over the years." He slightly teased, but also meant it.

Grey laughed somberly. He never looks at the director, as he speaks in a gruff, but almost whimpering tone. "She's really good at letting herself in too... She may tease, but never harshly judges me. Never shied away, like some... So pleasant when she's around. I don't know how I'd feel, if she'd avoid me now." The words just came out. His heart felt heavy just at the thought.

Oracle quickly gave a response, knowing practically for certain. "She won't. Even if something happens, I don't think she'll give you the cold shoulder forever. You're the person she goes to, the only person she's gotten close to here. That's something." And he drinks a little from his glass. He could see it, everytime Eve mentions something new, Grey's heard it first. Oracle had a point.

Grey slumps in his seat. He huffs then sombers, putting his head tiredly in his hand. "And, it's because of a mere peaceful agreement we have, and how she's just so friendly. I'm just having to spend lots of time with her, more than most."

Oracle puts a hand to his face, thinking. After quick pondering, he shrugs. "Most, yes. But besides work, you don't often see each other."

If Grey agreed, it would have been a lie. He probably wanted to be honest, to really have Oracle understand that situation better. But, it was hard to admit as he nervously begged to differ. "... A- actually, we uh... hangout in her apartment sometimes, off duty. Usually have dinner, and chat together." He scratched his head, looking away. He wanted to brush off the fact.

Grey looks back, and the director had the most dumbly widest grin he could make, and eyes looking smugly at the agent. Grey huffs and crosses his arms, looking away. His face became a bit heated, but he growled in a serious and harsh tone. "Don't make that face. I don't even need to read what you're thinking." He disapprovingly looks back at the director.

Oracle laughs. He goes back to his usual, cheerful mood. He props his head on a fist, being more casual as he speaks. "You know me well, as old agents do. I may have been here for longer, but we've been friends for a long while now. Since day one you first started, even."

Grey lightly chuckled, but he slowly looked more lost in thought, and sad. "Heh, seems like a long time ago to remember... I still don't think about those times." Though, for Grey it was hard to forget.

Oracle beams regardless, and to move on from the touchy subject. "Well, there's always new memories to make, good ones. I'm sure your partner can help you with that." He then smirks.

Grey's eyes go wide and he blushes. "Cough- ?! I- I'll be going. Don't forget to clock off before you have an all-nighter, and sleep at your desk, again. I'll see you in the morning. Have a good night, Leo." He quickly gets up, and turns his head to the door.

The director waves Grey off as he leaves. "Try to take care, Cain." He smiled innocently, even as Grey left, he could hear it in his voice that he was. Both parties knew the director was going to have another long night cooped up in his office. 

For a whole workweek, Grey never left Eve's side. Which, for work-partners, seemed like they were just working together, but Grey had been watching his partner intensely. He even followed Eve to her door on a few late nights, just because he didn't trust her to behave when he took his eyes off her.

Eve was finally able to free herself from her partner, and have a day off for herself. She needed a break from Grey. Technically, a break from any work, rebels, rouges, and criminals at the very least on her day off.

Eve wanted to relax, in a way, that also involves performing, and spreading infectious smiles to feel better. She gets dressed in a princely attire, hugs Sam, takes a violin case in tow, and heads out to the city park. Right now, nothing could break Eve's stride today, not Grey, not the agency, nothing. It wasn't till walking past the large S.O.U. building, that something catches Eve, her stride, off guard.

"OH!! SUNSHINE!!" A voice called out as Eve's walking towards the park. She naturally turned confused, not even knowing if someone was calling for her. She was used to many nicknames, and 'Sunshine' sounded familiar to her, from something.

Eve goes wide-eyed as she stares at the figure that was running right to her. Their face was partly covered, but their large, tall frame, and voice she finally recognized. "Huh...-?! YOU!" Eve looks at the figure and points at him in shock. It was 'Mr. Gas Mask'.

That same nickname but different appearance. No gas mask this time but dark sunglasses and a beanie snug low on his head. His hair was more seen, or now down, long, and protruding out of this hat. It was a rebel, the same one she held off back in the alley. The one she chased into a trap.

He waves again, making sure he's got Eve's attention, or making sure she doesn't run. "Heeey! Recognize my voice, right?"

Eve gasped. "What are you doing here- ?!" She hushed herself, realizing she shouldn't be talking aloud to the rebel. But, she still wanted to know.

To others, they seemed normal, but to people like them, they were enemies. Eve was off duty as an agent, so she couldn't really do anything. It could become dangerous, just because she's interacting with him.

The rebel smirked. His smile was the only thing not covered. The man calmly raises his hands up, and shrugs. "Hey, can't a guy go out for the weekend? I just happened to see you walk by, and knew it was you... I was hoping to see you again, Sunshine. It must be fate." He smiled goofily down at Eve.

Eve stays silent and looks at him coldly, not as happy to see him than he is. She doesn't want to make a scene nor get him angry. But, Eve could physically stop herself from clutching on her case and bag tightly, while her shoulders tense up.

The familiar rebel looks Eve up and down, noticing her full attire. "What's with the cute get-up, Sunshine? You look like a character from a fairytale."

Eve turns away, brushing his gaze off. "Hmph!! I just dress like this! I was just going out for a bit."

The man looks over her shoulder to see a case for a small instrument. "Huh? Is that a violin or somethin'? Ya play instruments? That's cool. Could I maybe follow and watch you, then?" He asked so casually and nonchalantly.

Eve gets close to the guy so she can whisper-yell. "I should take you into the agency. You're still a wanted criminal." She cuts to the chase, since it was a tense situation with opposite sides interacting like this.

If she could see it, the rebel looked widely at Eve when she warned him. "Oh wow, you got so close to my ear, it's hard to listen if you-" He unintentionally got flustered by Eve, instead of worried or intimidated. It didn't seem like he even registered what Eve said to him.

Eve, fed up by his remark, shouts instead. The guy jolts, and Eve turns away frustrated. "Shut it! Nevermind! You're not a very good guy, but I do need answers from you." She crossed her arms in a huff, then glared over her shoulder coldly at the shadow figure.

Trying to make Eve sure Eve didn't get more upset, he smiles, and asks. "Answers? What do you want to know? You can ask me anythin', haha."

Eve asks what was on her mind the first time she met the group of rebels. "What do you want? You, and your gang."

She had spoken so seriously, the rebel was taken back by what Eve said. "W- Wha? I don't know what ya mean. I know we got off on the wrong foot, but you gotta understand where I'm comin' from, right? We wanna be free, like you." The tall shadow-user waved his giant hands protesting.

Eve looks down skittishly as she speaks honestly. "Well... I understand. But, I think it's best if things are taken with a diplomatic approach, rather than a rebellious one." 

Eve wanted to take some things seriously, like what abilities meant, and the practices their kind can could do. She also wanted to live rebelliously, by using her magic in public. If it weren't for the consequences, and the weight now placed on Eve's shoulder, she would've continued her old lifestyle, or just leave to where she could.

The shadow rebel seems convinced. He didn't see it counting as being brainwashed by the agency, which was definitely good. "Hehe, you're really smart too. That's why I think you'd help us, too. Right now, we don't really have much of a society. Just outlaws, running."

For a moment, Eve looked shocked, and a bit saddened. She shook her head and scowled at the rebel. "Oh-... S- still! You fought, and that can't be excused. I don't want any harm while I'm around, so you better be careful, or else!" She barked, clutching her fists together tightly.

The rebel chuckles with a deep, hearty laugh. "You're so cute and scary sometimes, Sunshine. But, ya got a good heart!" He lightly nudges Eve's shoulder, chuckling and beaming to himself.

Eve takes a step away and scowls upwards at the rebel. "Why do you keep calling me that?"

The rebel scratches his head, repeating in question. "Hm? Sunshine? 'Cause you're as bright and as beautiful as the morning sun~" He hummed.

Eve turns on her heels and starts walking the other direction. "Never mind talking to you, I must get going. Bye...."

The rebel walks briskly, with his giant steps practically doubling Eve's smaller ones. He waves his arm out trying to call out to her. "Waaait~ but where ya going? I want to follow you." He whined.

Eve whips back about to snap at him, as the rebel fumbles his footing to suddenly stop in front of her. "Oh my galaxies... You're so annoyi- ing?" Eve impulsively pushed his face away from hers, knocking his sunglasses off on accident. His beanie slid back and something moved on his forehead, covered by a bit of hair and shade. She then sees his eyes were black and voided, looking widely at her.

He closes his eyes tightly after looking at her surprised, and feels for his glasses blindly on the ground. He tries his best to put them back on his face without seeing. Eve sees a better, a line across his forehead, bulged out, and slightly scrunching up. And, if Eve was mistaken, she saw what looked like eyelashes, like it was another eye. He gets his glasses back on and hat covering over his head fully. She didn't fully get to confirm her suspicions.

The rebel kneeled, facing away from Eve. He sighs loudly, not wanting to look back. He slowly peers over his shoulder, somber. "You saw, didn't you?... Just don't scream, 'kay?..." He hugged his beanie lower on his face, worried.

Eve looked at him puzzled, but not because of his look. More that people would freak out if someone was different, being abnormal a bit physically, but still. She's been numbed from the sorcery, and working at the agency, to fear the unknown. "Sigh... Seriously, my life is anything but normal You don't scare me in the slightest. But, you'd be useful if you'd just turn yourself in, now."

The shadow rebel points at himself, and mouth wide in shock. "You don't mine my eyes? Do... ya think I'm handsome, then?" He holds his hands to his cheeks like a child, but an 'annoying' child at that.

"-?! Enough. I don't have time for this...." Eve uses a cloaking spell, which no one notices, though it was still prohibited to do in public. She desperately wanted to leave the situation, stepping into a sea of ongoing citizens, and disappearing away in a crowd.

Eve was able to get to the market, and run off to the park, hopefully alone. She didn't want to run into the shadow rebel again. But, if she could corner him, she could use her light powers on him if he pestered her too much. She eventually takes a small break before performing to sit on a park bench, and set up. She has bags and flowers placed around her sides. 

Eve sighs, and her usual smile lessens as she looks down. She places her arms crossed on her knees. "... You're here, aren't you?" She said aloud, looking down at the concrete below her.

The outline of Eve's shadow shook at the vibrations of a voice that mysteriously came from the ground. "Heh, how'd ya know? You're so clever~!" A voice hums delighted. An 'annoying' voice, Eve would say.

Eve mumbles tiredly as she props her head on her fist sighing. "Jeez, can't you leave me alone? We're at a truce for today, no fights, no illegal activities. You following me, when I kept telling you not to, and using your powers, are not making me happy right now..."

Eve sees her shadow twitched, and the bushes behind her suddenly shakes. She turns to see the man from before, popping out of a bush to sit next to her, and her stuff on the bench. She uses the bags as a way to push him further away. He just leaned in closer.

The shadow rebel was practically stuck to Eve like her own shadow. Eve spoke calmly, and slowly as she tried to keep her anger from affecting her attitude. "Again... I wanted you to leave me be."

The rebel stood tall and unmoving from Eve's side. He was so eager to follow her, after trying to shake him off with her cloak. Eve huffs and whips her head away. He hums, oddly pleased as he stares at Eve pouting. "Oh, well getting to know you isn't so bad, is it? It wouldn't hurt, right?" He inched closer.

Eve slides farther away, the more he came closer. "Well... if you'd stop being a flirt, I would be more forward to getting to know your side. But, I want to learn it from someone else...."

Eve gets up, which the rebel quickly gets up as well. He didn't want Eve to try to disappear. He called out, coolly speaking though he was practically sweating. "Okay, I'll stop... Only if you agree to hangout with me first."

Eve looks at the rebel, at her wits end. "Sigh... I have stuff I need to put in the fridge, so it can't take too long."

The rebel walks along with Eve. "We could drop that off-?!"

Eve whips around and holds a hand out to stop the rebel. "No. You are not to find out where I live... We can talk for a bit, but I'd like to not stay for too long. So, deal?"

The tall rebel wraps an arm around his waist, propping his other arm upright, and tapping a finger to his lips, thinking it over. "Hm.... hmm- Alright, it's a date." He's quickly gave a thumbs up agreeing.

Eve snaps loudly from shock. "IT'S NOT A DATE!" Eve hissed with fiery in her eyes. She whips her head and huffs shortly and is annoyed. "Hmph! I'm regretting this already... Sigh, let's just get this over with." She walks off briskly.

The rebel perked up and walks beside Eve, as they start walking around the park. "Heh, no problem. So, where would ya like to go first?"

Eve just moved her eyes to look at the rebel unsure. "First? I just went out, and was about to perform. I don't have any plan of action in this situation."

The shadow rebel faces Eve, unlike her. He scratches his head, while keeping his cap securely on him. "Hm... Well, a stroll to get to know each other wouldn't hurt, right? Maybe we'll see somethin' along the way." The rebel walks on ahead, as Eve then trails behind him. 

"Well, before that..." Eve tried to reach the tall rebel's head, and paint him in a camouflage charm. He stopped, feeling tingling and sparkly, which was interesting.

He looks at his clothes and arms as they go from shiny, back to formal in an instant. "What did you do? Make me bright and glittery like you, hehe?"

Eve looks away and speaks in a hushed tone. "Just a bit of camouflage, in case we're spied on, or you use your power again. 'Course, I just used some power, but it's not my light power..." Eve shrugged.

The rebel looks down at the body again, more just amazed at the magic he can't see. He didn't need to hide in shadows to be practically invisible now. "Cool~!" He looks at Eve in awe of her ability.

Eve waves him off, and turns to him seriously with a hand on her hip, leaning. "Yeah, yeah... What's your name, or something to call you?"

The rebel thinks for a moment, pondering with a finger to his chin. "Mm... Shadow~?" He gave a goofy smile.

Eve shrugs, unamused. Even she could come up with that one, easily. The shadow figure chuckles, proudly at his own nickname. She scoffs, then responding in an annoyed tone. "Hm, yes it's fitting. You're an inky invisible darkness, and I'm a blinding bright light. We're polar opposites in power, all the more making us enemies." Eve twitches her finger, insinuating how it looked when his shadow form was hit with light.

Shadow turns abruptly, leaning his face close to Eve's. "Or... star-crossed lovers." He hummed.

Eve jumps back sporadically with her arms clutched close to her chest. She stutters and flails her arms dramatically in frustration. "I- I mean, POWER-WISE, we cannot work well! I hurt you the first time, remember? Touching you with light hurts, right?" She put her hands on her hips, while proving a point.

Shadow nervously chuckles, but smiles still. "Ah, well... I see that. Yeah, you got me pretty good... twice. The sun's also a lot hotter and blinding for me. I'm light-sensitive. The glasses and hat are more than just for looks, heh." He scratched his head, remembering it was actually quite painful. More painful than just standing in the summer sun-rays without any cover, for him.

Eve walks faster so she passes in front of the rebel, scowling at him. "Well, you have a problem sticking around me. I could just burn you till you're a twitching, inky goo, again." Eve waves, shooing him away, and huffs tired.

Shadow slumped his shoulders down and pouted his lips. Eve could just assume his eyes were looking like a sad puppy. Shadow didn't want to be looked at as a gross pest, so it seemed. But, he was a pest, in her eyes. Regardless, Eve crosses her arms and then mutters annoyed. "Don't make that sad face. We're at a truce today. I won't try to do anything with light, on purpose. I'm off the clock and power usage should be limited. I'm not even allowed to perform with powers anymore. That sucks for me!"

Shadow goes back to the chuckling and smiling. He couldn't help but tease Eve before. Now, he's getting close to her, melodically cooing. "Aww, you could play for some outlaws, like my group! Then, you can use powers all ya' want."

Eve crosses her arms and huffs while looking away. "Tempting, we'll have to see what the future holds. Also! It might be good to mention, not now but someday I will want to know your side's perspective. I'm an advocate of sorts, and right now I'm just trying to find out the agency's plans. Peacefully, I might add."

"You're very interesting, Sunshine, y'know that? So determined and strong, I don't think I've never heard of anyone like you, especially working for the agency. And here I thought they were all a bunch of lap-dogs, heh." He chuckled, hugging his arms crossed around his giant frame.

Eve whips her head and scowls at them. "Hm, some. I see so many personalities and people. Work is work, many groan about it, but it's their lives. Not to mention, you do get paid, and not be tested on like a poor lab rat. I'm lucky it wasn't the worst, as I feared...." She looked away in thought, surprised herself it wasn't so bad than it was different.

Shadow chuckles, causing Eve to look up at him oddly. "Hehe, you're really cute, Sunshine."

Eve's lips scrunch up and her eyes wide. She crosses her arms and looks away, scolding Shadow. "Hmph!! If I'm so cute, you better not look down on me. I could fight you, and don't you DARE THINK THIS IS A DATE!! Truce and future alliance!" Eve barked, turning back to him.

Shadow smiles and nods, but it was like he didn't listen or brushed it off quickly. "Hehe, wanna get some ice cream? I want to repay you, somehow, for havin' to put up with me." He acted cool and beaming. At least he knew he was a bother.

Eve looked upset but still was trying to be reasonable. Regardless of wanting nothing more than to blast this rebel with the strongest light she could make. She just shrugs, not wanting to help the situation she didn't want part of.

On the way strolling around the sidewalk, Eve changes to gathering more information. "Tell me something, what's your side like?" Eve turns her head over to Shadow walking beside her.

Shadow pauses, and then shrugs while looking back at Eve. "Mm... Heh, hoodlum stuff. We have a small crowded base of sorts, that's also our home. We take in superhumans that we find. Mostly a shelter. We're like family."

Eve hums while trying to imagine what it was like. It didn't sound the best, but there had to be its perks too. "Hm, and do you like it?" She wondered.

Shadow shrugs again, a little more unsure. "It's okay. I'd say better than having someone breathing down your neck all the time." He gives a tired smile.

They end up finding themselves back at the park. After the time spent away, it was less crowded. Coming back was different than before, now that Eve is less tense about the rebel following her.

Shadow stops suddenly, and walks a bit backwards. Eve turns curiously to a frozen treats stand. It seemed he was able to coax them to getting ice cream. Eve hesitantly goes over, they order, and she quickly goes to get out her wallet and pays for both. The man working at the stand simply takes her payment, and hands them an order of chocolate, and strawberry ice cream.

Shadow whips his head face back and forth from the stand, to Eve, shocked. "Wha- Wait! I was supposed to pay." Shadow felt even more guilty for bugging her, had he known Eve would be so quick and sly.

Eve eyes the rebel, and chuckles at his attempt to be the one that pays. "It's not a date, remember? I just thought I'd pay, since I'm pretty set with my income." She calmly goes to eat hers, since she was treating herself as well.

Shadow chuckles deeply under his breath. He stares at Eve with a carefree smile plastered on his face. "Oh yeah, being an idol and all?"

Eve stops focusing on ice cream, back to Shadow, alarmed. "-?! Di- did I ever say I was an 'idol'?" Her eyes looked widely at the rebel. He wouldn't, and shouldn't, know that detail about her personal life.

Shadow quickly looks around after realizing what he said. He tries to keep his smile, and voice from acting suspicious. "Maybe...? I would assume being an amazing performer, you must be an idol! It was just phrasing, I guess, heh...." He chuckles, loud and nervously.

Shadow was hoping it was a lot more convincing the more excited and frantic he was. Eve however, did not look convinced as she scowled at him angrily. The back of her hairs stand up, getting tense from worry.

Shadow could even fill Eve's gaze as she burns circles into him. "Haha, I guess I'm busted...?"

Shadow raises his hands as if surrendering. "I might... have tried to look you up, and surprisingly found a lot about you. Nothing bad though! Just that you're ah... 'Starlight', not Sunshine." He waved his hands, trying to explain himself to her, but he made it worse.

Eve gets straight to the point, questioning the same thing she's practically asked the whole time. "Why? Why are you stalking me?" She still couldn't think of the real reasons herself.

Shadow waves his arms out trying to protest. He didn't want to be seen as a creep. Even if he was, but still explaining his actions. "E- eh, I don't really mean it to stalk. Seeing you was a coincidence. I just wanted to know what you're like. And, before asking why, again, it's because I think I've fallen for you." He went back to dumbly fawning over Eve.

Eve exhaled quickly, getting her frustration out. She scoffs and spoke harshly. "Well, don't be so forward. I've never dated someone, never kissed, never a CONSENSUAL romantic date. I've never done stuff some people find so natural, or rush into relationships...." She thinks of her personal woes, suddenly looking shyly away. 

Shadow tries to lean close to Eve's face, almost startling her. "I didn't know... Heh, you're naturally hard to chase, but someone has to win your heart."

Eve shouted while walking away. "That's absolutely not the case-!" She halted suddenly, realizing she didn't have to explain herself. Especially to someone who's considered a dangerous criminal.  Her eyes scowled at the shadow rebel, so disgustingly.

Shadow also drops his tone, but it sounded a little tired. Surprisingly not so cheery as before. "... Who is it? Is it the one guy that ran in to help you from before?"

Eve assumed his question exactly correct. In an outburst, Eve protests furiously. "No!! I just met that guy not long ago! The one I'm in love with- ! Er- ?! I- I just don't do romantic things... That's why you're wasting your time! And, I'm wasting mine being here...." Eve walks away leaving, having the last straw from the rebel. First he bugs her, follows her, researches her, and even asks about her personal matters. Eve can't put up with it anymore.

Eve, had no shot at gaining a way in with Shadow to the rebel side. He was just acting as a waste of time. She didn't have to stay, and she shouldn't have acknowledged him in the first place. The situation couldn't get any worse with an annoying enemy still hovering around Eve.

The rebel didn't want to let Eve go. It was like he needed her attention so badly. "Wait- stop! Starlight!" He ran towards her protesting.

The rebel accidentally collided into her. Fumbling his large hands out that knocked Eve's arms as he tried to stop, and braced Eve from being almost knocked off her feet. She almost dropped her violin case. But, in her other hand, she crushed her ice cream cone and it fell all over her. Ice cream got on her jacket, shirt, and painted one of her gloves. Pink, and buts of red splotches covered the clean white that was now underneath.

Eve turns and looks down at the cold mess that was sticking to her. She groaned tired and highly frustrated. If she made her drop her violin, she would have made him pay for the damage.

The rebel backs away now, realizing what they just did. "Gosh, I'm so sorry, Starlight." He said quickly in a panic. He leaned in, worried about her clothes.

Eve just whips her body away from him, but keeps her eyes burning holes again into the sunshades of the tall rebel. "Shut up already!!" She hissed venomously. She didn't care about anything but leaving.

The rebel continues to try to face Eve. He turns to her, his voice surprisingly saddened. "No, wait.... this." He lightly held Eve's jacket in his hand, which held most of her lapel that was stained.

He sighs worried. "I ruined your cool jacket. Oh no... I owe ya big-time..." He stared at the stains, worried. It was a fancy outfit, and no way he could get her a new one just like it.

Eve flings his hand away from her. "Don't touch me! And, don't call me Starlight, either...." She huffs and takes off her jacket. Her shirt that was stained, but her vest, pants, and one glove were intact.

Eve looked perfectly fine, apart from being angry. Still well-dressed even without the jacket. Shadow couldn't take his eyes off of her. Eve drapes the jacket over her arms and holds it. "My designer would kill me if I ruined this... This is why I don't wear my fancier stuff when I'm at work. Luckily, it's a thick material, so it's not super absorbent. But, I'll have to go get this cleaned immediately...."

Shadow lets the issue go, not wanting to make it any worse. "Oh, okay. Sorry again for the disturbance and ruining your jacket..."

"Oh well. Headache aside, I'd like to go now." As if she couldn't stress her frustrations enough, Eve should have found an excuse to leave much sooner. It would have spared the headache and ruined outfit.

Shadow looks at Eve, chuckling nervously. "Heh, will I be able to see you again? I want to make it up to you, somehow." He drew his question out, perking up slightly.

Eve stresses the importance by repeating herself to Shadow. She assumes it takes a lot to convince him. "Not alone... My goal is learn from your side too, but I need more people to talk to. If we ever meet again, you or I must have accompaniment. And, no more stalking."

Eve nagged on, and Shadow just nods at everything excitedly. "Yes, yes of course! Heck yeah! I'll promise to behave and do as you ask. I'll be a good boy~!"

Eve sighs annoyed and places a hand to her the bridge of her nose. "Ugh... Please don't do anything to make me regret this. I beg you, a million times over..."

"Mhm- Got it! Promise, promise, promise!" Shadow trips over his own words from talking fast, with hyper excitement. He really wanted to see Eve again.

It was good enough for Eve, given the real purpose at hand. She'd want to find a way to talk to the rebels, without alarming them. And, Eve would definitely prefer someone else to talk to, than the giant pest before her. "'Kay, I'm going to clean up. Don't follow or look for where I'm going. Good day, and sure to see you, Shadow..." She turns away and tiredly waves behind her, walking off.

Shadow waves his arms in the air sporadically, even though Eve couldn't see him doing so. "Yes, hope to see you soon~!" He called out, smiling widely, then lowering his sunglasses.

The rebel's lips started to quiver, and his smile grew as wide as it possibly could. He mutters to himself giddily in thought. "Mm~ Starlight, my Sunshine. She let me see her again, yes... This will be my lucky break. A way out!- ... Heh, getting too excited just thinking about it~."

Shadow looks up, not seeing white hair but looking at the direction she went. "I'll be seeing you... Starlight... Eve..."

___________________________________________________________

Eve swings her door open, greeting Sam at the same time. "I'm back, Sam."

Eve drops all her stuff on the kitchen counter, and places her flowers in a vase on the dining table. "Hi Sam. Everything go alright holding down the fort for me? You're the best. Let's make you dinner." She looks at an empty large dinner bowl she turned into Sameer's food dish. He already ate his late lunch when Eve stopped by. She didn't want her friend to be hungry.

Wanting to get through the last thing left of her day to do, Eve just goes straight to the kitchen and grabs food prepared for Sameer. Also grabbing cloth and detergent for her stains. As she sets food out for Sam, she hears a knock at her door.

Eve walks over to her door quickly. She peers out and then opens the door to none other than Grey to see her. He stood, coldly at Eve's door. He monotonously spoke. "Good evening. I just wanted to check on you. I got the rundown for work already, and wanted to run it by you to prepare."

Of course, this was more just Grey wanting to check on Eve. Purpose or not to see her, he was going to watch Eve, even on her day off. Though, it may have been a bit too late. Eve didn't even get to change out of her ruined clothes from today's endeavors.

Regardless, she opens the door wide for Grey to come inside. "Oh, sure. Come in, I was about to make some food."

"A little later than usual, is it? - Hm...." Grey eyes the vase full of flowers. Eve had never filled it so much before.

Grey turns to Eve remarking it. "Were you performing today? It seems you kept all the flowers this time."

Eve didn't look at Grey, but brushed Sam's fur, trying to act calm. "Oh- Actually, I had to cut that short." She sheepishly let out.

"Ah, I see." Grey eyes Eve then looks back away coolly.

"... Grey?" Eve wearily broke the silence. She wanted to ask something she knew he would get angry over.

Grey's eyes narrow at Eve, being serious. "What is it?" He got straight to the point, clear and brooding.

Eve knits her hands together tightly. "I saw a suspect outside. A rebel, from before that we couldn't identify."

Grey goes from calm and stern, to gawking with his eyes peering wiring at Eve. "What?! Why didn't you call me, or something?" Grey walks closer to Eve, he towers over her staring her down wildly.

Eve crosses her arms and leans a bit backwards so Grey wouldn't be so close, yelling in her ear. She tries to speak calmly to wind Grey down. "I didn't want any possible fighting or alarm, but he wouldn't leave me be. I found out they've been stalking me since our encounter with them in the alley..."

Grey pictures the masked face he saw in the alley with Eve that escaped. But, no idea why he's after Eve except that she had dealt with them on duty. "Hmph!... This is bad." He growls. If the rebel follows Eve everywhere, he could be planning a threat.

Eve looks away, not wanting to discuss, but feeling it was important to. "Well... His intentions seem harmless, but still not very good. They just found my music channel... It's not like that's a secret. The only bad thing he did was annoy me to no end..."

Just hearing more, Grey became more and more tense. "He's still a threat! He's a wanted criminal!"

Eve mumbles, getting short and annoyed with Grey. She didn't need to lecture, since she was trying not to interact with a criminal in the first place. "Yeah, I told him I wasn't going to cause a scene in broad daylight, especially off duty. I tried to get away, but he wouldn't leave me alone. I spoke nothing, but defended the agency. I made it clear that I want to know his side's story too...."

"Don't just decide this solely! You needed to tell me these things as soon as you got back!" Grey barked in Eve's face.

Eve got even closer, more fiery, and shouting. "I JUST got back! I haven't even gotten to change into less ruined clothes, for galaxy's sake!"

Grey looks down at Eve, as if he hadn't noticed her outfit, but definitely now sees the stains on her. "What is that? Is that... blood?" He points down to something red, eyes now wide worried.

Eve shook her head frantically, and then stares down at her shirt as a small piece of strawberry was still on her. "It's ice cream! That's a strawberry, ugh!! I'm getting changed. YOU, STAY HERE AND SHUT UP TILL I GET BACK!!" Eve throws the strawberry pulp at Grey, and turns her heels to her bedroom.

Grey was furious, but maybe not as much as Eve was. She apparently had a tough day, and her partner knew that freaking out was only making it worse. Grey waited patiently for Eve, reflecting on the last few moments. Still bitter, still angry, but reflecting.

Eve huffs as she strides out of her bedroom, in a dark blue buttoned shirt. Her sleeves were already folded, and she changed into black, small gloves, but her shirt was unbuttoned slightly so she could breathe. Her hair was no longer tied halfway down her back. It was able to fall forward, and to her sides.

Eve hops into a reading chair, sprawling out on the armrests. She finally felt better, now that she was home, and cleaner. Eve sighs deeply, rubbing her temples with one hand.

Grey walks beside the chair, and places his shadow over Eve. He had his arms crossed, and eyes scowling coldly at her. "Eve, I need you to tell me EXACTLY what happened, or else..."

Eve scoffs. "What? Or you'll look at my memories? I don't care about your pointless threat! See for yourself how my time was fruitlessly wasted, fearing the guy was going to do something for the rebels. He was just playing around..." She reached her hands out to Grey, having nothing to hide.

"What do you mean by that?" Grey takes her hand lightly, eyes glowing mythical as he reads her.

Eve is in a state of reliving her recent memories, but she seemed used to the sensation. She talks through what happened, then the memory would play as proof at the same time. "It's embarrassing to admit, but the guy was acting like he had a thing for me... He tried to make us go on a date. I refused to call it that. Nothing evil, but rather stupid... I told him I wanted to make peace with both sides. I was honest to tell him his company was not helping my mission, but he was really annoying me."

Grey could see Eve was being honest, again. As unexpected as her adventure went, he saw the shadow she was yelling at, him being too close to her, for both Grey's and Eve's comfort. Him calling her 'Starlight' on a dime after admitting to it all, and his unjustified reason for stalking Eve, really set Grey off.

Grey's blood started to boil, and he felt something, but he couldn't explain what. It must have been from Eve's discomfort, he thought. His partner being harassed made him angry, Grey could feel it. He could tell this rebel was going to be more trouble down the road. Maybe to the agency, but definitely to Eve specifically.

Eve was not phased after the flashes of memory, yet Grey seemed out of it. She tries to wave in front of his face and get his attention. She keeps waving her hand up sitting, which met him at eye-level. "Grey..? Grey!!"

Grey jumps, realizing he's spaced out. He looks down at Eve, sheepishly. "H- huh?"

Eve brushes her hair away from her eye and fixes it over her shoulder. She's staring at Grey, still annoyed. "I thought you were going to talk about work anyways. Let's talk about the suspect with the shadow power later, and get ready for work now."

Grey clears his throat, trying to get back to his serious tone. "Right... I have reports of the lists of black market trading of girls with special abilities from Mr. Moore. This would help clear out more of the bad roots we can find." He doesn't look at Eve directly, but she wasn't paying much attention to her oddly skittish partner.

Eve does however look at her partner questionably. "Oh good, are we going to try to infiltrate the black market, too?" She said a bit sarcastically.

Grey shook his head. "No no, not exactly, but a secret auction. Teams will be out, taking down a few across the city."

Eve looks over, raising her brows, and tilting her head wondering. "What about elsewhere?"

Grey coolly looks down and away. He speaks in a hush monotone. "We don't have anything but it's a good start. And, New York City has a large crime population. It takes out quite a bit, at least."

Eve pouts her lips and keeps her head tilted. "Hm... Shame, but alright. How's a team going through?"

Grey summarizes the current operation. "We'll be filling in as bidders in the audience. Halfway through, we'll make a full arrest of everyone, and take back the girls, and belongings to safety."

"Easier said than done?" She raises herself slightly in her seat.

The edge of Grey's lips raised slightly as he kept his cold eyes peering down at Eve. "Heh, just expect an uproar and crowd trying to leave. We'll have all the exits locked till we get vans in to take in all the suspects, quickly. We're there to make sure no one gets away, we'll put an end to that."

Eve drops her head, leaving her legs and arms to dangle over her chair. "Ne~ I have such a headache. I'm too tired for this."

"You've had enough for one day. I'll order us something to eat, if you haven't yet. Having a lazy day is good every one and a while... Chinese sounds good?" Grey mumbles aloud as he searches on his phone, and turns it to Eve at a restaurant close by that Eve might like.

Eve shifts in her seat, till she's in a ball upright. She hugs one arm around her knees, and extends out to pet Sameer. "Mhm..." She hums into space, lost in a tired trance. Sam even looks up worried about her. He didn't like seeing Eve blue.

Grey doesn't look at his phone, eyes are glued to his moping partner. She looked sad, and for the times he's seen her sad, it wasn't filled with worry. Somehow, Eve looked sick, paler then she already was, eyes heavy and tired. It seemed like his partner was dealing with more than just today. Grey murmurs, aloud enough for Eve to hear. "I have some medicine, if you need it."

Eve just moves her eyes to Grey, leaning down more to hug Sam. "It's fine. I always just tough it out. Just need water and maybe... more sugar."

Grey smirks and shakes his head at Eve, astounded. "Heh, lay off the sweets for a moment, or you'll ruin your appetite. It would give you more of a headache, too."

Eve jumps in her chair so she sits up right, bubbly and cheerful. "I already fed Sam, so I should be fine having some sweets for dinner! I'm built off sugar, hehe~!" She held her hands to her face and smirked innocently.

Grey didn't look thrilled at the idea as Eve was. More glaring disapprovingly, than her bright smile. "You have to eat- Oh, or are you not hungry from your forced-date with that guy?" He teased, but it was more mocking than as a joke.

Eve dramatically flails her arms and legs over her chair again. "Ugh~ Don't make my headache worse!... I could eat, of course. Since when have I not been hungry?" Eve giggles, taking herself out of the moment. Grey just looks at her, then chuckles as well. He turns back to his phone and scrolls through menus.

Grey props himself leaning on Eve's chair with his phone. "Take a look and see what sounds good." He passes his phone to Eve.

They both take a look at dishes and sides to order. Eve was practically drooling over everything on the menu. Both partners settle and place their order. Grey makes the call, and Eve gets a second wind and slowly walks over to her kitchen.

Grey turns back after hanging up his phone. "Alright, order is in." He looks back at his phone, going back to usual 'poker-face' cold stare. He turns to the movement going on the opposite side of where Eve once was sitting.

"I'll make refreshments. Want anything?" Eve eyed Grey, tiredly but it seemed a lot more cheerful again. It was as if she got a second wind. Eve goes to a tea cabinet, and reaching in another to get cups out.

Grey walks over, and sets a hand in front of Eve on a counter-space, so that she would turn her attention to him. "I think you should relax more."

Eve smiles up at him, but her voice sounded slightly worried. "I'll just make some tea! That helps a lot, then I can relax till the food's here." Eve walks around Grey, and sets water to boil with two cups ready.

Grey looks down at his phone at the time, uttering over his shoulder. "I'll just pick it up when it arrives."

As they waited, now with no work, or incident to discuss, a dead air fell on everyone. Even Sameer didn't interact in the awkward moment. It laid silent till the blaring sounds of the kettle filled the air. Eve, Grey, and even Sam stay silent again as they wait for Eve to brew cups.

Once tea was served and Grey goes to sitting in silence, drinking. Eve hovers around, slightly nervous. "Grey...?" Eve called out, and Grey just shifted his eyes up to his partner.

Eve stands in front of him, shifting around. She doesn't look at him, but asks. "Why do you put up with me so much? I mean, I'm sure you'd want some peace and quiet again, on your time off."

It would worry Eve a bit whenever Grey came over, since he was typically all business. She didn't mind his company. They still had times where they also chatted about more trivial things. But, Grey rarely stopped by without a purpose first. Grey turns fully to Eve now, face emotionless when speaking. "Because you're so reckless and ambitious, I feel like I need to watch over you. You clearly can't go outside without something possibly happening."

Grey could tell by the silence that followed, Eve couldn't deny it. He leans over closer, gesturing his hand to Eve. "But... You're also pleasant. You're kind, and think about others so fondly. Your mind is always elsewhere, thinking about things most people don't. You're not bad company either really...."

Grey looks down, mentally somewhere else. He didn't talk for a moment, till he mustered looking back at Eve. "If you go out again, bring me along, and we can go together. It'll be good to go out in case you're stalked again, for protection...."

Eve shrugs and chuckles a bit. "Sure. I mean, you don't want to listen to my music, right? Would you really want to hangout with me when I perform?"

Grey stays deadpan but raises a brow to Eve in question. "I never said that, did I? Might not be one for it, but I don't mind waiting. So, yes, we can go out..."

Grey goes to look back at his phone as a notification appears. "And, I don't mean it like a da- Foods here... I'll be back..." He suddenly stops from correcting himself.

Grey quickly got up, without looking at Eve, or saying another word. Grey went straight out the door and stopped outside. He huffs once he's in the hallway, combing a hand through his hair mentally panicking to himself. He looked at his phone, seeing a notification that the food was almost there, but he didn't want to go back in.

Grey held his mouth tightly, as if something were to spill out. He could hear and feel his heartbeat in his ears. His hand falls to his pounding heart. Once it felt calmer, Grey finally muttered to himself, frustrated. "What the-... What was I even going to imply?!"

Grey grabs his hair and hunches over wide-eyed, confused. He was losing his cool over the sense of regret, and fear of something Grey couldn't explain. His heart, suddenly aching in pain. He had to stop whatever thoughts were randomly appearing. But, something kept appearing in particular, something Grey's mind wouldn't let go of. A 'date'. That unfinished word from before felt like it was being replayed over and over in his mind. It was like a hollow echo haunting him.

Grey goes down to the lobby area, and waits for the food. He comes back, opening Eve's door, and trying not to act suspicious. He had time to cool down a bit waiting for the food. Grey eyes Eve, still sitting with Sameer as he came in.

Both agents wash and eat. Eve takes a bite, and her eyes light up as she holds a hand to her cheek, happily. "Mm~! Grey, this is delicious! Thanks for making my day better!"

Grey holds his head on a propped hand, relaxing his shoulders, and leaning to gaze at his partner so joyous over simple takeout. "Heh, you're such a handful. At least, this way I can keep an eye on you."

And yet, it didn't sound like Grey minded keeping an eye on Eve. He liked talking to her, sometimes. Other times, Eve was hard to handle, but also insightful. Grey even opened up a bit to Eve while working together. And, Eve did just the same.

Grey knows deep down he couldn't ask for more. They already have enough, sometimes checking on Eve, and giving him food and company. It was enough for Grey, but now, maybe too much. But, the idea of not seeing Eve was also difficult, for countless reasons. He conflicted with new feelings, and knowing who her's belonged to.

Eve was foreign to the new lifestyle. Grey was out of touch with his team personally. Both seemed pretty distant people in their own ways, but not to each other. For them, it seemed natural somehow.

______________________________________________________________

Since the interaction with the rebel, the next work-night rolled around. The mission was a large-scale takedown of sellers and participants of illegal biddings. Also to rescue any people and evidence in their possession. Near the outskirts was a large, older theater that the bidding was apparently at.

The building was dark and worn down. Members were able to go in with a special letter, or knew a name that does. As large shag curtains move out of their way, Eve and Grey walk into a dark theater full of people in the audience. Not many were looking at them coming in. Bidders, were more focused on seeing the latest items.

Grey whispers, as he turns his head slightly to Eve beside him. "Alright. Follow my lead and don't do anything, please..."

They wore hoods, but most were wearing some sort of cover over them. So many dark figures shuffled in seats, filling the whole theater.

'Lots of people...'

Eve tapped Grey long enough for him to read.

Grey doesn't look at Eve but hums and nods. "Mhm, we got it covered, under half will still be just disguised agents as we come in..."

The lights turn on around the stage, illuminating it amongst the darkness. A man was standing in the center. As the auction started, he proceeded to announce over the crowd. "Welcome one and all, we will start off this auction with an interesting piece. Cursed swords, sworn to have dark magic from the many lives and souls they've taken..."

People in the crowd start bidding, even though it is said to curse the wielder and victims at one point. It wasn't what they were originally looking for, but it didn't seem good getting into the wrong hands either.

'What's this? There's no people...'

Grey hushed as he faced forwards. "That comes later. They must be saving that for last..."

The announcer's voice over their microphone drowns out others from hearing Grey muttering quietly. "And, on the docket next, a beautiful woman. Well kept and fit...." They kept adding onto details about the woman. Nothing struck as the girls Eve and Grey were looking for.

'Are they not ability users?'

It's not like Eve is able to check, without making a scene, that is. She didn't know if Grey's been to any secret auctions before, or dealt with anything like this.

Grey whispers aloud for Eve to hear. "We'll wait to see. If not, they'll need to be taken in to the police then. Now stop 'talking' to me..." He hissed shortly.

The announcer waves out another, a giant. "Next is interesting. A man with abnormal strength. He's locked so even his fingers won't move..."

"Jeez...." Grey gawked disgusted by the brutal restraints the man had.

People for some reason were bidding for the strong giant. As the biddings eventually stopped, another was rolled out in a sturdy cage. The whole outside had metal bars and thick, metal mesh. There was a woman, sitting with her head down hidden by her arms and knees.

The announcer cleared his throat and boomed louder and excitedly, before going to the next. "Another abnormal one. Here, we have a young woman with the ability to grow larger or smaller in size..."

'When do we get a que?'

Given, Eve never stopped tapping Grey and mentally asking him things. It was getting a bit of Grey's nerves that, even in thought, Eve couldn't keep her mouth shut. "Wait till we get a sign. They have to take the first gent to the exit before we do. Doors are about to be locked...." Grey answered.

Few people go on and off stage, till the lights go out. Everyone shuffles and panics. Even Eve looks around confused in the nearly pitch black room.

Grey quickly turns fully to his partner, and gets up from his seat. "That's the que. Want to illuminate around us?" Even if he can barely see Eve, they're facing each other now.

Eve does so and jumps high above the crowd in a glowing, weightless flourish. She sees others are also causing a big commotion. Lighting, fire, water, random items flying around the room had caused people to run to the closed exits.

Grey runs off to one direction with his retractable bo staff, and shouts over to Eve. "Maestro! Help get a group contained by the exit doors."

"Right!" After hearing Grey's instructions, Eve then immediately jumped up on one of the seats, and leapt over to the opening walkway up to the doors and large curtain entry.

Eve starts to create strands of light, weaving them in small knots till they become bright, golden nets. She jumps up and tosses one onto a group of people crowding the door. As they tried swarming agents, trying to break down the door. Some auctioneers suddenly fell tangled under Eve's nets.

Eve was able to capture everyone trying to get out from the front. She made more rope from thin air. Eve ran into the whole crowd, and threw nets till she was in front of agents suddenly. She kept weaving and throwing, now passing and explaining quickly. "I have nets!" She explained quickly, hoping people would help contain people with them.

They were bright, and very warm, but people were able to handle the crowds with them. They just had to make sure they didn't get tangled themselves by its magical ability. "Here!" Eve shouts over all the buzz and panic and best she could.

Eve sees a fast blur from the corner of her eye. She turns to see a man trying to escape through the dark corners, away from Eve's bright nets.

Eve spins around and runs after them. She leaps as she becomes illuminated, with a glimmering trail falling at her feet. She even lands on the escapee even as they try to run. In a thud into the ground, Eve kneels on the man, and holds one arm behind his back tightly. "You're not going anywhere! Don't you DARE try to fight back, or else...." She hisses intimidatingly.

The man couldn't move out of her grasp or kick her off. He quickly stops fighting Eve, laying defeated as Eve creates a rope to tie him with. "I- I give, I give...." The man drops his head to the ground, and Eve gets up once his hands are tied behind him. Two agents rush over to pick him up.

As so much was happening, Eve moved through agents and suspects as she wandered over to the back of the stage. Agents were picking locks off all the victims. Eve looks over and sees the muscular giant from before, with two people trying to take his locks off. It seemed there was little progress made in little time. So, Eve comes up with an idea to help.

Eve opens the door and kneels to the concrete. She was going to use magic, but normal people were around too. Eve didn't think it mattered since they've probably seen a lot already. So, Eve gets to work, placing her hands down. Everything glows around her as she whispers. "Please, Gaea, tell me you're here... Able me stronger..."

Once rock, now a mixture of materials. While, all that could be used was like a giant compressed slab of sand. Many small connections reached her, even when weak. It was barely heard, Eve couldn't hear what was said, but a response back.

Suddenly, Eve's arms slightly quiver, as well as the ground below her hands. Cracks started to form, and two slabs of concrete mistakenly formed around Eve's hands, like stone gloves. Although she couldn't move her hands, they were perpetually close fists that could still work for it purpose.

Eve turns and steps back into the backstage. People make way naturally, and Eve is able to reach the trapped man. Eve held the giant man's hands out, trying to use her bulky stone hand to hold one lock. Then, she smashed it and the lock broke. Eve did this to all the many locks this man had, and some chains tying him to cuffs. Then, she tries to carefully smash a lock that held a metal mask over his mouth. Besides being loud, it falls to the ground in a heavy thud with ease.

Eve hops in front of the giant. She stares at the wild, bloodshot eyes peering into her gentle, sympathetic ones. Eve breaks the silence, after breaking all the man's chains and locks. "You're free. We're here to help you guys."

The man stares at her silently, then strode widely to a group of people he stood much taller behind the agents, holding out his arms to help contain people. It appears he decided to help now that he was free. Now, the agents backstage were able to get everyone else out of their restraints, much quicker now that the giant male's locks were taken care of.

"Show off..." Said a voice behind Eve. She turns as Randle, Agent Bolt, gawks in passing. Eve rolls her eyes and tries to ignore him.

Eve looks for Grey, and spots him across the way. It was a man next to Grey that spoke over the crowd quickly. "Alright, everyone. Out to the vans."

Then everyone dispersed out through the exits. Grey quickly followed the sea of people out. Eve follows Grey, trying to go with people in his direction. She looked out at the scene outside, as more agents stood, and barricades kept the theater temporarily locked down.

Specialized armored trucks had appeared some time as the light went out. Now, people from the auction were being placed under arrest, to be transported to the S.O.U. Everyone was able to be placed in the armored trucks and were sent off the scene as quickly as they came.

A voice rings in Eve's ear, and everyone else's, telekinetically. "Clear. Great job everyone." Someone then cheers over the large crowd. A few people join in celebrating, and people gather around.

"Where's Agent Maestro? Where'd she run off to?" One asks, as Eve was trying to run over to her partner again. People turned as well and started to murmur to others about what they saw or hear Maestro do during the capture.

Eve quickly stops from overhearing, curious, with a smile towards her cohorts. "All done here, right? Just need to get these guys in cells?" Eve points her thumb over to the armored vehicles. As she's preoccupied, Grey turns his head to her as he places a suspect into the back of one of the vehicles.

A familiar face appears from the crowd, and Blare runs up to Eve, almost into her. "Agent Maestro! That was AMAZING!! You absolutely kicked-butt rounding up people!" She cheered, jumping into Eve with arms wide open.

Eve chuckles briefly. She surprisingly relaxes more, now that it was over, successfully it seemed. "Thanks Blare, heh. I was just improvising a bit."

Agent Valkery jumps in and greets them. "Hey, you are the most skilled ability user I've seen. I've been here for a while, but that was the first time I've seen your abilities. It was some impressive stuff."

Grey walks over, and Blare automatically lets go of Eve. Eve was thankful to at least be able to have her personal space back. Grey just whips his head away from the mischievous pair, Blare and Valkery. He coolly speaks to his partner. "Hmph. Don't mind them, but indeed good work today."

Blare puts her hands on her hips and snaps feistily at Grey. "Can't others talk to your partner, Grey?!" She then waved her arms around as Grey had killed the mood.

Eve looks between the other agents amused. They could never stop butting heads, even after completing a mission together. "Hehe, you guys are a riot, but I think we should head back. Great work everyone!" Blare and Valkery say goodbye, then walk away to leave in their car.

Things seemed a lot more successful this mission. Eve didn't burn anything down, and she was seen doing an impressive job with multiple abilities. She helped out capturing, and rescuing in no time. Vans appeared in and out quickly thanks to Eve's nets. This time, Eve had kept control over the situation, and her temper. At least one mission with Eve actually went according to plan.

After going to the sanctuary the next day rolled around quickly. Eve comes into work with a pleasant ray to her. She greets everyone on her floor with a smile, and makes her way to see Grey already working. Eve pulls out her seat. Grey turns at the movement.

Eve gives a big smile to Grey as she seats herself beside him. "Good morning, Grey~!" She cheered as she looked at him.

Grey seemed almost unaffected by it. He casually looks away, so he can hand her the morning brief of what was on the agenda. "Ah, morning Maestro. You seem cheery from the sanctuary, still. That's good... Got a mission to prepare for tonight. We just got word."

Eve looks at the list of what they had written for any leads or new cases. "Alrighty! What's the mission?"

Grey turns in his seat. He leans to one side facing Eve and looks down at the paper, pointing out to Eve parts. "Remember the one hacker from the previous base with the 'bug' problem? We also found where this information was going. Luckily now, all we have to do is catch this last rat. We'll have to interrogate this one further to see how they knew about the facility."

Grey pulls up from his screen a file with the name and information to show Eve. He turns his monitor a bit so Eve could see better. "Suspect is Victor Moore, you could certainly call him a small 'crime boss'. Moore was in a family business till he was removed for reasons unknown. He's got money and now influencing a gang that deals with a lot of bad stuff. Drugs, weapons, anything illegal, and in high demand. This information could be dangerous in the hands of a guy like him."

Eve's cheerful expression became wide-eyed worry. "Not good at all... What are we going to do to stop him?"

Grey knew when he told her, she'd ask that basically. "Good question, indeed. We can go about this in a few ways. We could try to infiltrate a bar he runs. He was recently spotted there, and that's how we found him. Think you can talk to him?"

Eve tilts her head curiously. "Okay... do you really trust me to talk-it-out with a bad guy? Is he normal? I can't fight him with powers, right?"

Grey oddly looks away, also not really favoring the idea. But, they had to. Grey needed Eve's help for something he's not the best with, surprisingly in their field. "Well... Ahem, it's not to put you on the spot, but you're at least going to be a lot more approachable than me for this. Maybe you could undercover. Act like you're a singer that wants to perform at his bar, then get him alone for a second to arrest him. Just dress in a disguise, and don't give them your name. I'll be able to reach you, if you get into some trouble."

It sounded like Grey couldn't be beside Eve to help, as he's usually been. Now, he's distanced, and Eve will have to handle leading the investigation. She'll have to use her improv skills, and charm, to survive on her own.

Eve slumps into her seat and sighs tiredly. "Sigh... Why do I have to go to a bar?" She pouts, since she definitely wouldn't want to be alone either. Eve didn't go to bar's or drink. She also was a performer for a younger audience, her personality just didn't fit the bar seen. Bars were only fun for her if there was a band, or if she'd perform.

Grey turns more deadpanned. He walks through a small plan, so his partner gets more of that jist. "Just get in, spot the target, get or follow him to where there's less people. Don't act like yourself. You naturally act like a disney prince. Where black instead of white and light colors. Don't act so kind and righteous, you don't want to become an easy target. You'll see characters at the bar from formal, to even grimy. So, just don't look too inconspicuous with that...."

Eve surprisingly sounded excited and focused. She raises her arms, and balls her fists together determined. "Okay! I'll dress dark, and pretend I've got problems I can't handle, and I want to sing about it! Yay~!" Eve then cheered as she flew her arms up excitedly.

Grey feels like he's regretting this idea already. "Definitely hope you can act the part too, quietly...."

Eve chuckles at her partner's remorse. "I'll try my best!"

Grey will just have to take Eve's word for it. This was Eve's expertise. "Good. We'll have earpieces, so we can partially communicate. I can help you, if you hesitate at all."

This was pressure on Eve to perform and act, but that's her skill set. She won't use her usual gimmicks. Eve's going to channel something she's not shown in front an audience. Eve was going to go dark.

__________________________________

(Warning; Strong language)

The two finish the rest of their work, and prepare for Eve's undercover mission that night. A new an anxious task ahead, and crooked people to follow, but Eve had to disguise herself amongst them to find out what they were planning. They had plenty of time to strategize first, and know when, where, and who to look for.

Grey is in Eve's apartment, hanging out with Sameer in front of Eve's bedroom door. Though Eve and Grey weren't off the clock yet, the two outside had been waiting patiently for Eve. She was just needing a moment to change for the mission.

Eve opens the door after some time. "'Kay, Grey. Do I look ready?" She hushed her voice in a low and calming tone.

Both Grey and Sameer look widely at Eve's transformation. Her hair was slicked down with gel, and bangs slightly parted to one side. She leans on the doorframe with her elbow that barely holds on a large leather jacket. Her other hand out on the door.

Eve threw on whatever black articles, and celestial jewelry she had from different costumes. Although very covered, under her jacket she rolled her shirt sleeves, and hints of white ink showed on Eve's pale skin. A rare detail to see, which was something interesting about her that fit the look. Grey lands his gaze back at Eve's face. Her eyes were done with a smokey, wet look, she wore a glossy sinister smile, along with heavy raised eyelids peering at Grey from under her lashes.

Since Grey laid silent, Eve speaks up again, almost sounding bored, or annoyed. "Got something to say, or are we just standing around?" She chuckled at her own joke, using the fake persona.

Eve strides out and idles in front of Grey. She gives him a thumbs up, and presses a hand to her ear. "Earpiece is already in, let's go." Eve turns to the door, and Grey snaps out of his silent glaring, and follows behind.

As Eve goes to head out, she spins around, waving and smiling cheerfully. "Bye Sam~! I'll be back later! I'll miss you!!"

As Eve turns back around, Grey eyes her sternly. His cold eyes peer light into Eve's after she locks up her door. Even with the makeup and a different outfit on, Grey just sees Eve through it all. "Okay, start acting now. You're too loud for looking like that right now. All I see is your goofy self still."

Eve tilts her head innocently, still smiling sweetly. Even with dark makeup on she was radiant as she giggled out the door. Grey leads her down to where a car was parked outside the apartments. They head to the bar. They talk about the plan, and if anything were to happen. After looking and going over all the exits, Eve heads in, while Grey hangs outside in case the suspect leaves.

The bar was dimly lit, pool tables being played filled the bar with clatter and ambiance. An empty stage was on the opposite side of the entrance. And for decor, despite being a bar, it was decorated like a casino room just with shady deals in the corner booths, rather than people on slot machines. Eve walks in, the checkered tile making her steps much louder in boots. She goes straight to the bar, and takes a seat.

"Hmm...." Eve scans the small drink list. It held the specials she's never heard of. She doesn't know any drink names besides obvious ones. She tries not to, but couldn't help but be a little nervous, especially out in the open alone.

Eve sits at a bar owned by the suspect. It was a smaller crowd occupying the bar, since it was early in the weekday. It wasn't because of her outfit, but her natural looks caught a few eyes coming in. She would burn her glaring eyes at anyone that looks at her pass, as part of the act.

Eve waves at the bartender. She speaks shortly, and tries to have less character in her voice. "Hey, I would like to order but I'm bored of some drinks. Do you have anything that won't hurt my voice? I'm a singer, I don't want to be with a trashed voice in the morning...." She lies, at least about the drinking ordeal.

The bartender nods, then the corner of his lips perk upwards. "I could also give you something not so strong maybe. We have a few cocktails that don't sting goin' down."

Eve bangs on the counter with her hand, acting excited at the idea. "Perfect, then I can drink a lot of them, right? Heh heh, just kidding. Surprise me!" Her look and act, fitting enough as a punk rocker.

The bartender takes a moment to prepare a drink. They soon hand Eve a small glass of a colorful liquid. She idles it, while she brings out a burner phone, pretending to act distracted.

The bartender doesn't leave, but just leans on the counter facing Eve. He eyes her, looking oddly at her. "So, a singer, ya' say? Would you sing somethin' then?"

Eve gives a bored scoff, and chuckles. "Heh, like what? Anything? I'm from overseas, so my music originally wasn't in English. But... Give me a guitar, or something to play, and I got you."

The bartender looks over Eve's shoulder and shouts directed over to a booth in the corner. "Hey V! Can I spare an instrument from the stage? This girl's gonna play somethin'."

Eve slowly turns her head to one of the corner booths. She spots a man, also a woman by the man's side. His face looked like the suspect she was looking for. It was the one who the hacker tried to give secret information from government facilities to. He glares at Eve coldly, but then chuckles.

Eve stares at the suspect from the counter of her eye. The suspect, Victor Moore, stares coldly at Eve. Then, he waves a hand and acts nonchalantly. "Hm, why not, but it better be good then."

Eve raises her glass to the suspect, trying to act like she doesn't know who he is. "You'll have to be the judge. Don't worry, I can sing, my genius however, is a little out there..."

Eve brought the drink to her lips after toasting to 'Mr. V' in the corner, as thanks for his permission. She didn't drink it, but tasted it and pretended to drink. It still left a terrible taste in her mouth.

Eve is handed an acoustic guitar moments later and was ready to rock, acoustically, that is. "Thanks." She at least tries to keep a bit of politeness for allowing her request. Her plan had just worked out perfectly, finding and calming getting the suspect's attention.

Eve starts to play something, a few chords and then she used her voice as a harmony till she found some lyrics to sing towards the end.

Victor had gotten up shortly after Eve stopped with her playing and singing. He eyes Eve wildly, then tries to act unamused as he spoke. "Good enough. Got to say, you're mighty beautiful in appearance as well..."

Eve's ear buzzed instantly after the suspect's statement, and Grey's voice spoke into her earpiece.

'Please don't you dare fight him, Maestro. Change the subject.'

Eve mentally nodded to herself as she eyes around the room nervously. Her eyes fall to the woman in the corner, and Eve points her thumb towards her. "... I'm more interested in the innocent thing over there, bud." It was impromptu, but hopefully a good end to that conversation.

The man looks behind him, and looks back, oddly smiling at Eve. "Her? Heh, you got a fine eye, we can certainly share, huehehe. Thing is... she's one of my 'special' girls, I can't just leave my belongings with others. She's got a pretty price for that head of hers... Unless you're still interested...." He raises a curious brow.

Eve raises a brow, curious but she didn't think she wanted to know what she meant. However, something didn't feel right when looking at the young woman. She didn't not look happy to be there. She even looked scared as she hid in the booth only peering over occasionally with a worried look.

Eve decides, despite her worry, someone else there seemed more scared and out of place than Eve. She'll play along for now till she finds out who that woman is. "Well, can the girl come up here? She's got legs, doesn't she?"

The suspect quickly snapped his fingers and waved the woman over in a quick notion. The woman hesitantly gets out of the booth and stands by the man. Grey speaks again. This time, Eve spots small movements from a window, likely Grey hiding.

'What's going on? I'll try to find out who that woman is....'

With a bit of security even outside, Grey was most likely behind something out of sight. He had his work laptop if they needed information to help Eve. But, he still tried to be close, as much as he could on the sidelines. Grey was on alert for Eve in case of an emergency, and if he needed to pull her out.

Eve places a finger under her chin and narrowed her eyes, staring at the woman. "Hm... Yeah, her looks could drive anyone crazy, but I don't get what's so special about her." She dropped her hand and shrugged. She looked away unamused with her head in the air.

Moore nods and smirks, seemingly understanding. But, he immediately goes emotionless and serious. "Heh... I think it's best if you don't ask anything else. She's here, you can look, but not touch." His brows furrowed closely together, scowling at Eve. He'd be best to stop talking, or rid her from the bar already.

Eve teased in a sinister, yet teasing tone. "Dawww, I'd buy her a drink first if I was going that far~. It's a girl, you can spot those anywhere outside." Eve's voice went deadpan at the last part.

Moore goes red with anger as he snaps at Eve. "SHE'S NOT JUST A GIRL- She's got a lot more to her for her price! Want to know more, you pay a fee. Interested still?" He presses on, waiting for Eve to back down as she should, or see if she'll regret trying to push his hand.

Eve just waves her arms up and shrugs. "Hmph, well I got money from being a singer, traveling overseas, and all. Cash for a girl, I'll buy into it if it's that special." She sounded disgusting to herself, which worked with her persona. Eve didn't want to make a deal, but she'd figure some way to get either Victor, or the girl alone.

'Maestro! You don't have to get involved in a private matter. I'll figure out who she is! We'll handle that! You need to not provoke, or make any deals with them!"

All while Agent Grey spoke, Eve took her time rummaging in her bag. She sighs aloud. "Mmm... sigh. I only have some cash right now, but it's yours, if I can see something worth my while..."

Moore just quickly glances at how much she had, then tosses it back to Eve, and scoffs. "This... is barely enough to even bribe with..."

Eve complains in an outrage, trying to purposely provoke him. "Well that's all I got on me. You think I'd carry all my cash on me?! How'd I go home if I don't have money for a taxi? Or pay for my drink?!"

Moore shook his head disapprovingly. It felt like a waste of his time discussing private information. Especially, if it's just because someone likes one of his girls, and not because of whatever they could do that was special. "Whatever... it's not enough. I'm done here..."

Eve tires to keep Moore attention. She couldn't give up now on know more about whatever this deal was involving the woman. "W- wait! What's a girl gotta do to get your lips to run? You've already intrigued me. Why back out now, after telling me all about it?"

'Stop this, Maestro.'

Grey's voice cut through like a doubtful inner-voice. Eve shouldn't be angering the suspect, or anything else she's doing.

Moore annoyingly waves off Eve and turns his attention away. He gave his last word before going back to the booth with the girl under his arm. "You're just a girl. This is nothing for you to meddle in. Think you can weasel into my business, because you're wanting something out of it?"

Eve flat out did. More than that suspect imagined. Trying to think of what she could give, besides the amount of money, Eve's eyes lit up with an idea. "Oh! How about a trade of sorts. I'll sing and work at your bar for free, for the girl. How about it?

You know what they say, curiosity killed the cat. And, Moore might not let Eve go, if he showed her. Seeing that this girl won't stop bugging him, the suspect finally gives in to Eve's demand. He just lets his fiery eyes ignite a sinister smirk on his face again. "Hm... Fine. I need more than just your word, but I'll give you a sneak peek, as interest..."

Moore gets close to the woman. He places a hand firmly on her shoulder, and leaning over the other shoulder speaking. "Ever hear about people with rare abilities?"

Eve's eyes light up, shocked. Of course, she would know about abilities, out of anyone there. But, the suspect also knew perhaps. She tried to play along to see where he was going. "Ah- abilities? I'd have to see it to believe it...." She lied.

Moore still felt annoyed, though he figured Eve to have not heard what powers, let alone have them. "Okay, fine. See here, then... You know what to do." He growls the last part in the woman's ear, she fidgets and shakes in fear.

'This is not good... If he's selling that girl, he's selling abilities....'

It seemed something much more sinister was happening. Moore has his hands on a lot of rare stuff, and making illegal businesses with a lot of secret items, information, and people too. Making his business far more dangerous than normal gangs.

The woman holds out her shaking hands slowly and Victor grabs them both tightly with one hand. He takes out a knife, and Eve jolts. He proceeds to cut the wrists of the scared woman. When Eve was expecting her blood to come out, it was a blue, shiny liquid oozing out. As the woman holds in her tears and a yelp, she brings her hands to her and cradles them as something feathery falls off of her. She then unraveled her hands and blue, crystal-like flowers and petals bloomed.

The suspect puts the knife away, and chuckles, looking over for Eve's reaction. "Isn't she beautiful?" Victor said.

Eve mutters quietly in shock. "Magic... crystal flowers?" Seeing what was exactly going on now, Eve's eyes twitched as she arose and waltzed up to them. She leans over to gaze at the woman closely, and with traces of sadness in Eve's eyes.

"Hmm... yes, very." Eve says plainly and unamused. She wasn't looking at the flowers, but at the girl. Eve's cover starts to break the more she gets angrier, but she tries not to show.

Eve had a new plan come to mind. One that was not her original mission, but a mission to help this woman. "Alright then... How much?"

'What?! MAESTRO, REFRAIN!! Don't accept ANY deals from that criminal!'

Grey tried to rebuttal, but Eve ignored him.

Moore smiles wickedly. "Heh, hundred thousand." He knew the price was way more than what Eve would have. It would be almost impossible for her to pay.

Eve's eyes went wide for a moment, hearing the price. Eve couldn't go through with it, only figure out another way to free the girl. "Psh, so expensive for a girl who's got a choice of her own too."

Eve scoffs, she pushes the man's shoulder and takes the woman's arm to bring her closer. "Can't she choose too?"

The suspect flings Eve's hand off the woman's, and pushes her away. He gets in her face, while he yells. "Hey! She can't, so get the hell away from her!"

Eve bravely goes back to the lady, this time holding her tightly so they wouldn't be parted so easily. She lifts the woman's chin to focus on Eve solely, and smirks, as if satisfied. "Hey, princess. Are you scared? Do you want me to help you out?" Eve paid no mind to the suspect, or anything, besides the woman.

The girl takes a large gasp and whispers, "P- please....", as softly as her trembling voice could allow.

'Maestro? Can you hear me?'

Eve did hear him, but she wasn't going to let him stop her. Moore tries to free Eve's grip from the woman to no avail. Eve chuckles to herself, then looks and smirks at the suspect. "Heh... It's settled. This woman... is coming with me." Eve said simply and plan, for such a tall order.

Moore had enough of Eve's nosy questions and ridiculous ideas. "Like hell, you're gonna take her. You're getting on my last, fucking, nerve." He pulls out a gun and points it at Eve's forehead. She looks at him with the same plain and cold expression.

Even when staring down a barrel pointed to her head, Eve was calm. Rather annoyed, but calm given her life being threatened. "I'll be taking her with me no matter what..."

Eve looks down, and then throws a stool at the suspect. She also throws one over the bar at the bartender. While they try to evade it, Eve grabs the woman a bit forcefully, so that she's embracing the woman tightly. Then, suddenly disappearing into a flash of light that darted across the room. She tucked the woman hostage under a table for protection, then darted back.

Moore regains, and looks around for Eve. She just then ran along the edge of the bar, acting as a diversion for the innocent girl. The suspect aims his gun, but then Eve dives behind the bar. The bartender rushes over to her huddled, but gets immediately kicked over to the other side of the counter.

The suspect yells at top volume. "What the-?! Everyone! Over here, and kill this stupid bitch!"

As if she hadn't already drawn attention to herself, now security and thugs are rushing over to them. She couldn't use too much magic, or her abilities. At least normal patrons were fleeing, with a few left a part of Moore's gang. Still, she could only try to fight with whatever she had up her sleeve.

In that case, Eve reached for her utility belt and grabbed a few fire capsules. A group of thugs ran behind the bar and saw Eve hiding. Eve ran out from behind the counter and threw fire capsules onto the ground. The flames roared up, and the suspect, along with a few others rushing Eve, then retreated away from the vibrant fires.

The suspect aims again through the flames, but Eve lunges out, fluidly taking out a bo staff and disarms him quickly. The fires move around Eve, even though they had no effect under her control regardless. She didn't want to ruin the act yet.

Commotion and uproar are as loud as the roaring flames. Eve swiftly spins and dodges at ongoing attacks, along with a swirling fire around her like a barrier. Fire twirled around her staff, and Eve combated the onslaught of people.

Eve got a blow to the face that left her dazed for a moment. She couldn't regain her stance. The fires disparate as Eve suddenly stops her control. After a few missed dodges, Eve kept getting hit and knew she needed to take control quickly.

One goon unfolded a pocket knife and swiped repeatedly at Eve. Eve threw a capsule right between her feet, and she was able to draw the others away again. With Eve outnumbered, dozens to one, and with little magic she was using. Eve tried her best to hold her ground. At least everyone was so focused on her, the hostage was slowly fleeing, whenever the coast was clear. At least Eve was saving the girl.

Moore yells, with something oddly in his enraged eyes. "ENOUGH!!"

Moore didn't have his gun out, but he ran and tried to make a break for Eve. She bats a fist away from the suspect, when suddenly his hands turned black, and the sleeve she was holding practically melted away in her hand.

Eve leaps away, shocked. Looking at the suspect, his arms were uncovered, turning black, with dark plumes of dark smoke coming from his eyes. They stand apart, till Victor decides to make another try at attacking Eve. She can just tell, she didn't want to touch his arms. Or, her gloves and appendages would burn right off. She makes sure to attack lower, so she won't get badly injured.

Eve also couldn't hold out without using her powers now. In a flash of light, any swipe or punch Victor threw, Eve dodged. She swipes down low at the suspect's feet, and he falls. Eve was about to knock him unconscious, till footsteps sounded too close behind. She turns as more of Moore's thugs come running in to help their boss.

Eve quickly jumps back and holds out her hands. She suddenly glows, and her hands make a ring, and blast a grouped-up pack following. They all fell to the ground, but we're still conscious. Eve fans her hands away from each other, sending light-beams around the bar.

Victor Moore exhaled a tired and fed-up gasp. He sits, then stagers up. Eve suddenly flashed by him like a shooting star. Moore processed what was going on, then baffled. "What... THE HELL?!"

Eve looks back and scoffs at the suspect. "Ha! You have a power too? I got unlimited... You won't stand a chance."

Moore grit his teeth, venomously spouting. "One touch and your whole arm will disintegrate! Fucking try me bitch!" He tries to run after Eve, as she's flying around the room.

'MAESTRO!!'

Grey finally interrupts, seeing that Eve's getting way over her head challenging the whole bar and bar owner. He was about to run in, or leap through the window. something, anything to get Eve out. Eve wasn't responding to Grey, he couldn't be much help with her ignoring him.

The suspect rushes at her with his toxic arms. Eve suddenly halts and confidently stands her ground, challenging him. "Oh, try to touch me. Fat-chance you can get near me." She then throws out her stone figures, and they all form a wall in front of her, along with a bit of smoke.

Moore continues to run in, grabbing at a tall stone figure, and watching it stay motionless. Its reactionless state initially shocked him. He kept his hands gripping the statue's shoulders as it slowly started to decompose thin layers of the stone's surface. Till, the stone statue grabbed the suspect suddenly, and held him up by his shirt collar.

The suspect became scared, grabbing the stone figure's wrists with his hands so that they would let go. But, it didn't easily till the wrists Moore was making contact with started to crack. Then, the statue threw Moore as far as it could across the bar.

The group of statues disburses, charging and attacking thugs. Eve jumps onto a table still standing upright, and calls out the suspect, as he's achingly standing back up. "Hey!! So you like flowers? Why don't I show you more!!"

Eve takes a leap and topples onto one guy and runs off. She slides on the floor, wiping a petal that was in a small pile on the ground from the woman. Eve halts, and places it on the ground again. She suddenly feels a large surge of power and places both hands on the floor. The ground beneath her shook slightly and a layer of blue crystals sheeted the ground and trailed into a curved tree-like figure sprouting from the ground up. It suddenly continues to cover the floor in a bigger circle around the base of the tree, trapping feet and anything on the floor around it.

Eve screams angrily, and it's as if her voice was cracking and shattering the tree, shards of crystals were sent as projectiles toward enemies. Eve roars in outrage. "How DARE you trade this girl. She's not an object! I'm taking you all in. You'll be arrested for buying information from hackers, and selling girls with powers!"

The gang started to lessen, given most were running away. A few people ran up to Moore. It seemed to Eve that they were trying to get the suspect to leave.

Eve ran after them, screaming as she tried to catch up. "You're not going ANYWHERE!! Get back here!"

Eve throws more fire capsules onto the ground, then disburses the flames far to form a large circle around the group. Everyone inside the circle, including the suspect, was trapped. No one could escape the colorful hellfire, moving statues now surrounding them, or Eve running in the center of the ring, who was controlling it all. She was throwing all her tricks out to fight. She keeps her statues close so that their brute strength could take on the crowd if she was getting swarmed in a tight ring.

With all the enemies still remaining, people started attacking, multiple at a time. Eve and her statues try to fight them off. Unfortunately, Eve got hit a few more times, with everyone too close to the counter. She swipes at one, but another punches Eve right in the face, again. She took a step back and had a statue behind her protect her as she was falling back a bit. She spits out an iron taste from her mouth coming from a now open cut on her lip.

Eve crushes a capsule in her hand so that flames swirled around her, so she was untouchable. Eve taunts them by spinning around to dodge, and weaving through enemies while setting them aflame. Eve yells, with the bitter fiery in her veins. "... You make me sick. Criminals like you should be locked up!" Surprisingly, it seemed just a lone, ability-user single-handedly overthrew the whole gang slowly. The gang now fought a downhill battle.

The flames grew, a bit too much. Fire started on the ground, then traveled to curtains, chairs, and the whole structure, till it was burning up. Everyone was or had run away. Many shouted and panicked. One voice here from a thug yelled. "RUN!! Bust the windows before this place burns up!"

The smoke and flames had caused everyone to escape to safety. Eve couldn't chase them all, but she could at least try to arrest the main suspect. Eve's eyes glowed and her heartbeat slowly stopped. Suddenly, she wasn't breathing, yet she was still functioning as if normal. As if breathing was no longer required, and she didn't need to breathe in the contaminated air.

Eve was about to run after the main suspect when a small voice caught Eve's attention. It was the hostage that the suspect had around them.

The same woman was behind the bar as everything around her was on fire, the flames threading closer to her. She couldn't get off the ground it seemed. The smoke and heat were causing her to almost blackout. "H- help...." The woman closed her eyes after using all her strength to speak.

Eve halts and spins right back into the raging fire, flying over to the woman. Eve crouches down and bats the flames away with a powerful gust around them. Eve lifts up the girl slowly. The woman couldn't move or even properly breathe.

Eve didn't breathe as she kept using her power to lack the need for air. Eve could still speak a little, which only sounded like a whisper against the flames. "I'm sorry for getting you in harm's way. Please, Miss. Hold on just a bit longer."

Eve decided to pick up the woman and carry her in her arms. Looking at the surroundings, the exit door was trapped in fallen debris. She had to look for another exit or any route out like the others. She charged for the closest window, which sadly wasn't an already broken one, but it was the quickest way out. Eve crashes through and lands on the ground. She tried to make sure the woman didn't get the ground's impact. The woman started to cough, and gasp for clean air. Luckily she was okay, Eve was relieved.

As Eve tries to get up, along with helping up the woman that was on top of her. Eve continues to carry the woman. She walked around to the front of the building with the suspect in her arms still, as the building was slowly going down in flames. She hears footsteps running over as she turns the corner of the building. It was Grey. He gasped, and let out a relieved, tired sigh. "Oh my GOD, Maestro!!"

Eve didn't process fast enough, as she stared blankly for a moment till Grey rushed over to her side. Backup had arrived and surrounded the scene up front, thanks to Grey's doing. Vans rounded up affiliated suspects. Hopefully an ambulance was on sight as well. With the hostage weak in her arms, Eve needed to get the woman immediate medical attention.

Grey puts a heavy hand on Eve's shoulder, and lowers his head down. "You're alright...." He let out another relieved exhale.

Eve looked down, she went against Grey's warnings, yet he wasn't yelling at her. "I'm so sorry, Agent Grey. I put myself and a victim in danger. I promised not to-" Eve looks over the woman's head to see Victor restrained and sitting on the ground.

"Oh... you caught him! Thank the stars!" Eve beamed, happy, and relieved herself. She had worried the suspect was going to get away.

The suspect looks up at Eve, highly annoyed, as he's suddenly forced up by S.O.U officers, and walks to the squad cars. Outside the flaming building, backup had waited and was gathering all the escaping suspects. No one ended up being able to escape after all. It ended unexpectedly alright. With only property damage, no fatalities, and all were being arrested on sight.

Grey glares at Eve impatiently, with his tension building up. He snaps at Eve. "Grr... Put the girl down already!! I need to make sure you're both okay!" Grey couldn't think about anything but Eve's condition right now. His partner had just been cornered by bad guys in a burning building, and she's acting as if nothing happened.

Eve blinks surprised, indeed seeming oblivious to her own injuries. "Oh... sure. I feel fine though. How about you, Miss? Can you stand?" She asked the woman facing her. Eve wanted to make sure the lady was alright first, before trying to stand. Eve didn't check for anything broken yet.

The woman's face became flushed, wildly blushing, and stumbles in her words. Her eyes were now wide, staring at Eve. "Ye- ahem- yes..." She coughed, from the aftermath of the smoke in her lungs. Her voice sounded a little irritated and dry.

Eve carefully put the girl down. The hostage wobbled, then stood. With the woman out of Eve's arms, Grey's able to get close to his partner. He grabs Eve's shoulders to face him. "Look at me... You're lucky you got out particularly unscathed besides some cuts and bruises... Jeez! Don't do that again, you hear me?!" Grey looks at Eve's disheveled state, and the more he did, he got more snappy.

Whether it was the adrenaline, or that it was over with, Eve giggles. She decided to give a wide, toothy smile. "I'll try, I'll try~ Luckily, everything worked out in the end!"

Eve felt something trickle down her face. She presses a hand to her cheek and sees a bit of blood. She did hurt and ache everywhere, but it was like she was able to tolerate it. It just became uncomfortable, and worth the sacrifice of her own well-being.

Grey rubs his face tiredly, then stares back down at Eve and wipes her cheek, and cleans her lip with his shirt sleeve. Grey huffs frustrated. "God, you're so unbelievable... Listen to me next time. And, get out when it's too dangerous!"

Grey frees Eve's cheek, and she blinks widely, flashing her big blue eyes. "But! I'm so 'unbelievably' good at my work, right? Hehe, just trying to lighten the situation." Eve smiles like an innocent child. Grey tries his best not to have his head burst from frustration.

The woman that had been around the suspect came up to the partner agents. "Um... Miss? Th- thank you, f- for saving I- me. I- I can't thank you enough or... pay you back for it. B- but, I'm so sorry for getting myself trapped there...."

Grey focuses back at the girl, coolly. He responds, sternly asking the woman to explain. "Could you tell us a bit why you were there?"

Getting nervous again, the hostage jolted at Grey's question. She sheepishly answered still, being honest, though she didn't want to reflect on it. "He was keeping an eye on me, so I wouldn't escape. I heard the man sold women, some had powers like me... He then kept threatening me to be sold off, or have my arms burned off, if I misbehaved... Like others that tried to run..." Her eyes go into pure shock as they flush with tears. Her tears were a special wonder too. They looked like blue pearls that floated down weightlessly and bubbled on the ground.

Eve looks down at the pearls, then back up at her. Eve tried to give her a smirk, but it physically hurt a bit too. "Well, you're too good for a man like that, now aren't you? You truly do have a beautiful power. You have the ability to make Crystal Philiris flowers, also known as soul flowers. You make a natural ingredient for spells and potions, it's hard to find those naturally, nowadays. Also, I don't think they saw how purposeful you really are. No one knows how to use those flowers besides 'magicians'."

The woman looks utterly confused. Although she heard her clearly, she didn't understand what Eve meant. Of course, the woman knows nothing about magic or what she can make exactly. "A... what flower? F- for who?"

Eve realized she was getting too excited, and over her head. Eve nervously waves her hands frantically, explaining. "Sorry, probably confusing to spout random stuff... It's rare and very useful for good things. They missed that part when seeing your ability, just how special you TRULY are."

The woman gets close to Eve, almost pleading. "I- I can give you as many flowers as I can make, I- if they're that important!"

Eve jolts back a bit surprised. She then scratches the back of her head and thinks aloud while looking off into space. "Oh, my... I might ask you for 'one' if I need it for something. They are really expensive, or daunting to make... B- but regardless, what I mean to say is that we don't need flowers, but a moment of your time. We need you to come with us for questioning regarding what happened. This information and event are part of a classified case, since this is secretive information from most of the world. Powers are to be hidden, because they can cause, or attract dangers. You're not in trouble, but maybe you'll have to start a new life, to prevent this ever happening again..."

The woman was speechless. She stood there as more pearls streamed down from her eyes, not from fear, but from finally being free again. The overwhelming events had gotten to her. Finally able to process things, but still scared of the unknown of what will happen next. She was freed, but what was after, the woman had no idea.

To Eve, and Grey's surprise, the woman suddenly stumbles close to Eve again. The woman held her chest tightly, face lit up at Eve's. "I- I'm so sorry you were h- hurt because of me... Y- you're my hero." She sweeps, although afraid, there was relief in her sad sighs.

Eve's eyes go wide and mouth agape. She shakes her head suddenly and then coughs into her fist, trying to act cool. "-?! I- it's nothing. You looked so scared back there... You're just an innocent bystander that didn't deserve any of this. I'm sorry you had to experience all of that."

Even Grey looks weirdly between them, feeling like a third wheel to something. But, all three went to the first responders to get aid for both Eve and the woman. All the thugs and the suspect that ran were contained and quickly fled the scene silently in squad vans and cars. Grey took a work car they used to take the woman to the hospital, to talk further about what happened.

___________________________________________________

The agents had interrogated the witness, she easily complied with Eve, before dozing off after an eventful evening. The woman from the incident was already asleep, and recovering quickly in a special agency hospital for the night. After questioning Victor Moore, they take him to a containment cell, in the prison ward below the building.

Although this case was coming to a close, Eve didn't hear the last say from Grey about her actions. Both Grey and Eve just clocked off from a late shift, leaving the unit back to the apartments.

Grey shouts, even though Eve was right next to him, he wanted her to feel his fury. "When I say refrain, that means refrain! Don't you ever pick a fight with another suspect alone! You hear me?! What if you died?! You could have gotten burned to death, or paralyzed!..."

Grey went on, and on, walking back as they reached the elevator inside their apartment. Eve chose to not use run to the stairs like she usually does. She could walk up to the higher floors, not well, but she contemplated as Grey kept scolding her.

Eve tiredly replied, combing her hair with her fingers so that it was less gelled. "Again... I can control flames, but yes, I completely understand..."

Grey looks away and crosses his arms as he huffs angrily. "The building could have, bloody, collapsed on you! And also!... I'm so sorry that this was my fault..." He looked down as his voice became saddened, and his gaze dropped.

Eve whips her head to Grey. "Huh- what?"

Grey faces Eve, even though a part of him didn't want to. His expression was also dreary as he spoke. "It's my fault you were there in the first place on your own. I pushed you to go...."

Eve gawks surprised but then waves her fist angrily. "Wha- THEN WHY ARE YOU YELLING AT ME?!"

Grey waves his arms out ironically the same. Shouting at the same volume. "BECAUSE YOU STILL COULD HAVE DIED!!"

They argued to Grey's floor, Eve held the door open for them to keep yelling at top volume, even departing.

Eve lightly places a hand on her heart, and the other waves away from her. "LOOK!! I'M FINE!! SO LEAVE IT FOR NOW!!" She didn't look fine, but it might have been the adrenaline that was still running through her.

Grey just left it at that, so that they could stop standing around arguing. "Your- you- grr... FINE! But be ready for tomorrow, because you're not leaving my sight till further notice." He practically growled the whole time with his teeth grinding in frustration.

Grey had a deadly presence to him. Anger, now brooding on their whole fight. His voice was raspy and snarling as if he were a wild animal. His eyes were cold yet so full of anger. A look any other agent, or anyone besides Eve, would be cowering terrified. She wasn't and had never been afraid of her partner. Besides his order for her to leave Japan, nothing he did intimidated her.

Eve scoffs, and then shouts at Grey, mimicking him as a child would. "FINE! I've had enough of you nagging for one night. I need to check on Sam. Goodnight...." She mumbled a lot quieter. Then, Eve stopped holding up the doors, and she crossed her arms annoyed. At least she can get Grey off her back now.

Grey realized something after her last statement and turned facing the elevators again. "Oh-? W- wait!" Grey lunges quickly and catches the door from almost closing. He instantly slides it back open, to Eve's discretion.

Eve looks at him surprised. But, Eve then became annoyed and snapped. "What?!"

Grey doesn't snap back, but his voice drew out a bit sorrowful again. "Sam... will see your bruises and will know something happened. You're still hurt."

As if she had forgotten, Eve took a beating. "Oh, right..." Eve assumed, Grey could tell she doesn't like worrying Sameer. She had almost forgotten about her visible injuries.

Grey turns back around. He doesn't look away but just starts walking. "...Quickly, I'll just patch you up, then be done with for tonight."

Eve steps out of the elevator and follows Grey. Grey stops halfway through the hall, and Eve halts suddenly. Eve didn't know what room, or even floor until now.

Grey unlocks his door and holds the door out for Eve. Eve looked around when entering. Of course, there was a lot of grey. But, most of his furniture was white and black, with a grey kitchen, and grey wallpaper.

Eve turns to Grey, also not knowing where to go or sit. She makes light conversation, which didn't really seem appropriate given the circumstances. "Oh. First time being in your apartment. It's nice...."

He wasn't looking to show Eve a house tour. He just wanted the quickest place to patch his partner up. Grey walks to his kitchen and searches a cabinet under his sink. Grey spoke as he was occupied with getting her a first aid kit. "Well, thanks... I guess. Here... I'll just sterilize and ice. Cover it with bandages at least for the night. I'm sorry, but please take off your jacket and roll up those er-... weird sleeves..." Grey walks over, looking at Eve again in her torn up disguise.

Eve luckily didn't have many cuts on her body, mostly just lots of bruising all over. Some were open and bleeding slightly. First responders only cleaned her face up and checked her for anything severe. Yet, after some time Eve's skin opened back up and was bleeding much less than before. It still was enough to be contaminated by the open air. Grey starts by cleaning up Eve's face. He tries to move to Eve's jaw, lightly turning her head. Something loud pops, and she sneers in pain.

"Jeez...." Grey sighs, now just ghosting his hand over Eve's jaw to check her. "Are you sure you're okay...? We can check with a doctor if you might have a concussion..."

Eve closed one eye cringing from the sudden pain. It wasn't that bad compared to her injuries, however. "Yeah, I'm fine. Things are just throbbing like crazy."

Grey tiredly scoffed at his partner. It was her reckless decisions that got her hurt. "Seriously, be more careful next time. I was this close to running in there after you at so many points, but with backup, and you causing a ruckus-... Please, Eve. Just don't try that again." He sighed, and moped the last part, looking away.

Eve jumps up from her seat, and cheers happily. "I will~!"

Grey takes hold of Eve's chin lightly, then tries to speak. "Hold your face still... you're making this difficult." Something, or someone, was making it much harder to clean her up as she moved around.

Eve moves from Grey's hand and attempts to grab the antiseptic, and gauze from him. "Hehehe, I'll just do it. You're tickling me too much, with how gentle you're being."

Grey huffs, pulling the cotton and kit away from Eve. "Well, I was TRYING to make sure it didn't sting too much."

Eve rolls her eyes at Grey, and chuckles doubtfully. "Heh, please... I just got ganged up in a fight to save a girl, I've dealt with machines knocking me down so many times, and rebels have cornered me before. A little bit of stinging is nothing, and you can do whatever you need..."

Eve then closes her eyes, sitting as still as she could with her lips relaxed, and head tilted upwards. Of course, she's positioning her head still so she can get help cleaning the bleeding on her face. Grey took a moment, observing her soft yet bruised features. He spends a moment longer looking at her hurt cheek, her cut lips, and her heavy lashes that covered her eyes.

Then, Grey goes back to thoroughly cleaning and dressing Eve's wounds. He puts a patch on her cheek, and leaves the one on her lip, hoping she won't open it anymore. Grey keeps his hand under Eve's chin, looking at her fair face contrasted with smeared makeup, and dark welts under cuts and bruises. Eve had been through a lot tonight.

Grey suddenly gets up and walks off to the other side of the room with the first aid. "Oh- okay. Get some rest, and we'll talk in the morning...." And with that, they were finished.

Eve didn't seem to mind her cautious partner, and sees herself out. She turns and a small smirk forms on one side of her face. "Thanks, Grey. I'll use a healing water when I get back. Goodnight...."

Eve walked up the stairs slowly at her own pace. She passed a few floors till she got to hers, and thought. She wondered how the mission would have gone differently. She didn't know if what she did was good, or bad.

Eve opens her door and Sam is right there to greet her. Before he could really tell, Eve instantly greets him, a bit raspy and tired even though she was being cheerful. "Hey Sam... I kind of had a crazy day, but I'm alright! Got in a bit of a fight with an enemy but we got him." She smiled at Sameer while watching for his reaction.

Eve sits down so she could pet Sameer's head. He suddenly got on his back two legs and sat upwards and onto Eve's shoulders gently. He licks Eve's face and one of her hands that was bandaged from being cut by some broken glass.

"Sam?!- hehe, ahaha! Stop, that tickles! Haha, cut it out! I'm alright Sam, I'm right here, all in one piece!" Eve smiles and brings her furry friend into a big hug.

Time had passed, days gone by, and little by little Eve's been adjusted to most of her work. Still head-strong, and vocal as she is. Eve was getting along with others. People sometimes flocked to her, having questions, and wanting to know interesting stories about Eve. She started to feel deja vu from being a music idol, just about her powers. And, her partner Agent Grey, could tell by how many people try to distract her from working.

Luckily for Grey, they get some time out of the office, and around coworkers, for a special occasion that'll take the full work-day. Eve had been getting excited, seeing that information about the sanctuaries had been popping up more recently. Today was the big day, and Grey only hoped for no troubles.

One was indeed excited to go. Another, not as much, especially now. Waiting in front of Eve's door, Grey could hear singing, running, and galloping from the other side, as he knocked on her door. Eve opens the door, and Sameer pops his head out from beside her. She looks up to meet Grey's eyes in surprise, then smiles warmly.

Grey's expression stayed cold and emotionless. He spoke just as monotone. "Ready for today?"

Eve hugs the edges of the doorframe with her hands and nods. "Mhm! Although... You're early, right? I thought we weren't flying till later?" She tilts her head to the side in question.

Grey shrugs slightly. He cleared Eve's wondering, and spoke. "Right, I just wanted to stop by earlier, make sure you and Sam are prepared. And, I hope you'll both be on your best behavior."

Eve opens the door more, acting coy. "Aww~ Don't trust us~? Hehe, don't worry. I'm just excited to go. Sam will be fine with me the whole time."

Grey observers them fully now. Eve put a large bandanna around Sam's neck in a similar color to her blue button-up. For a grown white tiger, he looked and acted like a big domesticated cat. Though, with his experience, Sam's definitely a ferocious tiger when it comes to attacking intruders.

Eve waves Grey in as he's looking between them. Eve closes the door as he slowly walks in. Grey wasn't doubting Eve fully, but he knows she's unpredictable sometimes. "Well, I wanted to see for myself. I suppose you aren't too nervous about seeing a new facility, even different creatures and plants?"

Eve shakes her head and smiles bluntly. "Nope! Heh, I'm trying to keep my excitement and hopes up so that if it goes wrong at least we tried being prepared. Not much, but if they try anything, one angry tiger, and one angry magician, doesn't 'spell' a quiet fight, heh."

And, the unpredictable worry came again. Although Grey was hoping it's just his worry, he really has to make sure she doesn't. "Uh, I think it'll be fine, Eve... Please don't try to fight anyone. I've only been there a few times, just briefly for missions. It's not like it's a bunch of small cages in the dark corner of a small facility."

Eve keeps a grin permanently on her face as she walks off behind Grey. "Funny, I thought they'd be like that, or at least some places in the government."

He stops looking at Eve and just coolly looks around, as if he hadn't seen Eve's place a few times before. "Well, sadly I've been to a few that do, they're not associated with the secret council, and sectors we're in. That's what the other part of the government does that we can't control their decision making. The one we're going to, they know of powers, odd creatures and flora. They try to keep them safe and hidden, away from the public that could use them for dangerous reasons."

"That's still sad for those sections that keep things in cages and tortured... But, hopefully that could be changed one day...." Eve mumbled as she lowered her hand to her heart, as it ached a bit.

To get the bad facilities out of her head, Eve changes the subject, and goes back to smiling. "Hey, want some tea or coffee? We have lots of time." Eve had already been walking before Grey even responded.

Grey looks away aloof and responds, as Eve watches him off to the side. "Just give me black tea. Nothing added."

Eve turns to her kitchen, looking for a kettle and strainer. She peers over occasionally as she's talking to Grey. "Sure thing! So... you've been to this place before. How would you describe it?"

Grey leans on Eve's dining table, imagining the facility they'll see soon enough. "Well, it's a large building, so large there's a big indoor garden where everything is mainly kept. Most track the stuff there, analyze them, keep them healthy... Mm, stuff like that."

Eve passes Grey a warm cup and he takes in the moment to drink to wake up. "Thanks." He hummed.

Eve tilts her head innocently and gives a big smile to Grey. She hops into her kitchen counter and swings her feet. "You're welcome. Fancy anything to eat? It's probably best to eat something light now before we go."

Grey snapped his attention up at Eve, idling on her counter, then down at his cup. Grey was acting almost nervously. He was originally hoping to pay back the past meals, coming early to ask her. But then again, Grey's never seen Eve eat anything but her own meals, some snacks excluded however. Grey ponders, and still asks Eve. "A- actually, is there anything you're craving right now? Could be anything, not just from your fridge."

Eve thinks, then looks past Grey in a trace as she draws out, melodically. "Mm... Chocolate~."

Grey cocks his head instantly at Eve. "That's not exactly a meal- Sigh... Never mind...." Grey just resorted to drinking his tea, moping.

Eve leaps to one side with her hands knit behind her back. She giggles lightly. "Hehe, I'm perpetually craving sweets, but I could also go for some food. I have stuff that doesn't take long to cook up." Eve jumps from the counter, heading to the fridge.

Eve immediately started to rummage around her fridge and cabinets. Grey pops up beside her as she closes the fridge door. "May I help with anything?" Grey at least wanted to do something for Eve. She was hard to do things for. She was like that for a lot of people and reasons.

Eve smiles as Grey, and now Sam follows her over to the counter space. "Peel stuff for me?" SHe innocently askes.

Grey gave Eve a skeptical stare. He taps on the countertop, then drops his hand down, sighing. "Alright, but I can do a lot more once I'm done."

It took some time convincingly, but Eve let Grey help. He was able to prepare with Eve, and watch the stove when Eve didn't. No matter the handful of times eating together over the few months, Eve's opened up, but not to other's help. Like, every time she offers to cook solely.

"So...." Grey starts off, calming speaking over the stove, beside Eve. "How'd you get so good at cooking for yourself?" He asks her.

Eve gives a light, hearted chuckle. She looks down smiling as she speaks. "Since I was young, I wanted to help make food for me and my father. He was always at his desk ever since he changed to working at home. He stopped cooking and bought takeout all the time."

Grey shifts his eyes, just glancing at Eve. "Ah, I see... Did you learn by yourself?"

Eve answers Grey's questions. "Mostly, after a while. I remember trying to 'help' my mom cook when I was really little. After that, it took time, and a few bad dishes to learn how my mom was able to make such delicious food for me and my dad. I never saw my dad cook, so I thought I'd help out. He was diagnosed with clinical depression when I was young. He didn't have much motivation. I took up a lot of the cooking and cleaning to support us." She thought through memories, pleasantly, with a bittersweet feeling felt behind.

Grey seems to watch what he says next. "Oh, I see... You really loved your father." He didn't want to bring up anything she wasn't comfortable with. But, she did bring up some more information about her old life, outside of her music.

Eve hums, closing her eyes for a moment thinking back. "I still do, and my mother. They're not physically here, but they're still part of me... and I'm here because they were truly in love. Both were mostly outcasted by their families because of it, especially my father's side. I'm still happy for the time I had with both of them, even if it was brief... They were really the only family I had, but they showed me what love, and kindness was.

Eve noticed a somber silence from Grey. She didn't want Grey to be saddened by her past.Eve wanted to emphasize why she started to cook. Because people cared for her, and she cared for them. She didn't know if Grey had anyone like that growing up. She never heard much from Grey's past besides the accident with his last partner. He 'did' care for them, maybe still does. "Was there... anyone you had around you, that you cared for?"

Grey thinks, but surprisingly says a new fact about them. "Oh, my Nana. She passed when I was younger, but she was the only person who cared about me. In her poor health, it seemed I was the only one that cared for her back."

It was something both could relate to a bit, but Eve felt a bit awkward with the odd heart to heart they were having. "Aw, I'm sorry. At least you had each other." Her eyes wandered as she spoke, looking at Grey, or somewhere cooking.

Grey tries to go back to focusing on the food, and on lighter things. "It's alright. Moving on to something more positive, hopefully. Remembering the past still and all, what got you into music?"

The past was the past, and everything felt the same no matter what memory, besides the ones from the desert. Eve still kept it light and peaceful, closing her eyes, humming calmly. "I was always dancing to tunes and singing as a child. I took ballet and orchestra, later jazz and then self-teaching a lot. I didn't do choir with my tight schedules, but took up singing lessons later on for a while. I just wanted to post music and dancing. Much later, I started showing who I was other than a person posting videos. I ended up seeing myself grow a career, and a musical journey out of it."

"It must have been nice having a job like that. Doing something like that, and enjoying it so. S- Sorry, we may have cut that short, and all. I hope you can forgive us for that... Eventually." Grey stumbled, awkwardly speaking.

Eve acts like she's contemplating in thought. "Hm... I can only adapt, than say the agency's more fun than making music, for me. But, for what seems important, I don't know. The agency's important, as much as I think making people smile is too. It's good to ensure safety, so, it's okay, hehe." She toys.

Grey understands more of what Eve was like before the agency, and not in the desert. Family was an unspoken thing she cherished. Things like how she had some practice cooking for her father growing up. A lot changed after her mother, then father's death. She had to learn, and make mistakes all on her own, till she became good at certain skills. She loves to cook for people, and cooking for Grey reminded of the times with her father.

Eve had very young memories of her mother, but she kindled a lot of what Eve grew passionate about. Her mother was the one who introduced her to cooking, music, and ballet. It was probably how Eve got into a career in music, because her mother loved it too.

Grey learned more about Eve, and Eve learned a little about him slowly too. This time it felt more personal than asking about her music and things related to that. That's something she'd put out there herself, and the entertainer she was, everyday. But, she never mentioned family, even long distant relatives, or many interactions besides people online, or with close ones. For acting so extroverted, Grey sees Eve was an introvert at heart. Or, she was so much in her own little world, she was untouchable to many. The untouchable pair, one stone cold, the other a bubbly idol.

After cooking together, they sit and Grey sits across from Eve. Sameer, as always, sitting by her. Everyone had their favorite places to sit at the dining table together. They continued to eat and chat, till it was time to leave. With some time to spare they all casually hang around Eve's apartment. Grey explains to both of them the rules and what to expect. Now Grey's back to business, but his tone and talking earlier was much softer now.

_______________________________________________

Eve, Grey, and Sameer had all made it to the unit's rooftop next. They board on a jet that was set for taking them to the sanctuary. It wasn't long till they reached their destination, but the scenery had changed drastically. They were in a partial desert landscape. The ground was mostly hard, dry earth, with only tall grass around. But, beside the plane as they exited was a gated, large, similarly colored earthy building with a large glass dome on top. Looking through the glass, there were treetops that peered over the building.

Eve stops once her feet are on the ground, observing the big facility. Both Grey, and Sameer stood by Eve's side, looking as well. But, Grey takes his attention back to Eve, before he walks off to the security at the gate entrance. Eve and Sam follow quickly behind. Eve snapped out of her glazing quickly. Back to discovering exactly what 'this' was.

Inside, it was bright like a giant hospital lobby. Eve's boots seemed to echo to endless halls wrapped in a circle. There were many doors, and one big double door in front. From the looks of greenery from the other side, it was the main enclosure.

A woman in a white coat appears from the halls, and keeps walking towards Eve, Grey, and Sam. She looks at them, and both partners turn and face her. The woman holds out a hand to Eve first. "Welcome, I am Doctor Corer. I assume Sam is him." She looks down at Eve's furry companion beside her. Sam nods, to speak for himself. He assumed he should get it out of the way.

Eve shakes her hand, trying to combat her nervousness, and nods. She raises her head a bit, observing the woman meeting them. Age showing under her eyes and in her originally dark, curly brown hair. But, she stuck as serious, and beautiful in her confident stature. This was the lead doctor the director had been in contact with about their case.

Eve places a hand lightly to her heart. "Yes... I am Agent Maestro, Sam is my friend. And, this is my partner, Agent Grey." Eve waves both arms pointing to Sam, then Grey's direction when speaking.

Grey shakes the doctor's hand and they both observe Eve and Sam. Sam looks between everyone curiously. When he stopped at the doctor, he lifted a paw, and tried to say hello with a small wave. Eve watched unfazed, but Grey cocked his head slightly at it. Doctor Corer understood, in a way, and made note of it. She would be observing how Sameer behaves and acts through this whole meeting.

Doctor Corer looks back to Eve, and calmly speaks. "Alright. If you'll allow me, I want to ask a few questions, and evaluate him. I'll also give you a tour of the sanctuary, and what we're protecting here before we start."

Eve nods sincerely. At least it was being handled much better than the other facilities they could have gone to. Goes to show that the S.O.U, and others, weren't as cruel and restrictive. "Alright, please show us the way."

The entry was normal white, so was the hall. But, once they passed the two large doors, it immediately became a jungle. The trees Eve saw outside were part of a lush indoor garden, packed heavily with trees and bushes, along with a tall, heavily enforced fence that was to each side of them.

Immediately as Eve looks around, something makes a zapping noise, and she looks past the fence. An odd plant has sparks coming out of the drooping buds, and a small, odd, lizard-like creature was trying to zap it right back using its tail. Eve is amazed, and looks back at the group. Sameer saw it, but everyone else hadn't heard the noise, and was walking away. Eve and Sam pace quickly behind them again.

There was a narrower path straight through the center, gated in parts so that workers could come in to feed and care for the creatures on the other side. As they started to walk further along the path the doctor was leading them, Eve heard and saw a bit more of the active life around them.

Eve's eyes couldn't help but light up as she was marveling at the scenery. "Wow~... This is beautiful." Eve said her thoughts aloud.

Doctor Corer chuckles a bit, and turns to Eve, still leading them. "It is, isn't it?"

Eve cutely tilts her head and brings a finger to the other cheek. She questions, bubbly and surprisingly unafraid. "Do any get aggressive?"

Dr. Corer shakes her head as she continues walking ahead. "Not many on hand, some however are a bit more hostile. Due to protocols, we have to cage aggressive creatures in separate enclosures. The rest can be fenced off, with no hostility towards the others."

Eve looks around, and listens into the subtle rustling and sounds. Eve imagines what it must be like, taken to someplace new. Hopefully protected, but was similarly to her situation. She could imagine them scared, but hopefully not for long. Eve's face furrowed in worry.

Grey adds, reassuring his partner, since it was her first time there. And, Grey noticed the silence and expression Eve was making. "Maestro, it's okay. They still get well fed and cared for."

Dr. Corer nods facing them, then faces forward again and walks on. "Indeed. As we are constantly learning about these creatures, we use part of that information to find their suitable needs. New ones have trails of foods, exercises, and comfortably to see what works. We constantly write down observations and track how they behave."

Eve's relieved to hear. The endangered creatures definitely needed the right care. They all go deeper into the sanctuary, where they can see more movement from behind the gates. Some things started to get closer to the fences the more they ventured.

After passing a few creatures Eve's never seen, and stopping at any that stood in front of her. It was unlike anything. Plants she's never seen, sadly she doesn't know if they're magical. But, from the first plant she saw near the entrance, some have abilities, which seemed like it could be used as a magical ingredient. Some animals had abilities, but a very slim few. Some creatures looked like sentients to normal animals, and some looked like nothing from this earth. Some flew, hovered, had antlers, glowing eyes, tendrils, and other strange details.

After sometime walking along the fence, Eve makes another stop, as a small creature has her undivided attention. "Wow~...."

Grey grunts annoyed in Eve's direction. He stares at his partner tiredly. "You've been saying 'wow' to everything you see." He quoted vaguely and rolled his eyes. He wonders how she keeps up all that excitement.

Eve holds a hand close to a fence with an odd, furry, yet shapeless-like creature that was jumping in circles in front of Eve. Its body weirdly stretched as it spun around. She turns her attention away from it, and giggles at Grey. "It's just so beautiful here. The sunlight and forestry is fantastic. There's so much space and biome... We don't know if they're happier here, it's still better for being in a new home."

Eve turns back to the cute creature that's now looking up at her, wiggling around. It seemingly wanted to play, or get her attention back again. Eve pressed on its nose lightly through the fence. The furry creature ran around in a circle excitedly, stretching its body. Then, it faced back to her again, body shrinking back to its normal, fluid-like state.

Eve looks back, after getting distracted by the creatures, over to Doctor Corer. "I must ask, about Sam... Have you found any creatures that appear like animals we normally see?" She gets back to the task at hand, which Grey is relieved about.

Doctor Corer looks uncertain at Eve, not the most reassuring sign. The doctor tries to elaborate her explanation. "That is where we don't have any creatures that fit that specific type, that we know of yet. I will have to run a small test to see. Maybe his DNA would tell us anything."

Eve tenses up hearing the word 'test' and Sam's 'DNA'. Grey noticed his partner tense up. He knew that face she was making that she was getting worried. Grey knows not to have Eve get too much in her head. She becomes unpredictable for Grey. "Maestro, it's okay. She just wants to see if it'll prove any more to your question."

"Yes, and if you don't want me to run everything with machines, I can check something now...." After speaking, Dr. Corer's eyes then glowed a bright white. To Eve's surprise, the doctor was also an ability-user. Dr. Corer looks at Sameer. Sam, and both agents watch the doctor. Eve felt something a bit, like a breeze just whispered to her for a moment. It felt, and sounded familiar.

Eve looks between Sam and the doctor curiously. Although she didn't see anything change, she knew something was going on that she just couldn't see. "Oh? You did something, I felt that too."

The doctor keeps their glowing gaze at Sam, but explains. "Indeed. I'm checking his 'soul' of sorts."

Eve curiously observes Dr. Corer. She's been wanting Yamehl to check Sam's soul. It was a topic Eve had asked about with her mentor, but their escape made it challenging for Sam to come back to the place they were imprisoned.

Maybe Corer would help see his soul instead. She was curious once and checked Sam's aura. Sam had a white aura like any other animal, but it was big, and bright like Eve's almost. She only saw his aura once and had been waiting to ask her mentor about what it meant. He'd be able to see both, and know more about it.

Eve goes wide-eyed, surprised and excited. She gasps and waves her hands frantically. "His soul? Neat! I can see the outside aura! Can you see auras, or just the souls?"

Grey interjects, facing his partner a bit nervously. "Maestro, calm down...."

Although her voice sounded just the same, Dr. Corer chuckles a bit. She calmly spoke. "You have a similar power too?"

Grey now turns back to the doctor. "N- no, she doesn't exactly. She's a special case, and can perform many abilities. You could say, she has multiple...."

"Oh. I've never heard of that before." Dr. Corer turns to Eve curiously. Her face was often relaxed, but the doctor gave a small smile, still calmly speaking. "You and your friend, Sam, are the most interesting pair I've met."

Eve definitely took that as a compliment. She was happy to explain her magic, as simply as she could. "Hehe, it's understandable. My ability is starlight. However, I'm able to do a few other things, alone or with a tool. Like aura-reading. I can tell you what your aura looks like! May I?!"

Doctor Corer chuckles at Eve's excitement, and nods. "Heh, sure. It'll be the first, since it doesn't work in a mirror." For Eve, she understood why the doctor couldn't, because mirrors don't reflect their spiritual form.

Eve excitedly jumps, then closes her eyes. She stomps her foot lightly and a wind flows from her to the doctor. Opening her eyes again, they glowed, and Eve saw Corer's aura. "Oooh, so pretty~! You have a colorful ring! It's very interesting, there's a small ring just round your heart too." Eve cups her face, and marvels at the sight.

A colorful spectrum of light was around Corer. It gleamed, as well as a smaller ring that was wrapped around her heart indeed. Corer took her word for it, as she couldn't be able to check herself. She does however, look to see if she could see the one on her heart. She placed a hand on her chest, and she could see the glow from the light and shadows on her hand. "I've never noticed the small circle around my own heart before. Hm, interesting."

As new discoveries and revelations, Grey scoffs, breaking the cheerful atmosphere between shared ability-readers. He crosses his arms and looks away from them. "Hmph, it's odd how you two can talk so casually, like it's nothing out of the ordinary to see 'souls' and 'auras'..."

Dr. Corer chuckled. She speaks, which surprised Eve, once she started explaining. "We might try matching his DNA, and soul, with other creatures. I was informed that it might be too much to ask, but there might be a chance we'll need a small sample of blood. We'll try with the saliva and hair tests first. That will hopefully be enough to analyze, so we don't have to do the former." It seemed they were already informed by the director of Eve's protection over Sam. Which may have been an 'over-protected' nature.

Eve nods nervously, just from wondering what will and could happen. "Okay, that'll be alright."

Now that the agreement was settled, they could start looking into research of what makes tigers capable of understanding languages. "Alright, it'll take time for the full results. But, I'll check something quickly in our lab, before you go. Follow me."

The group follows Dr. Corer to a door, inside was a makeshift lab workshop, and emergency care station. Corer sits down at a computer and brings a microscope connected to it close to her. After collecting a saliva sample, Dr. Corer inspects it under the scope, and pulls up something to her computer. "Hmm... Looking at his cells, and comparing it to species of snow tiger, they're fairly similar. We'll have to run more tests. See if he's an intelligent tiger, or something more. Once we get more results."

Eve tries to be polite, questioning softly as she was still nowhere close to figuring out what Sameer was. "Is there anything you'd make a guess of?"

Dr. Corer props a fist to her chin and ponders. She shakes her head, not confident in the answer. "It's hard to imagine rare things... But, I do know there's a rescue for rehabilitated lab experiments. Sometimes we get a few animals that have been altered beyond its normal species. Maybe Sam was tested on by other agencies."

That made Eve's heart drop. For the reason that places like that exist, and if Sameer was ever in one. Eve's eyes go wide and she bumbles through her words in shock. "T- that's terrible!..." She couldn't imagine why people would alter peaceful lives, for research, or any purpose.

Dr. Corer nods slowly. She couldn't agree more. "Yes... I don't see any alterations in his cells, but maybe it's something deeper in his DNA. Even if he's not an experiment, he still has an interesting case. We'll see what we can find, even if some animal minds can become more cognitive."

Eve nods, processing all her worry, and thoughts. She turns to Sameer, slightly unnerved by the conversation. He looks up at her. Eve tilts her head to him, questioning. "Sam? Are you... a government experiment, maybe? I don't really see that."

Sameer looks confused and shakes his head, but then shrugs his shoulders. Sam didn't, nor couldn't know what he was. If he did, then he couldn't explain it to them either. It seemed impossible to get any information this way.

The furthest of Sam's memories, and most of his life before Eve, could possibly have been in cages. It would have been difficult to end up in the desert, being an experiment overseas, if that was the case. She'd have to learn who sold off Sam to a distant emperor, and why. He was a rare breed of tiger, but a breed that understood humans was still unheard of. Eve thinks deeply into the possibilities still. It seemed like no matter the creature, Sameer was nothing like anything she saw in the sanctuary.

Dr. Corer looks one more time at the DNA through the microscope. She speaks, turning back to the partner agents, and tiger companion. "And, for a moment, if you'd please. The director wanted me to show a couple of samples of plants also reigned here."

Eve knows this is for her. "Oh? It's the director's order?" As a reminder, the director wanted Eve to look at the creatures and plants, comparing it to the things she's learned previously.

Dr. Corer nods. "Yes. Follow me." She turns to the doors, and the group then follows her out into the hallway again.

They were led to a room that was a little dimmed. The lights were off, but all the windows shine in, along with several UVB and ultra lights. Inside, plants and things that resemble it were growing in small rows in planter boxes, or glass chambers singled out. Some grew different colors. Some were just oddly growing from the soil in spiraling or sharp, jagged stems outward.

Everyone files in the room, and Dr. Corer goes to a side room, where storage shelves full of contained jars with air pumping through to each one. Eve sees her take tubes out of glasses and carries the jars out. Walking back out, Corer speaks. "We have many record materials, but the director had asked for a few in specific. He asked for your knowledge of rare minerals and herbs."

Eve nods and excitedly beams. "Oh! Sure then! Seems interesting enough...." Dr. Corer sets a few plant samples out, and immediately something catches Eve's eye. Corer goes to take all the plants and a stone out of their containment with crucible tongs, and organizes them on a lab table, for Eve to observe.

Eve picks up a dark blue flower from the center. Smaller, but looked like it was frozen over, with yellow, glowing polyps on the stems. Immediately it gave a chill that quickly went through her gloves and flushed her in a cold wave. Then, still holding on, it became warmer than it was originally in the room. This strange flower, a similar ingredient that she has seen before. ".... Where did you find this one? The Atlantic?" She twirls the flower in her hand, looking it over thoroughly.

Dr. Corer nods, as plainly but she looked nervous for some reason when Eve held the flower. And, how it was still in her hand, and Eve was just fine. "Yes, actually. You've seen this before?" She eyes Eve and the flower.

Eve didn't want to mention how she would get it, and from where it winds up, but she explains. "It's used for changing the weather temporarily. I've come upon a few in my life, and used them."

A familiar ingredient found in the agency's possession. This could be expected, but still a surprise to everyone in the room. Corer verifies with Eve. "Interesting. A research team found a small patch of these in an Atlantic forest on a trek. I heard it was difficult to keep as cargo, it zaps all the heat from anything it touches. That's all we really know about it. We keep all of our plants for research, and care for them. One that creatures eat or like, we keep in the main room to grow naturally."

Eve looks up from the flower at Dr. Corer. Eve was acting uncharacteristically serious. "I know someone who can handle them. That's good, at least you're finding a purpose for it. I assume the ones unfamiliar to me haven't been used or able to be in the areas I've worked in...."

Eve's eyes glow a bright blue, she looks at the flower that way. She inspects it again, this time sharing some of her power with it, making the polyps burst a small golden mist around it. "The only thing these plants have in common is that they have a power, like us. We can even connect to different, and new forces." As she was, and it was responding in a way no one else in the room had seen before. It looked like the flower was blooming, growing taller, buds sprouting, and a mist covering it like golden, small clouds.

Dr. Corer couldn't recall a moment the plant behaved like that. "Fascinating... How did you do it?" She could see Eve use her power, but she didn't know it wasn't her star-power. It was just like using energy, like when identifying their kind to one another. The next step was the connection, something magicians practice.

Eve let's out a chuckle. She couldn't give a full explanation, as she's tried with Grey before, but still puts it simply. "Heh, I don't think I can explain it, if you haven't experienced it already. If you hear and feel something, you feel your ability wanting to make a connection."

Eve walks around the table and hovers a hand over the objects. "But... All of these here have different essences. I see the director picking out these specific elemental powers."

Eve's eyes glow again. As before, now just activating each plant and stone in a row. It was like a show of different lights, and they grew slightly as they did. Some did things like flash red, have plums of mystic smoke appear, or the stone flashing a bright green. "... This one is hot, though nothing's burning. This one, I feel like I'm in a lucid dream. This stone flower seems like it needs more dry soil to grow, than a container full of air. A stone that helps grass grow. A flower that breathes, ironically it's filtering the air. That seems like a good one to plant."

Dr Corer keeps a serious tone, as she looks down more focused on the changing of plant specimens that had just changed just then. "We know some insight to these but nothing that we can't observe. Some plants seem to be sporadic. Seeing you handle and control them just now, was unimaginable." She looks back at Eve, more curious to what this agent exactly was.

Grey pipes in, as Eve would start boasting about magic and things they wouldn't be able to comprehend. "Maestro has the power to connect with substances like this. Even use plants like these as ingredients. So, she's a natural in this field." He coolly explains.

Eve giggles, nodding at Grey's statements. She places a hand to her heart, offering the idea. "I can also have a friend see if they know anything. I know an expert that knows almost all rare substances on earth, maybe beyond too."

Corer smiles happily. It was mentioned Eve could help offer new techniques, and new research performed. As promised, it was like questions that had, or didn't know they had, were being answered. "Ah, identifying some of our plants, and whatever else, would be great help. However we can form help in our research, we talk more later. I'll also be finding out anything about Sam here, for the time being."

Grey nods plainly and seriously to the doctor. "Let us know of any results you find. We'll be on our way."

Dr. Corer shakes both partner's hands again, and Sam's paw, as a farewell. "Of course. Thank you again for coming."

Eve faces Dr. Corer, and bows and a hand to her heart. Eve liked the sanctuary, the doctor, and being able to come in the first place. "Thank you very much for your help. I appreciate your time helping us."

Sameer sits calmly, and also bows his head as they say goodbye. The agents, and tiger, all leave. Corer shows them out and gives them a final wave goodbye through the gates. They take off again back to the unit, as they all hopefully get results soon in time.

____________________________________________________

It's late and Eve's already ate and freshened up after a day at the sanctuary and traveling. Work was short, just having the trip for the day to do. She uses a key to go up to the rooftop, so she could have some time with Sameer under the cloudy night sky. The stars in the city were even more hidden from sight from the clouds. A plume of grayness partly enclosed the moon beneath its glow.

In an act to calm her racing thoughts, Eve sighs heavily, and then looks up to the sky, and a flourish of her arms to follow. She takes a slow stride and waves her arms from side to side. She then spun, swishing her arms around, sending glimmers of light.

Eve circles her arms around each other, and then reaches up high with one hand. She twirls her fingers to grab hold of golden webs of light that stick to her fingertips from the air. Small bright dews of liquid glimmered, sliding from the strands and onto Eve's hand. She brings her hand closer to inspect. The dewy threads extended from her hand, to the endless connection it had with the night's gray and grim sky above.

She hums to her, and Sameer, who was laying down watching her. "Hmm, it looks like there will be heavy rain soon. I guess we'll have to head inside."

She turns her attention to Sameer in the corner laying down relaxing. Yet she looks back to the moon and thinks off to herself for a moment more. "So much information this world has, yet so much is unknown... Ugh... My head's spinning just thinking about it." After cradling her head, Eve inhales deeply. Something in her head was pounding, yet somewhere over her head felt like it was aching too.

Eve reaches out to the sky again, and exhales deeply. She then closes her eyes, and smiles. "Ah~ bless the light that fills the universe... May all hear the hopes of Elder in the wind's whispers. Polaris... please give me your strength and light. Let the world shine as bright as you, one day...." Eve opens her eyes to meet the night's atmosphere again. She then opens both her arms and raises them, as if going to embrace the sky.

"... Amen? Do you normally do that, or some sort of ritualistic prayer?" A familiar, gloomy voice from behind Eve, suddenly interrupts.

Eve quickly whips her head to see Grey leaning on the door. He'd been off duty for a while, yet he just ditched his tie and untucked his shirt and sleeves. His hair was also more to the side, less neater than before. Eve was a bit curious as to why he was still up. Even Eve had changed hours ago and was relaxing on the roof in her pajamas and a sweater.

She had no idea when he got there. She was taken back, surprised. "W- what? No, I'm not praying... at least I don't think so. I don't know what I do exactly, I just talk, and sometimes something happens. If not, I still have my thoughts protected into space, hehe."

Grey rolls his eyes and sneers mockingly at Eve. "Har har, very philosophical, if you intended for that. Well, what are you doing up here so late? You said it'll rain soon."

Eve scoffs in a joking manner, crossing her arms and shaking her head at him. "Gotta be around me once I step foot out the door? Besides when you're at my door? Hehe." She teased, with a bit of sass.

Grey answers plainly. "No, surprisingly. I actually wanted to get some air up here, to clear my head. I was just waiting till you noticed, but I haven't been here for long. So, what are you doing besides 'projecting'?" He used air quotes to emphasize his question again.

Eve toys a bit. Her voice sounded animated, but it was a calmer tone. Rather than excitedly higher pitched. "Hehe, that was a spur of the moment, but I was also just getting some air. I was just thinking about... a lot, and I needed a second to compose myself." She drops her head a bit, and softly cradles it in a palm as she turns away from Grey. Eve was tired, but she didn't want it to show.

Grey, too monotone and work-centered, observes Eve, and her recent troubles as a result. "Hm... seems the added work you're taking on might be weighing on you. I know everything has been a lot to take in, so I can be an ear for you. I will not use you for work anymore, or make it seem like I don't care. You can also talk to me about whatever's the matter."

Eve tiredly chuckles. She tilts her head and looks over to Grey. "Well, I was thinking about my entire life, but the work also ties to everything. I'm still getting adjusted, though it's not so bad, I guess. I just have a LOT of questions. With what I thought I knew, and what I know now... What happened when I first discovered my powers, or when accidentally showing 'Mehl... Or, wondering... what would have happened if I was brought up into the agency, like you...." She turns away, not looking Grey in the eyes.

Grey sees Eve's attempt to hide her expression. Yet, he could hear it in her voice how somber and bothered she was. "It... it's different for everyone. You maybe would have been the same, ran away, or never found your true potential. I'm not sure you'd be as powerful if you were taken like me. So, don't worry about that...."

Eve scrunches her face confused at Agent Grey. "When were you taken?"

Grey scratches the back of his head and looks away. He then thinks critically, and lowers his attention down at the rooftop. "I was... young. Maybe... 14? Younger? Still, old enough to go to school and I learned from private schooling as well as lessons about random abilities and our secret society. And, most were around my age or older...."

Eve tilts her head curiously. "What do you remember from before that?"

Grey slightly shook his head. He didn't face her as he grimly spoke. "... Not good memories, and I remember the secret unit was my escape route...."

Eve down her gaze and speaks sincerely. "I see... Apologies, if it's rude that I asked."

Grey eyes Eve, and tiredly bores out. "It's fine. It's not something that defines me, but I learned from it. It's nothing I ever have to worry about but it's so... beneath me now, that I don't want to even think of it as a part of my life. Or... talk about it, since it seems so foreign to me."

Eve looks at Grey, more sorrowfully. She places a hand to her heart, as if it ached. "I'm sorry it seems like you have a troubling past..."

Grey changed his tone a bit exaggerated, yet tired still. He wanted to correct her statement. "As I've said before, I'm unlucky. Not a lot of luck has been on my side, misfortune always comes...."

Eve leans to the side over to Grey, and smiles. "As an optimist would say, good fortune comes after, or eventually. They both do, and that is life. I hope you'll have some better luck one day, then you won't curse yourself as misfortunate."

Grey raised one side of his mouth slightly. "Heh, I hope so too, then." He breathed out. Definitely hoping one day to feel what having luck is like.

A trickle of rain falls on Eve's head. She jolts and looks up. "Okay, Sam definitely needs to get inside, before he gets cold and wet."

Eve buzzes closer to the Grey, and the door. He was kind enough to step away and open it. "Alright, after you two." He holds the door for Eve to rush Sam back in, and then he follows.

Grey closes and locks the door. He swirls the keys with his finger, then places them back in his pocket walking down. Eve and Sam start to walk again down the stairs, so Grey could follow.

Eve leans over with her fingers intertwined together and holding just below her chin. She gives a small, awkward grin. "I'm sorry you didn't get some alone time on the rooftop."

Grey shrugs slightly. He tried to act aloof. "I still got to distract my thoughts, so I'll be fine."

Eve beams a warm smile up at him as she turns a corner of the stairwell. "Well, good! Hopefully you can sleep tonight."

Grey brushes his hand on the wall and pauses as he looks at her. "Hopefully, and you too...."

They reach Eve's floor first, Grey follows Eve until they are in the warmly lit hallway, when Eve turns to him. She smiles, she pats Sam's head softly. Grey was the first to speak, very softly. "So... See you tomorrow, and have a good rest of your guy's night." He says to Eve directly.

Eve beams up at him again with a very calm and sincere look. "Hehe, we will, you too. Nighty-night, Grey."

Eve closes the door to her apartment, and she waits by the door. She hears Agent Grey's footsteps go down the hall. Then, as an old custom, she put a magic seal around the door. Sounds and sights of a flash from the cracks of the door. Eve goes to her room with Sameer and sits beside her bed. She takes out the crystal communicator necklace, and activates it in her dimly lit room. The light from the living room creeping from the door was the only light in Eve's room.

Eve sees the crystal flashing, then staying a small glow. She speaks through the crystal, hoping to reach her mentor. "Yamehl! How are you? Are you okay?!"

And, as Eve was hoping in anticipation, her mentor speaks. Yamehl speaks calmly and cheerfully. His voice pressed more tired and deep as he mentioned his ongoing work.

'Heh, I'm well. Nothing's happened, so not to worry. Things over here are still taking time. I'm targeting the location of your soul, from having never been or seen the place you were taken to. Forgive me, as I need more time. I hope you've been better.'

Eve shakes her head, like she was shocked. Her mentor's disappointment in his searching wasn't an issue he needed to have. After how long she's been working, and putting up with the new scenery, it wasn't as bad. Life had changed, but it wasn't so bad that she needed rescuing. It was more like she was slowly needing to rescue the agency, for whatever they need her so much for. "I've been getting adjusted to life here, but it's not the same, nor does it feel like home. It's alright for now, since I'll soon be able to come to you."

That was something they've both been holding onto, being able to see each other again. Both Eve and Yamehl were happy. The worry of being torn apart was something they feared, when Eve was taken to the S.O.U. headquarters. Yamehl was almost reminded, as Eve mentioned before, that the agency would want to meet with him directly. Eve didn't want him to leave for that reason, when they could come to them.

Yamehl wavers in a cheerful thought, then an anxious one. For a moment, Eve could at least hear him smile as he spoke a little more excited. But, then it faded.

'Oh? If the time is drawing nearer for me to permit a team to come with you, we could wait till then. I can put a tracing spell on you, and be able to travel to you, if ever needed. I'm worried something will happen, and I can't get to you.'

Eve tries to combat her mentor's worry. She spoke truthfully, as it would ease him the most. "I'll be fine, and I've been eased into working alongside the large agency. Things will be fine and we can prepare in case something DOES change for the bad."

'If you need a way out, if anything happens that you're not comfortable with, tell me. I will do all in my power to take you out of there....'

Eve didn't really know what else he would do, but she didn't want them to have to result to it. All she knows is when he showed up, to her or to get ingredients, it would be on occasion. If she moved, he wouldn't show up soon after, but later on. Since this was a different continent, it would be highly plausible it would be longer than before, Eve can only assume.

But, Eve saw no threat, as different as things are, for the time being. Even with what new rules she follows now. "Thank you, 'Mehl. I promise, I will. I'll be fine, from what I've gathered, I'm important to keep alive. They're not wanting anything crooked, other than abruptly making me help them."

Given, it was true, and just their strict way of containing people with powers. It may be unfair for some, but many take it as a way to have a normal life again. Even if Eve's experience was now more pleasant, her mentor still saw some things not quite right with how they handle situations. Especially if Eve was involved in that thought. He tries to let out the worry with a sigh, and clearing his mind. He sounds happier again.

'Please be safe, reach me if something happens. I'm excited to see you soon.'

Eve fidgets sitting on her bed as she excitedly jumps speaking. "I am too! I miss you so much! It'll be so nice to see you again! A- a and the town! I can't wait to see everyone again. And! You get to meet Sam more, this time!" She quickly adds more to avert any sudden slips she might make.

Yamehl chuckles, the crystal picking up and flashing at his merry tone. He chimes a farewell, as they had to end at some point. Their brief talk made both of their days better than before.

'I shall be anticipating both of your arrivals. I can't wait to meet him. It's late for you, is it not? We'll hear from each other again. Talk to you soon, Eve. Goodnight to you both.'

Eve goes giddy, though her heart hurts a bit, soon not able to hear her mentor speak again for a while. She didn't want their talk to end. She wanted to talk about his day, ask what he was up to. But, it was late, and she didn't want to take up any more time if he was busy. "Take care, 'Mehl... I'll let you know when we plan to meet you. We'll hopefully have a date set soon... - And p- please take care, a- again. Goodbye, 'Mehl." She rambles on, practically forcing herself to say goodbye.

The crystal goes back, and Eve sits with her thoughts, and Sameer by her side. It was a good day, and after talking to Yamehl, it was a good night. The sounds of rain, now catching her senses. She lays onto the bed, now looking at the rainy window with the crystal gripped above her head. She slowly drifts to sleep, and Sam cardles around her carefully.

The next day arose, bringing a new day full of opportunity. Everything seemed normal, and no rebels set off alarms again, but the idea of them returning was on most people's mind at the secret unit. Without rebels, the agency had many more threats to handle as well.

Even so, Eve was working on investigating files, with her partner Grey to assist. He gets goes to grab some lists they need, and comes back hands full of case files and with warm mugs. He sits down at his own desk with a stack of files. A chai in a ceramic mug clanged lightly on Eve's desk. Grey nonchalantly placed it there. He casually sips a cup of his own. 

"Let me see what you've been working on." Grey nonchalantly glosses over the drink and scoots his chair closer to Eve's computer. He sets his tea down and leans over, propping an arm on her desk. She didn't have to move, but she did out of courtesy.

Eve gestures in a flourish, like she was showing off a car, jokingly. Grey just rolls his eyes and goes back to reviewing. He grabs his cup and grumbles. He shifts his body to use his free hand to point at the report. "It's not bad, but use less details in the top half and put it in the description boxes. That way it's easier to find what we're looking for and have less repeating details. Just don't leave anything important out in the overall report."

Eve's eyes widen, then shift between the written report, and her hands on the keyboard. "Oh, right. Got it...." She concentrates, correcting her report. She fixes where Grey had pointed out, and smiles again once it's complete. Clutching the mug Grey gave her, Eve brings it to her face to blow the steam. 

Some time passes looking at files and random activity of rare abilities. Things for the agents seemed like they were going accordingly. Nothing too out of the ordinary, and they had people and anomalies to check. But, not before a mandatory break.

After some silence that fell from concentrating at their own desk working, Grey spins his chair to Eve. "Got a green light on all your records?"

Eve turns her head, and with a giggle she presses a finger to her cheek innocently. "Yup! Everyone we have on file looks like they've been being good on our watch, hehe~!

Grey gets out of his seat with a tired huff. "Alright, let's take our break. How about lunch, and I cook?" He eyes Eve curiously, waiting for her response.

Eve tilts her head over and widens her eyes. "Oh? Sure. You can use my food and kitchen. I might have everything you'll need." She cheerfully smiles and waves a hand talking with it in vague gestures. She looked like an excited child.

Grey waves and moves out his chair. "You really don't have to go to such lengths or agree, it's fine. I just wanted to offer."

Eve tries to give Grey her reason, agreeing. "I don't mind, but is it alright if we go to mine? I still want to hangout with Sam on my break."

Grey just peers over to Eve. He then looks down coolly, crossing his arms. "Yes, that's perfectly fine. I'll stop by mine, just to get some things."

Eve chuckles softly, and warmly. "Hehe, deal."

Grey grabs his few belongings, and both empty cups of tea they had earlier that morning. He gives a small smirk, and walks off. Eve follows as he leaves. They enter the elevator with a few other workers and agents. Grey sternly adds, still conversing. "Another thing, I owe you for previous meals. We can go to the store together sometime, and I'll get it. Or, I'll pay you back another way." Not letting that go, Grey reminds Eve he's going to be even with her.

It was taking a while to pay Eve back, which only Grey minded. Then again, it's not like they hung out often, especially after the big argument. Eve really didn't mind. It has been a while since she's cooked for other people, in general, and she loves doing it.

Eve brushes it off, lightly joking with Grey. "Making the food helps make it even. Right, hehe?"

__________________________________________________

Eve goes to the apartments and Grey goes to his for a moment, and he shows up to cook at Eve's. Her and Sam hangout in the kitchen as she decides to use one burner to boil herbs and flowers in a pot of water. It wasn't anything magical, but it made the room smell nice. Assuming he wouldn't mind, that is.

Eve, surprisingly or not, knew very little about Grey, and less about what he liked. Grey had been hanging out with her, more than anyone had in a while. Yet, Eve didn't know if she'd call him a friend, they were merely 'work-partners'. Eve didn't know if many spent breaks, or hangout after hours, but they have been on occasions. Eve doesn't even know how Sameer feels about Grey coming over sometimes. He didn't really favor Grey, but maybe now tolerate, and watch him.

Eve peers over Grey's shoulder on occasion to ask if he needed any help, till he finally gave in, and let her help. She hums to herself, and to Sam, petting him as they all crowd in the kitchen together. It was peaceful, with little conversing here and there. They ate, and Grey was surprisingly, or not, a good cook too.

Half the day already passed, and all seemed calm. Coming back from their break, the agency starts working again. Looking through possible group affiliates, any threats, or abilities exposed outside of the unit.

Back at their seats, getting along, and working together, Grey asks Eve something. "So, would you tell me more about what magic is?" He asked bluntly, tapping his finger to his desk, like it's been on his mind for a while.

"Hm... you'd have to be more specific. What my mentor would probably say to generalize, it's connecting to the currents of power with your own. Or... something like that."

Eve shrugged for a moment, because that was at least how Yamehl described it the first few times. It was the simplest thing to say about magic. It was definitely a feeling-based understanding, however. Much more than what words could describe.

Grey stayed hushed. He barely looked at Eve as he kept looking down to process the vagueness. With the little he's seen and done, he couldn't understand it in the slightest. How Eve could understand this was ballialing, and impressive she keeps such an odd lifestyle. Eve could even see how lost he was getting.

So, Eve tried to explain more. "How magic is different from the special abilities, one uses spells and casting to do more, we've established that part. Meaning, soon, some people are about to 'understand' how creating other abilities works. It's more to just think but also feel. Believing makes us stronger too. It was a lifestyle, many people lived that way once. They understood, long ago, when powers were as strong as magician's belief systems on earth."

Grey contemplated the idea once more. But, no matter how hard he tried, Grey couldn't quite grasp magic. "... Okay, I did want to know a bit more of the meaning. Also, how the hell have you not remembered telling me about magic in interstellar-space, and seeing things I can't see. Like, whatever the freaky aura and connections were...."

"Right, I remember. Magic isn't just on earth. Powers are everywhere in the universe, and they are everywhere, in different forms. It's a universal thing, that's also why it's otherworldly. Then, there's the belief of the afterlife..." Eve moves her hand up and holds her palm out. She made a small figure of glimmer and constellations, floating in Eve's hands.

She continues talking as she spins and plays with her starry configuration, till it looks like a milky-way. "Our minds and bodies will become part of ethereal beings that are given powers by the stars far off past our galaxy, and, or be different forms of matter that create the space itself elsewhere. We'll be able to feel, see, and be a part of something way more than earth itself. There's also a story of long ago, people's souls helped fill the sky with stars, whether really true, or not. Our souls are a very interesting thing we, as magicians, can see. Which might prove a question humankind has had. Magic opens doors, and leaves many new questions unanswered. We have only some different beliefs and questions than others, heh."

The agency was definitely much different than working with her mentor. The universe is far more than infinite, it would be hard to see overall if souls became stars. Even within other realms. Grey looks down, processing it all. Eve flowed through that explanation, but it was too quick for him, however. He looks at her with his brows scrunched and head tilted in questioning.

Grey takes a moment to process and clear this throat. "That's... Ahem, okay. I understand this is quite a lifestyle. It would also be a life-changer for people to learn. This is going to take a while to digest. Feeling things, seeing things, believing things... It's really compelling to think it's just insanity." He intentionally scowls at Eve as he thinks.

Eve giggles, though she couldn't argue. Although she understands, anyone else would find it insane. "Hehe, it is. I know my mentor showed me a lot of visuals to help understand. I can't do all that he can do yet, but we can try to simplify an understanding. Maybe with time, he might help teach more people too, just 'maybe'. It also helps going in with an open mind, humans like to find answers, after all, but you can't go in with a lot of preexisting notions. You might not ever learn anything."

Grey might not know exactly what Eve meant then, but she would soon enough. Answers only gave him more questions, which would create a cycle. Curiosity was the first step for a magician. It will make or break Grey's next steps in following Eve's understanding.

_______________________________________________

The weekend went well and filled with Eve answering many questions Grey would ask. He stopped by Eve's more often to hear more about spells and magic. She even showed off a few simple spells, also trying to practice teaching. Grey at least got to learn a lot about space, just from hearing and seeing Eve's power.

The two agents went to start the next work week off at the lab for another lesson. Grey wasn't the happiest when Dr. Green was buzzing around him, eyeing him like some subject. She kept asking about what he does on the field, or if he or Eve's gotten into anything dangerous recently. It was a bit of a distraction from the task at hand, however.

Eve claps to get everyone's attention. Everyone from the lab all sit or stand behind a long work-island, now watching her silently. "Alright everyone, time for a lesson in spells! My partner, Agent Grey, will be with us, as well. Let's see how we do with a wind spell!" She points out Grey and he nonchalantly waved. They've all seen each other before, but Grey's presence in the lab was a surprise to them.

Eve pulls out materials and a book from her bag, showing everyone what she's brought. "So! There's a few different wind spells. Some can be done if you have the mental practices to bend the elements around you. We'll do an easy spell using a few different materials, physical and non. We'll take some northern-alderwood, a yellow precious sun-stone, leaves of various tree entities, and then cloud mist to dampen the wood and leaves. Everything but clouds are here, of course, heh. Normally there's bottles of cloud mist in a shop where I practiced, or can be stored with some magic for another day. But, since I don't have any cloud mist, we can go outside, or I can make my own. Either will work for this experiment."

Dr. Green took a wide glance at everything, it wasn't anything out of the ordinary-looking. Most of it was just plants and stones.

Morax pops up with her usual screams with questions. "Wait! How are we going to make clouds here? We don't know how to do all the steps yet!" She waves her fist at Eve and pouts.

Eve gives a confident sigh and smiles. "It's okay! It's because none of you can use the mental spells yet. They are the foundation of magic, beyond just performing just your special ability. So, if you can't do those now, it will take time for you to do ANY spells. I'm still teaching you all that, but I also wanted to move forward with a fun practice lesson today~! Even if we went outside, I would have to take some parts of the sky and bring them down myself, because I can cast many spells with my years of experience. Right now, we can only work with what I have, and know."

Morax just crossed their arms and pouts more. "Hmph!... When can we do stuff like that?"

Eve chuckles with her fist masking her smiling a bit. "If you work hard, study the translated text enough, then in a few years you'll be as powerful as me!"

Eve's characteristic enthusiasm was radiant and maybe too optimistic. It was almost draining to some, mainly Grey and the confused Morax. "Eeeh... so long and daunting. How the heck did you do any of this?" Morax argues slightly with her tired and annoyed tone.

Grey whips his head to Morax and glares down at her. "Pay attention to Maestro. You can't learn anything, if you don't focus." He orders, crossing his arms as he watches the group. He keeps his eyes on them and Eve, standing by the far edge of the island.

"Eep-!! Y- yessir..." Morax hunches down and hides a bit so only the top of her head could still peak out. Just enough to feel like she was hiding from Grey's mean glare. He scared her, and many, often.

Eve brings a hand to her face so she wouldn't outwardly laugh, seeing Grey act scary to others. Though, he didn't have the same effect on Eve. "Hehe, thank you, Grey. Don't be too intimidated by it. It takes time, like all things. You can pick it up easily, or it might take some practice. I had a mentor that was given the knowledge and powers of his predecessors. I'm a patient person and thought all of it was pretty fun! Now, let's hurry to the fun part then, casting the spell!"

Eve places all the materials, packed materials on top of each other. She places a bowl of water next to it and hovers her hands over it a bit. She makes a circle with the back of her hands and white fluff appears. Eve kept on fluffing the air till a mist was pushed out into the area around her, with visible glimmers of dew forming on the counter and lab-ware. A golden glimmer sparkled as she condenses the small less translucent cloud onto the stone and plants, making them immediately damp and glistening. She let go of her phantom-like grip and the cloud dissipated like a gas emitting into the room. It vanished completely off the counter space.

Eve continues to explain, patting everything together and then holding her hands out a foot away to create space. "Earth is our foundation, water gives us life, nature is our distant cousins that share likeness in the powers provided, together we symbolize harmony. And, with the magician's hand to guide them, all in unison...."

Eve lifts a hand up, letting her fingertips be dragged heavily up into the air, till it was curved into a fist with a roll of her hand. The leaves suddenly jumped, jostling on the table, till the sticks under it began to shake. Leaves scattered to Eve's feet, then a whirlwind of current and leaves swirled around Eve. A wind appeared at a gentle, yet powerful blow.

Eve's hair barely moved, compared to the others who were not protected in Eve's bubbles like she was. Their coats and jackets flowed, as if they were outside on a slightly breezy day. The glassware was being slightly pushed back till they were picked up by Grey and the scientists. Leaves were everywhere, the whirling winds now dancing around the whole room, and creating a gust into the hallway to other's labs. Onlookers from outside started watching Eve, who just spun around in a circle and swept her arms out in a flourish with the current she was guiding.

Eve waves a finger in pointing out a section from the book on wind spells. There was the recipe, instructions, and the effects. Luckily, it was listed as an easy, and safe spell in the book to perform. "The winds have blessed us as a guide to the earth's whispers. It is the air that we can't live without. Many different wind spells help find direction, give purpose, another part to giving life and breath. We need the air to live, just as we need a purpose. The earth's purpose is the same...."

Molaris lifts his hand and asks, waiting for the right moment when Eve is done with her speech. "Okay, can we ask questions now? How DID you do the magic part?"

It was an odd question, that only an odd answer could explain. Eve tried her best to educate them nonetheless. "Hehe, by feeling. And, believing I think helps too. It's second nature to me, you just have to imagine what the wind looks and feels like at that very moment. The materials help give power, they also sort of... make you feel something, and the best way is to fulfill the actions. You'll hear a call almost, then you feel the power within yourself try to respond."

Morax lays her head on the desk and flings her arms out in front of her. "Still so confusing~...."

Molaris joins, not as dramatic as Morax was. He still looked uncertain, but gave a small chuckle. "Heh, I sadly don't follow much either."

Eve jumps up, she knows one way to help explain it, and it was to just do it. Questions would only go so far to actually practicing. "We can try this spell together! You can step up and take my hand. You must make a connection with me, and you'll be able to feel it too!"

Morax finally goes silent, remembering the last time she volunteered. The room, even the hallway, was quiet. It seems everyone was hesitant to try. Green was just smiling happily, also silent, for once. So, Eve will have to call for a participant.

Eve moves her eyes to each one, then stops at her partner. "Agent Grey? Would you like to try first, for everyone?"

Eve watches Grey give a sigh. "Alright..." Grey steps up and nonchalantly places a hand in Eve's, unfazed by her crazy antics like the rest. "Now what?"

With their hands just lightly touching on another, their powers were able to connect. Eve was able to pull his energy, he just needed to match hers. She instructed him, in a way her mentor would. "Think of a beautiful breeze on your face, the wind blowing your hair slightly, the crisp smell of something the wind is carrying...."

Grey exhales tiredly to show he's following. "Okay..." Grey starts to close his eyes to get a better visual.

"Got it?" Eve lifts their hands higher, and waves with her other arm as the leaves shake again. It was working so far.

"Yes, now what?" Grey turns his head to Eve as he keeps his eyes closed.

"Keep imagining with your senses, now... how does it feel?" It was moment after asking, she felt something around her shift. It wasn't physical, but a sudden disturbance.

Grey suddenly shivers a bit in response. "C... Cold... and lo- ?!" The wind picked up again, much more powerful. Eve feels Grey's hand suddenly tighten around hers, in fear of being ripped apart from her.

A large, chilling gust blasted everyone partly back from them. Eve and Grey both take a free hand to their face to see better, keeping clasped hands still together. The agents were just getting a small bit of the wind, yet it was blowing hard around the room that they couldn't escape the whirlwind.

"WHAT THE HECK MAN?! THAT'S TOO MUCH!!" Morax is the only one able to scream loud enough for them to hear, as the wind grew louder. Eve snatches Grey's other hand, taking both to clasp together in a ball tightly. Grey snaps his attention at her. The wind was not in Eve's control, but Grey's. He was unable to stop the spell, concerned about the situation.

Eve yells and tugs on Grey's hands. "Contain it a bit more!" Eve brings their hands down and the violent wind disappears abruptly.

Everything felt like time had suddenly stopped. Some things take their final fall onto the ground, after being pushed and pulled all about. Scientists and the people outside of the room look around, the Agents do the same. Starting to observe the aftermath. Papers were scattered everywhere from who-knows-where, tools and materials were knocked around, it looked like a small tornado had come through.

Eve let go of both Grey's hands to brush stands of her hair that had become disheveled. She then waved her hands nervously, smiling awkwardly. "Are we all okay?... So sorry everyone for the scare. I guess these need to be practiced... in a better, controlled environment."

Morax pops her head up from behind a counter. She gasps for air dramatically and falls into the hard surface. "Ya think?! Phew... I thought you were going to destroy the lab!"

"You definitely destroyed some of the glassware that blew to the ground." Molaris pointed out, with very little assurance.

Grey holds his hands back, not wanting to cause anymore damage. He didn't want to worsen it by touching a single thing even. "I- I'm so sorry...."

Eve didn't see Grey to blame. It was a rough trial of their experiment. They did manage to do the wind spell, but the results were expected. "It's okay, Grey. I think you went too powerful in thought. Next time, really try to imagine more of a gentler breeze."

Grey stared at Eve, listening intensely, and wondering what went wrong. "Right... I wasn't thinking quite clearly...." He places a hand to his face and rubs his brows tiredly.

Eve tries to reassure her partner. "It's okay. Practice makes perfect, this was a good lesson to learn too. You can't be too weak, OR too powerful for some spells. There's a balance. It takes mental balance as well."

Grey heavily sighs. "... Ah. Then, I will try to have more of a stricter mindset when thinking...."

Eve lowers her voice to be more stern, and she shakes her head. "That doesn't mean strict, Grey. It means having a healthy balance. Be strict, but also lax. Be vulnerable even, and know not every spell will work perfectly at first."

Green slaps the back on one of Grey's shoulders. They loudly jolt Grey. "Grey!! That was so scary, but wonderful! How did you feel?!"

Grey rolls his eyes and sighs into his cupped hand. "Like crap, Green. I just screwed the whole spell up. I also feel much more freezing than I ought to be right now...." He rubs his arm lightly, trying to see the temperature difference.

Eve looks at him with wide, concerned eyes. She places herself between Dr. Green and Agent Grey, tapping both of their shoulders as she gives a tight grin at them. "Oh! Let's take a break and get you warmed up...." Eve turns fully to Grey. Her hands glow as she quickly rubs them together, and then hovers them over him. Her hands were radiant as a heater directly ghosting over him.

Grey could feel himself suddenly burning up from the dramatic change in temperature. He shivers the residual chill off of him. Grey feels weird out, but better. Now better, he wants Eve to stop her weird magic trick. "It's fine now, thanks. I probably won't volunteer as your assistant for a while, however." He crosses his arms, and spaces more distance between Eve and himself.

Dr. Green hummed, chiming in. "Hm... I guess no one, besides Maestro, can do a spell properly. We'll have to practice more of the basics. And maybe... get a testing facility for practices in the future. Oh! We'll bring notes and whatever needed for the experiment! Maybe bring our lunches, that sounds nice!" Green jumps between Molaris and Viper, draping her arms around their shoulders, and going off in planning.

Grey mutters to Eve as he leans over with a scowl. "That was a lot different than feeling a tree..." He looks at her deadpanned, serious about his small confusion. It was a lot harder than Eve was putting it, she may just have higher knowledge now, that she can't instantly simplify everything for someone who's not used to the feeling.

Eve just shrugged her shoulders and arms. "Well, were you just as concentrated on the tree in the park, than you were in here today?"

Grey scowled, then diffused his eyes that were burning at Eve for a moment. Knowing, she was right. "No. Sigh... Okay, I get it. You may think it's simple, hence why you were so easy to grasp this. Not everyone is at the same pace, or understanding as you...."

It may have not been that offensive, but Eve was always frustrated, being one of the rare people with an overly-open mind. Yet, that did get her places, with people all coming together from. It's not her fault she can understand both logically with her head, and sympathetically with her big heart. The best thing for magic was the gift she was naturally given. Her powers did wonders, but her mind and openness took her places.

Eve couldn't help but cross her arms, and pout at Grey. "-?!... Well... that's why I was originally just showing it in healthy, small ways. You have to do things slowly and gently for others to understand. Maybe you'll just have to observe more, before trying it again."

As Eve gathers all her belongings back up, mostly from the floor, she calls off the exercise the rest of the hour, to clean and reflect a bit on what happened. Spent a lot of the time of Eve and Green conversing about spells. The agents finally make their way out into the science hall.

They continue their workday at their desks again. The wind incident, now behind them, at least for Eve. Both agents were at least able to look at files and an investigation underway. A set of brisk and almost silent footsteps started making their way closer to Eve. But, it was noticed a bit too late.

A head suddenly pops up from behind Eve, startling her, and even Grey. All Eve got a glimpse of was a set of eyelids in front of her closely as they spoke. "Hi there! Are you Agent Maestro?"

The tall man never opened his eyes to see her but he kept inching closer. Eve leans back a bit in her seat, creating space. "Y- yes? Can I help you?"

The man straightens himself and smiles. He wore a casual grey suit, and naturally fluffy black hair. "I'm actually an assistant in operations, under the board leaders, and Director. I've seen you just from my desk in passing, but haven't introduced myself. I'm Echo! I have some papers for you, but wanted to take them to you myself! I wanted to meet the new hot topic around here!"

Eve slowly grabs the files he had brought. She meekly looks at them and then back up. "Oh... Thank you for these."

Grey groans sternly at the figure. "Echo... I get you're excited to meet her... but don't just get so close to someone's face like that!!" He then snapped, which definitely got the message across.

Echo raises his eyebrows in surprise. "Sorry, sorry! I just wanted to get a good 'look' at her. I never get a chance to recognize her face, because she's a quick blur. I have to get this close to memorize it quickly before it's gone again!" He then proceeds to get closer to Eve as he oddly analyzes her as if she was about to run off. Which she might want to. She eyes between him and her partner, wondering if this was an ordinary thing.

The assistant straightens himself, giving Eve space. He points to himself with his hand, and answers the question on Eve's mind. "My ability is hyper sense, but I can't actually use sight. My eyes are weird. Wanna see?" He asks, almost in anticipation. Grey jolts up and looks between the two. Echo peers over at him, bringing a finger up to his lips, and grinning with a sly intention.

Eve just smiles brightly, unbothered. "Sure, I'm curious." Her acceptance was predictable, but peculiar. Eve had no sense of unease by things. Only new recruits might have got spooked by things at the unit, even though she's fairly new herself.

Echo slowly lifts one eyelid, then heavily parts both halfway open to reveal complete white membranes underneath. No pupil or anything besides white. He bats his eyes then opens them widely, facing towards Eve. "Nothing's there, right? Isn't that pretty freaky?" He giggles, closing his eyes again, grinning widely.

"Oh! That's so cool! And, still found me perfectly fine, hehe!" Eve giggles and smiles warmly back.

Echo points out to Eve, and points to her explaining. He emphasizes her habits just being attentive to her work. "Mhm! I was able to hear your humming, and feel the vibrations of a breathing, moving body in your seat, just from entering the room. I can feel everything, without needing to see it."

Eve looks up and down from Echo, to the files in her hand. She holds the file close to her chest as she idles to one side of her chair, happily giggling and beaming. "Amazing! Thanks again for delivering these to me. I appreciate you coming all the way here."

Echo smiles back and jumps up excitedly. "Of course! It was a pleasure to actually get to meet you, the new, mysterious agent in our unit's division! Stop by my desk a few floors down, and I'll be happy to help if you have any questions. Or, just to chat, heh." He adds at the end, more excited about just talking to Eve.

Agent Grey rolls his eyes. "Okay, ya done with the sappy introductions now? We still have work to do...."

Echo plops his hands on the desk and lifts himself up. "Hehe, right! Pleasure to meet you! Take care, you two!" Echo trots off and waves to the two agents. They both wave back, but Eve's was energetic and cheerful, where Grey's was brief and with an annoyed look on his face.

"Now, let me see this..." Grey takes the files and paper from out of Eve's hands. He starts reading it over, muttering. "This is for the both of us, and really, I have to look over this first. So why's he got to use it as an excuse to give something to you? Sigh...." If Echo was still in the room, he probably heard that and laughed to himself. It still was true, however.

Grey takes a moment to look at the files before placing them on Eve desk, and showing them. He points at their objective and findings. "Here's the mission... We're finding someone responsible for an unknown power usage. Someone like you once. So, maybe you'll be a good help for this, in case."

"What?" Eve's eyes lit up for a moment. "We- we're hunting down an innocent person?..." Eve looks down blankly in thought. She shivered slightly and a shadow from her bangs covered the worry in her eyes. Eve flashed the memories when 'an agent' contacted her. It was as if she didn't realize she was in Grey's position too now. Doing the same things he did.

Of course, she's seen so many files, not everyone seemed relatively bad. Most were part of listing all the ones outside of the agency. She now has to monitor, or take innocent lives into the agency. Not just the bad ones, even though those were monitored by prison sentences like any other crime. And, many kept there were quite bad.

Grey holds out the file of a person in question, then places it gently on Eve's desk. "Alright, now I know you're a bit upset by this, but we're not even certain they're innocent, or if they might be part of the rebels, or some-other. We just want to know what happened. We have our main suspect to question, and we are certain. We have to be before interrogating anyone, for our cover. Ice appeared this morning, and it's not even winter. But, just one spot was frozen over. Our suspect is just a 17 year-old. So, we won't do any harm, but they still need to be interrogated."

Eve narrows her eyes scanning the papers attached. She suddenly looks wide in shock confirming what Grey described. She retorts dramatically. "They're not even an adult yet! Why are we interrogating someone who probably has a family?! They would know their child was abducted!!"

Grey knows they'll have to go out and question the suspect, no matter the condition. He grumbles as he folds the cases files closed. "If you remember, using powers around civilians is an issue... You'll just have to trust us that our reasons are good. Just follow along and... you can speak up whenever something's not right. However, not everything can be helped or fixed."

Eve waves a finger, and gives her partner a stern warning. "... Fine, but don't you DARE go near them if they're scared!"

Eve snatches the files in Grey's hands a little forcefully. She opens it up fully and turns it to Grey, pointing aggressively. "... This says they have live parents, and the oldest of two. They have a family, friends, their lives, don't take that away from them!"

Grey creaks his chair, leaning closer to Eve. He scowls down at her as he plucks the file away, and neatly closes it again. "Okay. Relax, Maestro... We get stuff like this quite often. Give me a second without any outburst, so I can explain... If their family and friends don't know of their power, we give an option to take courses we provide to eventually plot them joining the force by choice to their peers, or just the general for help handling their powers. Or, we rarely might make a full transfer immediately. Not many occasions have the option to not join, or be monitored, in some way. Anyone that meets an agent has to join, or be protected in time...."

Eve takes a moment to process everything, also how it fits with her own file. Her eyelids draw heavy, in a cold disturbance. She too was bound by a devilish contact by an agent she met. The very one she's working with. It didn't help that Grey made it sound like a curse, especially since she's aware of most curses and charms. They've now been stuck together, like a curse.

Grey watches as Eve stays silently in thought. He takes a breath and continues showing more calm composure so Eve feels the same. "... As our job is as high operatives, we handle powers from being discovered, mythical creatures from being extinct, advanced knowledge getting into the wrong hands, and protecting our people. We have a very difficult, but important job. It's difficult, because not everyone has the same morals either. With, or without powers."

It didn't do much for comforting, but it was stating the facts to Eve. She doesn't look in his eyes, only looking down, and quietly speaking. "Grey? Just promise me one thing...."

Agent Grey cocks his head at Eve in subtle surprise. "H- hm?"

Eve slowly looks up at Grey, unintentionally pouring worry from her doe-like eyes at him. "Please tell me everything, don't hide anything. I want to know the honesty here, so I can truly help."

Grey shook his head in surprise. He darted his eyes downwards, away from Eve. "Of course, Maestro. I won't hide anything from you anymore. You deserve to hear everything, you are... tasked to help out a lot, you also need to catch up to our society too. It won't be as great of a life as your desert home probably, but I hope you'll see our ways as well." He spoke the last part more somber than he'd normally sound. Eve didn't know what to think of it.

They had to continue with the task at hand, and not something for down the road. At least she had time to think, but she was occupied with the current mission. They set off, but Eve was a bit more nervous than other missions. They were to patrol around and question the suspect, simple. Eve couldn't side with how she was feeling about it.

________________________________________________

In midtown, people make their way to their destinations on the sidewalk. Few passed through the day-lite alleys. Though, it seemed some were weary to walk in some alleys, at any point of day, one unlucky high schooler was taking a usual route home right through one.

Heels tap from a set of boots behind the reported suspect. As they keep walking, they peer behind, seeing no one. They sigh relieved as they turn around. Eve halts then suddenly in their tracks as she's now right in front of them in the middle of the alley. The young suspect jumps startled by her sudden appearance.

Before the suspect could regain themselves, she excitedly jumps up, and greets them with a smile. "Oh, it's you! Hi there, I need a word with you. I hope you'll understand what I have to say." Eve extended her hand.

The innocent suspect almost ignored the greeting as they were too startled. "Huh? What do you want, lady? I- I think you've got me mixed up with someone...." They try to walk past, but Eve quickly turns herself, and leans over curiously. She obstructed their path again slightly.

Eve's still confident she doesn't have the wrong person. It was the same person she saw on file, and lived in the area they were in. "Maybe? Are you Alex? Really, I'm just here to talk. I'm glad I caught up to you before my partner found you first." She confessed.

Everything only confused the suspect more. They nervously try to process and speak through their thought process. The suspect, Alex, trembles. "Your- what? L- look, I d- don't know what you're even talking about."

As they try to pass Eve, again, a large hand is placed on their shoulder, and they stop in their tracks. "Sorry, we know we got the right person. We NEED to talk to you." Grey talks in a monotone voice, but emphasizes the word 'need'. The adolescent turned their head sharply to Grey. His eyes bored on the suspect, with one eye festering a menacing purplish glow on them.

Eve takes Agent Grey's hand off the suspect's shoulder. She scoffed, "Agent, please don't be so rough with an innocent person." Eve places her fists resting on her hips and slightly glares at Grey. As if leaning over to act intimidating, but has to look up at him.

Grey leans over to Eve, speaking in a hush tone. "Sorry, I needed to see if they were lying to you. You need to be less weird when confronting people, Maestro...."

Eve turns to Grey, whisper-yelling a bit to him. "Same goes for you too, do you always have to scare even the innocent suspects?"

Grey shrugs at Eve. He couldn't deny that he did it for safe measures. Yet, as they were talking amongst themselves, the suspect decided to make a break for it, and run as the partners were distracted.

The young ability user ran. Eve whipped her head to them and ran after them. She passed Grey before he did or said anything, and ushered. "-?! Shoot, I got this!- One second please! We just want to talk!" She yells out to the innocent suspect. She didn't want to have to chase them, but she knew she'd be the fastest to.

Eve proceeds to glow and then jump. She leaped into the air, flying over the young suspect, and landing right in their path.

The suspect fell to the ground trying to stop before getting close to any of the agents. The cowered, looking up at Eve and pleading. "P- please! Please don't hurt me!"

Eve noticed as they touched the ground, the suspect's hand suddenly was frosting over, along with the ground below.

Eve waves her hands in protest as fast as she possibly could. Her panic was a bit high, and unintended their powers showing out of reflex. She tries to calm them. "What? We're not going to hurt you! We're special agents, we just need a moment of your time. You don't have to fear. We want to talk to make sure everything is okay." She then takes and holds out her badge.

Eve then places a hand on her heart and bows like a prince. She gives a dramatic introduction, which makes Grey's eyes roll. "I'm Agent Maestro, we are part of a special organization that helps with the special powers some people have. Surely, you understand what powers are, right?"

"Wait-... There's more?!" They point between Eve and then whips and points to Grey. Realizing, there's possibly more than just those two to be pointed out as well. Their assumption was correct.

Eve nods her head confirming. She smiles at the high schooler sympathetically. "Mhm! We both have powers. I'm still new to it, but there's a society for people like us. We work, or live closed off from being hurt or hurting others. Not like everyone is evil, or good, but the unknown is feared by many." Although Eve did exactly agree with how the agency dealt with it, she understood why they kept secrets.

Grey coolly crosses his arms, nodding as he adds. "Yes, we teach many and build lives around our kind. We can still go out and be with our loved ones, but cannot disclose any information about our powers."

Eve cocks her head innocently, showing threat. She clasps her hands together and keeps them idled. "Could we ask to come with us for a few questions? Again, I'm new to this too but sadly, there's rules on using powers. A little sucky to hear, right? But, it'll be fine, and for your protection."

The said 'suspect' breaks into a nervous meltdown. "Di-... I'M SORRY!" They look at the two agents and tremble out of guilt now. They know of the ice that was accidentally left.

Grey puts a hand on their shoulders again. "ShhhhSHH!! It'll be alright, I also know your innocent." He looks away muttering, "Surprisingly, you're not as loud in-thought as Maestro is...."

Eve eyes the ends of the alleyway, and turns her attention back to the two. "Um... Please, we just want to talk to make sure you and others will be safe. You're not in trouble but you have to come with us so we can talk more freely. Can't do that in broad daylight, heh."

The suspect jolts in the realization. He nodded meekly. "Oh- okay...."

_______________________________________________________

They all make it to the S.O.U. The agents take the suspect to a brighter lit interrogation room. their were different floors for some suspects, more dangerous ones were kept underground in case of escaping. The ones Grey and Eve were going to were close to their office floor, so it was as bright as their floor high up.

They gather in a secure room, Grey sits in front of the young ability user. Eve stands right beside Grey, watching over him at the scared suspect. She watches Grey go through his normal questions, running through their background, and confirming everything they already had on the individual.

Grey observes the suspect's file, name, age, ability, and their records of the incident before they met. Everything seemed clear. Family knew nothing, whereabouts clear, no links to meeting any rebels. Their reaction back in the alley also confirmed, along with Grey's interrogating, and Eve's help for calming the suspect. Before Grey could clear the suspect, and have them go, he finishes with a few questions felt they were for the future.

Agent Grey holds out a current file of the suspect that they were filling out a report of the incident. His cold, grey eyes stare down at the paper, till they peer up at the suspect. The young high schooler slightly jumps out of his seat as Grey looks at them. "Okay... Everything's in order. Just a few more questions to make sure." Grey proceeds, waiting for a moment for confirmation, but going along no matter what they responded with.

The suspect, Alex, nods. They were starting to feel drained from being so stressed the whole time talking the the gloomy, intimidating agent.

Grey, monotone, gave Alex two options. "Would you like to be on our list to be placed in a community for ability-users? Or, be in contact with an agent on occasions for updates?"

The suspect thinks to them for a long while. The silence, and keeping Grey waiting, making them more nervous. They just settle on something and finally speak. "... Can I please be contacted? I don't... I don't know yet...."

Grey gives a short nod. He jots details down, then close his file. "That's fine. If you like to change at any time you can, even if you ever wanted to work with users. You have some options down the road."

Alex doesn't look at Grey, but to the table. "Oh- Okay... Th- thanks...." They, of course, don't feel assured.

Grey adds, unintentionally not helping the situation, but keep overloading them. "You'll still have to learn a bit about our society, and rules. You'll be given a test in over a year's time. You can take as much time as you need till then."

As Grey finishes speaking, Eve looks between them, and adds with a warm smile. "It won't be so scary... We're here to help! Surely, there's people you care about that don't know. It's hard barring your troubles on your own. So, you can talk to us about powers, or questions about them, anytime!" Eve saves a bit of hope in the young suspect. It helped at least a little in reassurance.

The suspect is able to meet Eve's eye. "Thank you... Things feel hard as is, randomly freezing things has been... the most unbearable thing that's happened..." They speak honestly, since they've already been questioned about it.

Many there might have had a similar situation at first, before the agency. Eve also knows how scary, and alienated one might feel. "D- do you want to talk about how you felt, other than just what happened? This is a safe place. You're not in trouble, but we want to help make it more bearable then." Eve couldn't help but be 'Starlight', and not 'Maestro'. caring, and wanting to stop everything to help, and hear their story.

They talk for some time. At first it started with the suspect, Alex's coming of powers, then Eve even shared her with them. There was a similarity in their strong emotions that awakened something in them. Strong emotions were the only way nowadays for powers to sporadically happen. It was very common with fear, and anger.

Their conversation transitioned to much deeper talks. Eve was naturally being very supportive. With her previous career, and her also knowing of powers existing. Not only that, she was going to be the one that the suspect met with. There, they can learn more about powers, rules, and how they've been doing in general.

Eve swings the door out and walks out with the suspect. "Hehe~! You're cool, Alex. I'll send you some English cover artists I like! I saw one do a nice rock cover from a song a few months back."

Eve giggles with her phone out. She gleefully beamed after talking some time for small-chat. Mostly to finally calm the suspect down, Eve started sharing about her personal life. They both exchanged some stories. Family woes, music, then getting comfortable enough to talk about how they felt when they discovered their powers.

They've already exchanged numbers, since Eve will be in touch, till they're out of high school. "We'll meet up every now and again, about your abilities. Thanks for staying strong and keeping it hidden for so long. I remembered my freak accidents, it scared me too. Try your best to stay calm, it will be alright. Let us know if you ever have your powers randomly happen again, and if anyone saw."

Eve, and maybe even Grey, remembers her experience when she was first staying with Yamehl. Grey only could see parts of memories, but she remembered exactly what happened when her mentor saw her glow for the first time. The worry, the fear of being casted out, and having to run away and hide.

Grey didn't know the first time she experienced her glowing. But, she only mentioned it to the suspect that it happened after losing her father. He never pushed the question, but he could see her and the suspect were no different. Learning you have powers is a terrifying thing to many at first. Getting emotional, then accidentally activating your powers. Eve sympathizes with the suspect that it was all just an accident.

The suspect nods. Their mouth twitches nervously as they try to speak, and not tear up. "I will, Miss Maestro. S- sorry again, I really didn't mean to freeze the ground. I wasn't trying to, on purpose. I got a little emotional after a call from my dad...."

Grey places his hand on the suspect's shoulder, and unexpectedly scares them. "It's alright there, please try to stay clear of anyone if it suddenly happens. If it happens again, even if no one saw, call us."

Alex doesn't look Grey in the eyes but looks up towards him stuttering nervously. "R- right mister...."

Eve walks around Grey, and jumps in front of the suspect and Grey. She gives her partner a disapproving glare. "Can you please stop interrogating them? Sorry, he's good at telling if you're lying, don't mind him. I'm sure he's just making sure you're not going to cause him trouble, heh. I know you just had a power surge overtake you, it happens. We've probably both been there, I know I have." Eve elbows Agent Grey, and he rolls his eyes.

"R- right, sorry...." Alex just nervously replied, just to show they understood.

Eve nods and waves a hand to follow. It was time to get going before anyone suspected their absence. "Okay~! Let's take you back home safely! Let's go~!"

The three walk on to the direction Eve was taking them. Grey stays behind the suspect so he can see the suspect and his partner. Alex watches as they pass a small part of the S.O.U. It was all very new, but better then they could even imagine it to go. They try to break the small pause in silence. "Thank you, and I'm sorry again for causing trouble... I'll try to not have it happen again."

Whether another accident were to happen again, or not, Eve understood. She didn't mind the suspect's difficulty controlling their newfound powers. Eve was once in that same boat too. "Don't worry so much now. We'll help you make sure you still live your normal life, with handling your powers. We're going to get our stuff. We'll be right back, then take you home."

Alex nods shyly and the agents turn to walk to the elevators. Eve ushers Alex to get in once the doors opened. They wait at the elevators as Eve and Grey grab their belongings. It was a brief walk to their desks while still able to be seen by Alex.

Grey turns his head to Eve as she's putting things in her bag. "Maestro?"

Eve stops what she's doing and turns. Grey seemingly averted her eye-contact. "Hm?"

Grey continues to turn off his computer and grab his keys. He calmingly spoke while readying himself. "Good work. Of course, you have a way with younger people."

Eve idles a finger that then sends a small bit of shimmers as she points outward. She giggles innocently and winks. "Hehe~, having a child-like wonder helps!"

Grey chuckles deeply under his breath. "Heh, more like being a child...."

Although it was making fun of, Eve didn't seem bothered by the remark. "I can be a child, or be a cool adult. I can manage a lot, and be responsible when I want to." She then giggled at her joking remark.

Grey acted surprised in a bit of a mocking tone. "Really? I have yet to see you act like an adult, heh."

Eve puts her hands on her hips and confidently scowls at Grey. "I'm just not as cold, I'm more passionate about things. Being an adult is just a developmental stage and lifestyle. I'm surprisingly responsible, as 'childish' as I am...."

Grey gave a monotoned remark. "I was merely joking with you." Although, his voice lacked any humor.

Eve gives a short snicker and crosses her arms. "Well, I doubt that was fully intended as a joke."

Grey looks away and raises a small smirk. "Heh, perhaps..."

Eve was turned to Grey, but she looks over to Alex waiting by the elevators. Eve kept looking between the two. "Well, I've got a question for you."

Grey turns his head to his partner curiously. "What's that?"

Eve knows Grey would understand, and at least have a guess for her. "Could I have been monitored, rather than joining?" Like Alex, Eve would have wanted to live her own life again. It's not easy to give up everything, even if she didn't have a family, or at first, friends that knew or could understand.

Grey answered as he contemplated. He spoke honestly, only from what he knew. "Well... Depends on if you were able to promise not to show powers to others, or online anymore. It would be a lie to say it's a greedy thought, but the director wanted you to stay with us hopefully...."

Eve looked at Grey surprised almost. Yet, it had to have been the director's doing for her to even be her, and in her position. She was trying to fully understand what for other than what she was told. All it seemed like it was for information, she thought.

Grey got serious, more heavy in thought and tiredly adding. "Director Oracle had read your file, he evaluated you, and already knew it would have gone two ways. You helped us, or... you would have run away already...."

Eve tiredly chuckles, but smiles warmly. But, it faded as she turned a bit dull. "Heh, he knows too well. I've really wavered between both options, but I know I must choose. Truthfully, I wanted to take some time. I wanted to see how much I'll miss the desert after some time...."

Grey sets his hands tiredly on his hips. He raises a brow to Eve. "You can take trips, like any job on your vacation time. Maybe you can use a jet, however far it can take you to the town. Don't think you can't go, just for work purposes now... But, I still understand... I hope you help us, but we'll keep you on our list if you decide to go. You know the catch." He then shrugged, but his voice at the end was somber, and he averted his gaze.

Grey walks on towards the elevators to send the suspect home, and Eve then follows right behind. She was a bit disappointed in the fact that she'll never be truly free. Maybe the town of Uridian she might, only there. Also kept from the harm of the outside world. At least there was one thing that Eve kept hope on. It was peace.

Peace was in the town, peace was kept by her, and the people she made smile. The agency was waiting to be at peace, and understand exactly what they were. And, to hopefully understand some other anomalies that were left a mystery to them.

A few, quiet days pass. Eve had been uncharacteristically calm the whole time. She had been more cautious, but more preparing for what to come. Everything seemed like it was quiet, till one morning an emergency signal was set off from the base.

As the day began, speakers from the hall started to ring. People start to make way to the elevators and stairwells. Eve looks around curiously and sees Agent Grey bounding toward her. His face seemed more serious, yet Eve couldn't figure out what was going on.

Grey helps Eve's confusion and grabs his stuff from his desk, already starting to move away slowly. "Maestro? We got a problem. There's a hacker trying to access our database. That alarm means an outsider just tried to get in our systems. We have to all evaluate to a lower level of the unit."

Eve gets up, and rushes without her coat. She just takes her belongings and stuffs them into her tactical belt, with all her spells and ingredients. Eve catches up to Grey and she calls from behind him. "What do we do?"

They keep their pace and wait in the center elevators that lead further down than the main elevators in the hall. They wait with other agents, and Grey explains. "Since this is a threat on the unit, we must be the ones to find out who it is as outfield agents. And, stop them from further action."

Eve tilts her head. "But, how?!" She uttered, confused.

The doors open and Grey grabs Eve's arm and leads them inside before the elevator was full. "Hurry up, and follow me. Our tech and specialists are working on it right now, let's go down to the underground control room, and find out what they've got."

Once the doors opened, they were in a large room, full of controls, monitors, along with a giant center monitor. On the main screen, countless surveillance was broadcasted. People all crowd in the wide and spaced room, able to fit so many decently. Seas of people wave the partner agents into the center of the room. Eve walks towards the screen, and sees the director looking up at it in front of them. Grey walks over to him, she follows and stays slightly behind.

Grey points out while looking at the alert. "They used an EMP to hide from the first alarm, but the control room still locked them out. It seems they're using an odd encrypted device, or ability to come and go without a trace. It seems we might have some rebels or anarchists."

Eve whips her head to Grey. Her eyes go wide and she holds her fists to her cheeks. "Why would we have that?"

The Director steps in closer, hearing Eve's outburst from behind. He stands before the agents with a small smile still. "I can answer. Different viewpoints. We never know what they want, but it's usually never good. We don't know who they are, but we have this surveillance and the few security guards they tried to take out. They don't seem well planned out, or possibly though they could storm in here." Which was near impossible to do. And just a few people in masks didn't seem like enough at all.

Grey sternly breaths out. "What's the captain's orders?"

The director looks back at the monitor speaking, calmly and confidently. "We'll look at street surveillance and see if they go through any."

The surveillance lessened to just the area around the building, and a few blocks out. They go back to the time the alarm was set off, sped up to now, and the director's eyes glow as he observes. He points out to one of the monitors. Someone zones in at the camera footage Oracle spotted and projected it across the screen.

"Looks like we found one. A male just appeared, he wasn't there till a crowd past an alleyway and he took off running there. His hood fell off so I can see it's one with a gas mask still on. He's off in the east, agents. Go try to find them, but be inconspicuous." Oracle then turns back to the partner agents with his order.

Eve turns to Grey urgently. She pours an invisible bucket of glitter onto her and ushers closer to him. "Grey! Quick, let me do a cloak spell on us."

Grey huffs shortly. "Okay, fine. Just hurry."

Eve does her cloaking spell on Grey. He felt like she just poured goo all over him. Then, it was soon gone. Grey tries to brush it off and turns behind to the elevators. Still, he couldn't shake how weird it felt at first, with a guttural response. "Bleh... The hell?- Let's just go...."

_____________________________

They head out of the unit and they start to run. The agents follow a signal from Grey's log where the suspect's recent activity was spotted from surveillance. They make it right on where their tracker had placed it, but looking around, the agents couldn't find the man in the gas mask, or any resemblance of his description.

Grey decides for them to widen their search, while he goes another way from Eve. They were set to meet together a few blocks away if they haven't found anything. Grey also makes sure Eve uses her work log, if she runs into trouble.

They turns around a corner, and sees a man in a hood walking away. His mask peeked out from the sides, it was the suspect. Eve starts to run and shout. "Hey, you! I need a word with you!" Just by her voice, the man starts running away. She shouts to the man again. "Don't run!!"

The man starts to fade into a black mist and indeed, stops running. He lunges into a plume of smoke flying away faster than his legs carried. Eve gets even, becoming lighter and radiant. She uses her powers to try to catch up to his speed. She felt like she was just within grasps of touching the smoke, till it bounced across the alley to avoid her. The smoke steers itself into a back alley. Eve runs up a wall to jump into the another alley, going down a set of trucks and supply stops.

Eve still remains cloaked. Unseen even as she's fast as a flaming arrow, chasing a dark gas. She calls out to it as she veers into another alley with a gate blocking in the middle. The gas phases through it. Eve makes an effort to jump onto the wall and leap over gracefully with one foot pointing out, over the gated fence. She lands with ease and continues to run after. "Heh, you can't run forever! I need to talk to you!"

The man takes a moment to reappear and land back on the ground running. He turns his head and shouts. "Whatcha' want? I can keep this up allll~ day!"

Eve shouts angrily at the suspect. He should know exactly what's going on, because she still didn't fully. "Grr!! I need you to tell me why you're snooping around private property! And what are you and the others using?"

The suspect peers behind at Eve. He tries to get a decent look at her. She was still glowing, almost angelically, and intimidating. Her eyes pouring out like blue flames. The man turns forward again and yelled aloud into the alleys. "Huh?- You're one of them! An agent!!"

Eve suddenly hears something behind her. She turns her head and sees blue and green lightning form then teleports two other suspects behind her. Now she's surrounded but keeps running. She turns back to the first suspect in a mask. He notices his comrades trapping her as planned. He stops by sliding with one knee and pivots his body back around to face Eve.

Eve is unintentionally the center of the rebels' attention. Figures in masks and dark clothing surround Eve's exits. Two on one side, the biggest and tallest along that Eve was chasing a moment ago, on the other. Eve looks around, seeing them trying to get an upper hand on her. Of course, Eve wasn't thinking of the alleyways and downwards paths she was running in, she was going farther away from the unit's precinct, and into their trap. "We don't have to fight, you'll regret it...."

Eve stands her ground as the rebels get closer. Her voice, still confident and unwavering of her mission. "As a federal agent, I think you'll need to be taken in for questioning. I only ask for that, not to have to get physical. We don't know if your intentions are for good or bad, we need to talk."

One of the two paired, gawked, "Talk? We don't want to talk." He oddly wore a thin, black sack over his head, his accomplice only wore a mask over their eyes.

Eve looks to him and ushers. "Well what do you want? I bet things could be a lot nicer if you didn't try to do something illegal." She gives a brief smile.

The sacked man responds, behalf of his cohorts, and maybe all the rebels as well. "We 'want' something you can't do! A revolution, for other superhumans. We don't want the damn organization to tell us what to do any longer! You can all go to hell!"

Eve awkwardly looks down at the ground. "Well... I would agree with you, however, I find them... okay?" Eve looks back up, but not very sure of herself.

The same man outbursts. "Just okay? I was stuck in the ward they locked me in, till I was driven mad! That's NOT okay!!" The man in the sack-mask argued.

Eve jumps to her surprise. She didn't know what it was like, but was told of how some facilities operated, if the information was honest. "?!- Well, I'm definitely going to have to check that out, and whatever else they might just say to please. I've been recently taken. So, I also don't know much about them yet...."

The man in the gas mask breaks the two's tension. We waved his hands up and laxed. "Heh, so, do ya wanna join us instead, maybe? Learn what it's like from the outside?"

Eve jumps again and protests with her arms. She points with her whole hand to herself and exasperates. "What? But, I AM from the outside. I wasn't taken as a child like many! I still don't know if they're good, but I have to find out for myself! We can't have chaos and uproar to keep moving people to change, that's not the plan...."

The one in the gas mask chuckles and points at himself. "I was a child taken once I got my powers. But, I got out young, and joined a revolution. You could join, if you'd prove you're not so loyal to the agency."

Eve raises a brow to the man speaking. "Why listen to you either, again, you're doing something illegal. I don't like that either, and would have to see for myself all the terrible stuff you BOTH do. So, why don't you all tell me about it....?" Eve smiles, tilting her head. She leans and places her hands behind her back innocently. She acts non-threatening, hoping it'll persuade them.

"Stop talking, don't give anything away! Just take her as a hostage!" The man in the sack turns to the man in the gas mask. The silent suspect also nodded in agreement. All of their eyes were now directed to Eve.

Eve smirks, and creates two small rings with two fingers. She points her fingers out to shoot the suspects. The one alone she was chasing dodges, just nearly. He makes a break to charge at Eve. While the one that was more hostile gets a direct hit in the chest. His partner, still silently beside him, watches and dodges away from the blast in surprise.

A quick plume of smoke moves and the man in the gas mask appears right in front of Eve. She defends herself, grabbing a kick sent at her and sweeps his feet from under him. She grabs a fire capsule and claps her hands together, breaking it and sending a swirling flame from her shoulder, to hand. She uses the flame to swipe at the two standing, and the one on the ground, trying to scoot away to get back up.

They try to ambush Eve, after each took a turn to rush her after countering the blasts. Eve grabs capsules from her belt and throws them on the ground. She spins a fiery kick onto the ground, then jumps up and swings a foot to counter a rebel. "Heh, I said you'll regret fighting me. I'm different from them...."

Rings in a spherical fire protected Eve from getting touched and grew so they would corner the group. One body suddenly zipped from spot to spot, getting closer to Eve. She sweeps a foot back behind her and prepares herself for an attack.

Eve starts to glow, and ready to dodge. When suddenly, the taller one in the gas mask swipes at her, then appears right behind her again. Eve stomps her foot and then turns to send a wave of light to counter as she sweeps her leg up. When it was about to touch the man, he vanished. He didn't instantly come back or poof into smoke, just disappeared. It was as if he teleported, without the same electricity the others used.

"H- huh?" Eve felt like she just blinked and he was gone. She backs away into the wall as protection from the other two still present.

They both run towards her, after murmuring to each other. She takes from her belt two different capsules, and clashes her hand together in front of her. A fan of violet and green fire shoots towards them, and they back away. Eve waves her hands, and fist, at them as they were caught unbalanced. She sweeps a kick with the two flames twirling around her. The rebels hall to the ground with small burns all over them from her attacks.

Eve tries to finish them off till they surrender. She kneels and presses her fingertips onto the pavement. She creates a large ring around her, when suddenly inside of it, a dark, shapeless sludge appeared from the ground and tried to fight Eve's light. It twitched, shot back down and up from the ground sporadically.

Eve stands up hunched, and breaks the circle as everything slowly stops glowing. "What... was that?...." Eve looks back up after the odd occurrence. Holding just her fists up preemptively, not knowing what to expect at first. The two rebels still present tried to get back up and use the opening to attack. Suddenly, something pops up from the group between them and Eve.

'Someone' in a gas mask pops up, their head phasing from the ground. "Aaahh- oouch!!... What did you do?! Ffff- jeez!!... That stings so much!" The man in the gas mask fidgets and rubs his aching head with his hands profusely. Eve sees his torso is turning black and disappearing into her own shadow.

Eve tried to back away. Even with her shadow not on him, a squiggly dark line still attached himself to her. "H- huh, you have a shadow power?"

The man waves his arms as he's still halfway into the ground. "And what on earth did you use?!" He cried bitterly.

Eve breathes a confident chuckle. "Heh, light. Your ability can't withstand mine."

'Mr. Gas Mask' holds his head and rubs it a bit sorely. "Ouchie... No fair~ That really burned like no other, ya' know? Imagination paper cuts and lemon juice all over your freakin' body! My head felt like it was burning up..." He shimmies himself out of Eve's shadow and sits on the ground with a loud and exhausting 'plop'. For such a bigger guy than the other two, he was kind of like a giant child.

Eve clenched her fist together and stomps one foot down, sending a light to flash suddenly. She gains their attention as they stop fighting. "All of you! Last chance to come with me nicely. I don't want to hurt any of you but I must, if you resist."

Eve hears a sigh and verbal pout from the gas mask. "Aww... you don't HAVE to hurt us." He opposed.

Eve holds a fist close to her, hiding a capsule inside for safe measures. "Then, come with me for a moment, and don't try to hurt me as well."

"Fat chance...." 'Mr. Sack' gawked. He ran towards Eve, and suddenly he took some shiny out of his pocket. Eve dodges backwards as he swipes a knife towards her. Eve whines up a fiery spin-kick into the man's stomach, with his knife in the opposite hand she swung from. He drops it, stumbling back.

As he tries to quickly bend down to grab for it, Eve points up, using her finger to let off a firework up to the tops of the buildings above. This is hopefully something Grey could see, he would hopefully know it was hers.

The sack man jumps up and turns around wildly. He pushes his partner to run as they try to make a break for it, before backup comes. "Let's get out of here!!" He shouts as he turns to the shadow-rebel.

The lone rebel waves them off and shouts back. "You guys go on head! I'll hold her off."

The two just quickly got together and on his command, they huddled and took off in an electric flash. The one with the shadow power watched them and turned back to Eve.

Mr. Gas Mask turns back to Eve. "Now, where were we?" He tilts his head, giving the same harmless act Eve did.

Eve looks down at him and coolly answers. "Hmph, you coming with me for questioning." She then smirks.

The man gets up and starts to walk closer. "Right, sure, but can I ask questions too? You said you weren't 'really' working for 'em. What are you then? Were you taken? Also, are you single by chance-?"

Eve interrupts sternly and waves an arm to silence him. "No more questions. What are you doing here?"

The lone rebel shrugs, kneeling on the ground. He showed no signs in fighting. He might have not wanted to. "Heh, just wanting to see what the big hub was about the agency. We're part of people who've escaped or hid from the power-militia. If you've never heard about us, you must have not seen other superhumans before them, have ya?"

Eve nervously shakes her head. She had, just different, since she's been learning about her kind for years now. "I'm new, and not fully sided with the agency's, but another. I also assume you don't know anyone in that building do you? I think, if we just show each other our different point of views, we'd not need to fight. If you talk to me, we won't need to do anything further than that. As long as you don't try to harm anyone."

Gas Mask coos contemplating. He scratches the back of his head, but not to mess with the straps of his mask. "I don't know, heh I don't want to fight ya either but... We're on opposite sides, for now."

Eve scoffs and corrects him. "Hey, I'm on my side. That doesn't mean the agencies, they just need me for some reason..."

The man gets up. Eve didn't notice till he was still and in front of her, the suspect was even taller than her partner Grey. He really seemed harmless however, just trying to make conversation. "Why? Maybe you don't need 'em?"

A loud clash, followed by shouting interrupts the two. "MAESTRO!!" Eve, and Mr. Gask Mask, turn to Grey, turning around a corner at them.

Gas Mask takes a step away from Eve, then makes a full turn, and tries to run off the other way. "Welp! Gotta go! Bye, Sunshine. Hope we meet again!"

Eve quickly turns back to the suspect. "Hey! We're not done here!" She tries to reach for him but he disappears in a dark swirling trail down to the ground.

Eve looks down and around at her shadow, following it as it casts down the alley, closer to Grey. Eve shouts, but Grey still didn't understand. "Grey! Watch your shadow!" As he's still running toward Eve.

Eve quickly places her fingertips onto the ground and glows. She hoped the light could protect Grey from a possible attack from the shadowy figure. She gently breathes and a circle appears around her and starry orbs float all around the entire alleyway.

Grey finally starts to halt, halfway across the way from getting to Eve. At least she made him stop at a safe proximity. "Maestro! What are yo- ?!"

Suddenly the fidgeting, thick mist popped from the ground, and proceeded to stumble to Grey. No matter how fast the shadow moved, it couldn't escape from a light orb hitting his shapeless figure. "Aaaahh!! Goddangit!! Again?!" The man shoots up from the ground behind Grey.

Shadow user goes to attack Grey. Grey quickly turns, using his arm and shoulder to push him away. Once Gas Mask was in his normal form and stumbling from his counter, Grey strikes at him. He sends a shoulder right into the other man and knocks him back. Grey takes out a small cylinder, and with a click of a mechanism, it launches into a steel stick. He swings at the rebel a couple of times till he was able to shift again, and reappears behind Grey in a dark mist.

Grey doesn't turn but swings the back of his weapon. Like a fool in a trap, the gas masked man gets a blow to the face. Grey turns, and he swings at staff, till he sweeps and foot and knocks the rebel down. Gas mask grunts falling onto the cold, hard ground. "Oof- !! Okay, now I REALLY gotta get out of here...." He kicks his legs out and runs as fast a he could from off the ground, till he was in a sprint.

Gask mask ran away from Grey, Eve tried to catch up from the other side with her power. "Stop!" She shouted, getting lighter and faster so she could make ground.

The suspect ran out of the alley and collided with a few civilians outside. As a few people fell or were suddenly looking. From the quick commotion, the man in the gas mask had vanished. Eve and Grey look out of the alley, and around investigating.

Eve takes a step out of the shadows and Grey grabs her arm. "Don't follow... We already lost him. Let's just head back and give word." Grey undoes the mechanism, and brings the pole into a small cylinder again.

Eve points to it as he puts it away. "What's that?", she asked. Grey looks down at his hands and takes it back out to show.

Grey holds his palm out with his weapon cradled in his hand. "This? It's a mechanical bo staff, a perfect non-lethal, self-defense tool."

Eve jumps up intrigued, and excitedly cups her cheeks. "What? I want to train with one! I don't want to use the guns or stuff as is...."

Grey quickly shrugs and nods. He walks closer to the end alleyway, as he puts his weapon back in his pocket. "Certainly, you may. I'm not a fan of lethality if the situation doesn't call for it either. You can keep it too, versus checking out a gun each day."

Grey looks out to the street. "We want them alive, of course we wouldn't just try to kill them. Follow along, we've been here for long enough." Grey turns away, back to the direction of the S.O.U. Eve follows behind and eventually catches up. Grey kept silent walking back, and Eve never spoke up to break the silence between them.

____________________________________

It wasn't until they arrived back at S.O.U. headquarters, Grey was the first to speak. As soon as they passed through the doors, his temper finally erupted. He turns to Eve, cold and harshly. "What happened back there?!"

Eve waves her arms, frantically explaining to her partner what had happened through words and hand gestures. "I was chasing one guy and two teleported with the same flash they used before behind me. We fought a bit, they said they're part of a revolution and some had escaped the agency. I'm assuming they're part of a resistance group, and hate anything the agency does. The one stayed so his friends could escape. He tried to convince me to go with them." She was still shocked about the events that happened.

Grey worries, and questions Eve. "Maestro? You're not thinking about going to join them, are you?"

Eve purses her lips tightly. She then flailed her arms up and down shouting. "Grey! If I could, wouldn't I?! You saw my signal, I didn't follow along with them. I'd be doing anything to get me to the desert, if that was the case!"

Grey clears his throat into his fist and coolly brushes off his worry. "Okay, okay. Making sure... I know you don't really like the agency, but the rebels are another thing. They're a whole new type of 'chaotic' society... I can't have you getting hurt where I can't protect you." If only he was the one to find them first, and not Eve. She could have gotten hurt. She didn't mention to him that one had a knife, because he might flip out.

Eve scoffs childishly. She then waves Grey off. "Protect? I think hide is better but, yes I already know that. I just take no side to any agency, or rebels. No one beside those I've known for so long... I see no one side is in the right, or wrong."

Grey, for a moment was about to each out to Eve. He realized and stopped, whipping his head away before he tried to console her. "E-... Okay, let's just get back to the control room. We'll have to find out more, another way...." With that, they both head back to the lower level.

The two agents make their way back to the lower level clearance. While they had been gone, the unit followed another safety test on the systems, and everything was cleared. No threats were near, thanks to Eve chasing off the rebels. While, also going a far distance away, so that it was deemed clear in the unit's facility to go back to their normal business.

Eve and Grey walk up to the director, who was still there, overseeing a smaller monitor. Him and two others were seated, looking through information.

Eve announces, lowering her voice to sound sincere, but somber. "Director? If I may... I had failed to catch the perpetrators when they were all there. I take responsibility, as we've come back with nothing."

Grey looks at his partner, a bit taken back at her blaming herself. The director turns from a computer and gives Eve a smile. "On the contrary, Maestro, you did just fine. With you, we were able to catch which way they were going. It's at least not completely empty handed. And the bright-side, no data was taken, and everything's fine. Now that we've scared them off."

The director turns and points to the big screen, which had no more warnings. It was street surveillance, and on the lower corner two profiles. One looked very familiar to Eve. The director's words only slightly comforted her. She couldn't forget the one rebel, dead set on getting revenge on the S.O.U.

Eve raises the question on her mind. "I'm curious. This group exists most likely because of the agency. So, what happened to them? One person said they were driven mad. Were they criminals, or hostages? Are some of the sanctuaries safe to live in?"

Grey scoffs and growls annoyed. "Jesus, Maestro. One question at a time...."

Eve peers at Grey, then back. She tries to find the right question that could answer it all. "I mean to say... What drives those people to want to destroy the secret unit?"

The director just sighs and explains the best he could. "Lots of things... just like any system. I'm afraid I couldn't give you a straight answer or short explanation, it's more in-depth than that."

Eve persists on knowing, not getting short answers, but to get real proof of the director's claims. "Well, I would like an explanation, and to see the facilities, given some time. I hope to ensure everything is peaceful enough. I may just be an agent here... but my higher purpose is outside of that. I want the old and new societies to get better at keeping magic and abilities from harm. The creatures and earth included."

Eve hoped she seemed needed, or acting outright of what she actually needed to do for them. It was honest, but she felt like it needed to be stressed more. It wasn't an idea already thought about. Oracle believed Eve could bend and build their rules, for the better. She could make a great higher operative, as she was placed to be. But, the director would give her more room to grow, when, and if, she was ready. Eve was already wanting to be more involved. Her fresh and righteous mind, he plans her to lead their unit alongside them, for something greater.

The director grew more sincere. "Yes, if you'd like to be a part of it. We'll just have to go through some things first. You'll see our rescue for our creatures, then you'll have a lot more treks lined up after. In our and your places. You'll always have access to other government services and facilities for your work, but can give a request form for permission to go see them, if it's not for a mission. For now, your speculation and special guidance is crucial work for you, your partner, and the agency to work on."

Eve nods, face serious with her soft features. "Okay, hopefully I can be of help for the greater good... It seems not all think the unit is so kind." The whole agency too, than just their unit perhaps.

The director breathes a sympathetic sigh. "You're correct, of course. Not everyone gets along with us, you would understand from your experience. So they often plot out attacks on the agency bases. We might have another underway."

Grey adds again. He walks close, and shrugs his shoulders and arms casually. "Maestro said they were rebels. She doesn't know much, but she tried to get more information from them."

Director Oracle nods. He turns to Eve, in question. "Anything particular they wanted?"

Eve looks between the two, then shrugs. "Well... All I heard was that they were trying to get revenge." She wasn't able to get much intel. But, she did personally learn a bit from the rebels about the agency. She hoped to not be tricked by the agency, or even the rebels. She saw no side as favorable, especially if one was apparently violent.

Oracle chuckles almost ironically. "Heh, that's always the main reason they claim. We want our people heard, but no matter how hard we try, not everyone is happy with the results. That's why we also trust you not to be like them. We want your help after all. You have the mind to shape some things that the agency might not grasp fully."

Eve brings a hand to her face meekly. She used to be a threat to them, exposing magic. Yet, they somehow needed her, and her trust, now. "Why me? I- I'm just curious, if I may ask..."

The director speaks a bit more serious. However, he was still kind, and critically thinking. "After reading your case, and our first talk, you Eve, hold a lot of power. A lot of knowledge and skill. It could shape ability users, their livelihoods, our system, and well-being. One person couldn't do it alone, so your help will give us more actions to put forth. You also have a great way at making yourself heard as well. Not many hold such a unique mind and power. And..."

The director paused, looking straight at Eve when speaking, to emphasize. "... You thought to use its purpose for good, like you did before coming here. Heh, you did get some fame. Not for you exactly, but for magic." The director's been trying to prepare her to be the voice of the people this whole time, yet Eve's been hesitant. She needed to hear his idea, to really think about helping them grow. Not for evil, but for their people.

Eve places a hand to her heart, and a princely bow to the director. "Really... Well, as an advisor for magic, I'll make sure the people's voices are heard, even the whispers. Those people...."

Eve then points to the large screen at the suspect list. Three pictures taken from surveillance, the three she encountered. Only two identified in the files below. She only assumed the last one left was Gask Mask to be identified. "... I must see their views too, to not be biased."

Eve's forward thinking brings an idea to the director. "Well, that's perfect. We could also use you to go undercover, if they're up to something dangerous. Sometimes their threats can be a problem. We could find a way if you need to get into a rebel base. Maybe, you could also learn a bit from them. You're the most honest and curious, but it serves you well for this mission, heh."

Eve leans to one leg and looks doubtful. "You're not worried I'd just leave?" She questioned plainly.

Director Oracle shakes his head. "Not exactly, I'd only hope you wouldn't go and attack us. Sure, you can run and hide, but we won't force you to come back. We would monitor you if you ever show abilities off to any normal people again, however. Then, you might expect a visit from us." He smiled and spoke friendly, but the last part sounded eerie, and a bit threatening for sounding so cheerful.

Eve looks around and thinks. She gives her honest feelings. And, her hopes. "After coming here, if I could leave, I'll go to one of the places where magic is part of normal life for everyone. But... I suppose I should try to change things for the better here before that idea. You wouldn't have to fear me exposing anything anymore. I just want to live a peaceful life, if I could. But, I want overall peace too of course..."

Eve gives a soft grin. As much as she love music, I can just stick to that and connecting with others. Or, go abroad to study spells in secluded areas, and beautiful oases. Wherever Eve could try to find the peace.

The director understands her completely. Eve always seeks what's right, a blessing and cursed trait to hold. A lot of weight falls on her shoulders with all the power she possesses and protects. Yet, even Oracle is hopeful in her success. "Maybe one day we could all be at peace, but for now, we have our ways and will try to make it right."

Eve nods and agrees. "Yes, I will help with that as long as you use the knowledge to better societies."

Director Oracle smiles. He holds a hand to his chest, as if pointing. "We'll try, that's part of our mission too."

The director then turns back to the screens in front of him, showing reports coming in. "Well, two of their identities are found from previous attacks, and they most likely have a lot more coming. We'll have to keep this investigation open, till this all settles down."

Grey turns and starts to walk back to the elevators. Eve waves goodbye and she runs off to catch up to him. She stares at him wide-eyed. "Does this happen a lot or something?"

Grey plainly answers. "Surprisingly, yes. It's not the first time dealing with this group. If they're abilities wielders, it's the same group we're familiar with. They looove to plot attacks on us..." he said unamused.

More people come in the elevators before they reach their floor. While Eve and Grey stay close to one edge, Eve brushes Grey's shirt sleeve, and keeps the back of her fingertips touching. She taps him with one finger.

'Grey, I need your opinion on something important if you can hear me... Can I really trust the Director about telling him about my mentor?'

The interaction, followed by the question made Grey think. He leans over and speaks in a hushed tone. "I... Maybe? I don't think he'll cause any harm if you explain it to him. Whether he'll want to contact him will be another thing. It'll be good to mention that before you go adventuring there. Finding out now would be better than later."

'Okay... I need you to talk to him first, are you able to use your power on the Director?'

Grey raised his shoulders, and quickly whipped his head to Eve. He tries to regain and whisper. "What?... I can, but he'll know."

Eve sighs exhausted, bringing both hands to cup her face. She muttered quietly. "Never mind... Sigh, I'll talk to him and hope he doesn't do anything. If he does, he'll never reach him without me anyways. Grey, will you come too?" She rubs her cheeks tired, then looking up at him softly.

Grey nods, and quietly speaks towards Eve's ear. "Of course... I know this will be a sensitive topic for you, since you're so protective of your beloved..." He leans closer, drawing out the last part. He then grinned, taunting her by saying nothing else after that.

Eve whips her head to Grey. She tries to be vocal, while hush in an angry whisper. "?!- I hope you know there's a word after that, and it's a secret civilization... You saw the lives there, you saw him, I love them all."

Grey draws out a toying, and doubtful breath. "Sure you do...."

Eve snaps at Grey annoyed, only fueling his teasing. "Shuddup!"

They step out of the elevator, not before others around them turn at Eve's sudden outburst in confusion. They try to go back to work, as if nothing happened. Eve however keeps her mind full of questions. And, she needed the answers to them.

___________________________________

It was just getting late, around the time Eve and Grey went off duty. However, they had one last thing to do for the day, and Eve was dreading it the most. The director was in his office, typing away at his computer. A knock at the door stops him and he looks to the door.

Eve pops her head in after a moment. "Director? Sorry to bug you, but I was hoping to have a serious talk about some information... I am hesitant, but hope I'm making the right decision in meeting with you."

The door fully opens, not because of Eve, but Grey behind her making their way in. He didn't want to be standing the whole time as Eve was avoiding going in.

The director watches them with a small, inquisitive smile. He waves Eve, and Grey, in to take a seat. "Well, you ask for a small meeting, and you mean with us three? Is there something I should know?" Oracle looks between the two smiling. Confident, yet for once a bit confused. Grey sits down with no hesitation.

Eve however, nods, slowly and cautiously moves closer to the seat to sit next to Grey. "Yes, if you haven't suspected... I have a lot of skill, for someone who's never seen powers before. I actually have met someone, before the agency. A powerful, but peaceful, one. I have come to learn a lot from them..." She admits, but it was hard for her to.

The director rubs his chin and thinks where Eve was avoiding mentioning a mentor before. "Ah, I see. They taught you all of your spell books?"

Eve nods hesitantly. "A grand magician, one that is needed in a secluded place, had shown me the way of what they call 'magicians'. A place where it wouldn't be good if he wasn't there, the civilization would die off, magic there will too. So... I once wandered, till I met him. That definitely was just by great luck, and he taught me everything he knows. He knows a lot, it could be information to bring peace and understanding here, maybe development...."

The director rests a fist under his chin and nods. It all made sense to him, even Eve protecting its identity. "Fascinating, everything you know, truly is from this man?"

Eve nods, but mopes. "Yes, but please don't blame him for my use of it in modern life- It was my decision after all, and didn't plot anything that-." She begged, then a loud scoff interrupted her.

Grey cuts in, for Eve's sake. "Breathe Eve, breathe. I'm sure he's not in trouble for that."

The director nods in agreement, and smiles at the two. "He's not, don't worry. If he knows a lot, we might want to have our researchers meet with him, with your permission and guidance, of course."

Oracle may already know, but Eve still emphasizes. "Okay, as long as he's safe and I WILL contact him first. I need to tell him everything to prepare for our arrival."

Now that it's no longer hidden, it's being stressed as much as she did with Grey. Even Eve knows, and had hid from the director previously, her mentor was also a key to discovering what the ability users were, and what their powers meant.

The director makes a mental note of it, and gleams. He was happy to hear Eve's agreement. They would keep their plan to learn from places Eve traveled, and hope her mentor could teach them a thing or two. "Definitely, we could also definitely use the help. We will try to be mindful, when we start our long trek to them. We could use all the help from him that we can get."

Eve nods slowly, looking down. It was what she wanted, but scared if the agency might do something. "He most definitely would give things that can't be used for evil. He may try to judge the agency's character to see if he can teach them more than a few things, however."

Oracle can see Eve's not hesitating, now talking about this new person of intel. He could suspect such, and wants both Eve's, and her mentor's trust. "Ah, well we will try to prove our intentions are just for help. We don't know what we'd learn from him, but we will use it for good, not in vain."

Eve eyes the director, and confidently speaks. "Good... my mentor's one of few real magicians felt, few wonders felt out there. There's possibly more places like that all over. Shops there carry unique imports for magic. Although incredibly expensive, it's for the magician to use, normal people cannot use it the same way after all."

Grey chimes in, leaning in his chair and arms crossed. He speaks calm and deeply. "Heh, I would also like to add that I saw Eve's memories, of course. Many actually, and she is quite honest. A lot of the things I don't exactly understand but could see its purpose. I would possibly trust this person, as Eve has been with them for years learning under him. She even tried to keep him safe and secret up until now."

Eve give Grey a side eye. She questions his rephrasing, shaking her head. "Wait... just 'possibly'? He understands a lot more about powers than you, he also just understands a lot in general. He's a scholar, a wise teacher, and a protector of a small city." She confidently spoke.

Grey explains, to both the director, and Eve. Pointing out the differences. "He lives in a place where powers can be seen as a gift, not every place is like that. He does know a lot but he doesn't have every answer to shaping a whole system in modern-day life."

Eve pouts at Grey. She still insisted on their help. "Well... that's why we must learn his perspective too, to better ours, and learn what could be a solution to some of our problems. Waters tainted, gardens dying, animals from extinction...." She trails on a small list of what many wonders it could bring. Seeing the town would help others see first hand how it helps a society.

Oracle chimes in, also hoping the two won't make this an argument in front of him. Yet, he smiles, and knits his hand together on his desk. "So, we will meet with your teacher first, then scout for other places for more answers. This information will help the current systems placed with old ones. Hopefully, they can help us as well."

Eve turns back to the director, and nods. "Sure, as long as we are peaceful anywhere we go."

The director waves a hand, laxed. "Of course, not to worry. We'll talk more about where and when later. More of the other details soon. Have a good rest of your night's, you're dismissed."

Eve gets up, bringing a hand to her heart and bowing her head to the director. She's zoned in her heroic acting with her genuine personality. She's relieved, and grateful for the director's word. She will hold him to it, not to break their promise. "Thank you for your time, have a good night."

Grey gets up and only turns his head to Eve. "A moment, Maestro. I want a word with the director, alone."

Eve meekly backs away and turns to open the door to leave them. "Oh- okay. I'm just going to get my stuff..." For some reason Eve was worried, like they were going to talk about her. And somehow, she was worried about that.

Eve leaves the two alone. Now, Agent Grey and Director Oracle stare each other down. Grey, serious, and the director smiling.

Grey finally breaks the silence, and exhales deeply. "I'm glad you're doing all of this, for the agency, but also for Eve. She's been very nervous about coming here, knowing only what her mentor taught her about powers, and their own people. She knew of no others like us, other than the them, and apparently other remaining magicians in the world. Why Eve calls it 'magic' and was taught the history of all that stuff. It was her mentor, and she cares a lot about him."

Oracle brings his hands up slightly, and shrugs. "But, spell-casts are still a cast of something. Either magic or ability, it's the same thing. Like different sides of the same coin. We learned the logic, but there's also the mystic portion. Sadly, we don't know the full story of the past of our kind. Eve has made this aware to us, and the possibility of something greater."

Grey eyes the director and away awkwardly. "Ah, you see it too. The weird part."

The director was only making an observation, but chuckles at Grey response. He can tell he's heard, maybe even seen a fair share already. "Haha, yes, I think so. This is definitely a breakthrough for our kind, we all could benefit from this. Eve could also see herself taking part in helping us, just with time."

Grey crosses his arms and chuckles. He waves with a finger. "Hopefully... Heh! She's a bit of a wild card, that one. She's uncertain of our true motives, she's hesitant to trust us...."

Oracle joins in a small laugh, agreeing. He can see it in Eve's eyes the fire and confidence she had at times. "Haha, as I've been well aware of. You'll have to keep an eye out for her. In case she runs into some troubles. Trust or none, protect her, if you can. She's too valuable to get in harm's way."

Grey eyes Oracle and smirks. "Of course, as it's sure to happen."

Oracle chuckles, cheeks brimming his eyes. "Heh, let's just hope not. You're dismissed, if that's all."

Grey briefly walks away to the door and leaves. He turns as he opens the door. "It is, goodnight, sir."

Oracle waves him goodbye, and smiles till the door closes. Then, everyone was back to their own vices.

_____________________________________________________________________

After a long day at the agency, Eve closes the door to her apartment and takes a heavy sigh, leaning on the door. The day was very confusing, and scary. She turns to the door and puts a seal around it, so no one could enter. The bottom and cracks of the doorframe glowed, knowing the protection charm was set.

Eve and Sameer walk into Eve's bedroom. She unbuttons her shirt a bit and takes out her communicator she's kept hidden. She holds it in her hands and waits as the crystal in the center starts to glow. It flashed for a moment, and Eve brought it in close. "Um... 'Mehl? Are you there?"

A slow flash responds to Eve.

'Of course I would be. Hello, Eve.'

Eve could hear her mentor's voice again. She jumps ups up, cheering gleefully. "Hi 'Mehl~! I wanted to check up on you again! How have you been?" She cradles the crystal and sways left and right in excitement.

'I'm well, and hopefully you are too. Just been so quiet when you're gone. I do miss hearing you sing in the shop.'

Eve blushed idiotically as she gushed over her mentor. "Hehe~, I miss you too! Telling Sam all about you has made me dying to get you two properly introduced!" Eve giggles and infectiously made Yamehl chuckle too.

'As before, I would love to. How has everything been with the organization?'

Eve slumps onto the floor, but speaks still excitedly. Not like she acted relaxed when working, all the time. "Been better! Thankfully, I think we got to resolve some things. But, I've encountered another group now. They hate the agency, so I want to know why. But otherwise, I've been able to live a decently normal life still, in part to having a weird job now."

Eve then pouts and talks in a childish moping. "I've been following their 'no magic in public rules', grrgh! It makes me so upset, but I'm behaving!..." She grumbles childishly.

Yamehl chuckles again, and then speaks sincere and kindly.

'Just hang in there, sorry you're being constricted of your powers. I know you do very well on your own. I have much certainty you could help them if you wanted.'

"Well, I might be. I'm training for a high level operative, or... am, but I've just been following someone around. They've been helping me not rebel against them sometimes, heh...."

Eve jolts and remembers her reason for contacting Yamehl. Her voice got much softer, and worried. "A- actually... I had to come clean about you today. I was worried about them finding you out themselves, and what they might do. I gave them warning, though. I definitely won't allow them to get to you easily. I told them if they ever needed to contact you, that it would be through me. And, if they ever need to go to Uridian, they won't know the location unless they remember it by foot. Unless they need a map, I won't be using one..." She whispered, panicked, but her mentor reassured her.

'It's okay, Eve. You might not have to worry about that. I'm sure as long as they've been treating you well, they will be fine. If I can't reach you, they must come here, if I were to really settle on things with them. You have not to worry about that. I will see their intentions for myself, soon. They will be granted a visit, if they comply.'

Eve sulks into her floor by her bed, she cuddles up to Sam, and sighs heavily. Sameer rests his head on Eve's lap to comfort her. Yamehl continues to try to calm her, as well.

'I'm glad you spoke freely of me, you don't have to be afraid. I don't want to burden you with any troubles...'

Eve gasps, she couldn't fathom her mentor ever being a burden. She however, could argue she's a burden to him. "But! I don't want you to be in trouble... I'll be fine... They live as a new form of magicians, only knowing their own affinity. Nothing about the past, as it was wiped away almost completely...."

Eve whimpers a bit. She knows if secrets are out there, someone's going to try to find it. With Eve being able to be tracked, compared to a secret desert oasis, it could possibly put the civilization at risk. She doesn't want the last bit of hope destroyed.

'Of course, it is still rare and different. Those things tend to be taken or destroyed, but not all have been lost. The earth never lost all of its power. Till the day it ceases to, magicians still coincide.'

Eve draws out, her tone in understanding but nervous. "True...." She twirls the sting of the necklace with her finger. Eve never breaks eye contact from the crystal. It flashes, with the calm, reassuring words of her mentor.

'Heh, I'll leave the rest to you there. I'm sure you'll know what to do. I'll find you, and them. I shall also grant them to visit, whenever it's time. Maybe they could learn some things to better the earth.'

Eve's head perked up. She could use the agency for good, of course with the right teachings. "Yes, yes! That's exactly what I hoped too!! If not, I should see if I could try to teach them a few. I just need some more materials, I've used up too much of my resources for the agency recently... And, it's impossible to get ingredients here! So far, I would also say being a mentor is hard work, hehe." She rubs her head awkwardly as she giggles. Yamehl could practically see her doing it, just from hearing and knowing her.

'Haha, the student becomes the teacher, you grow so quickly. I feel like there's not enough spells and magic in the world that you couldn't learn.'

Eve mopes as brings the crystal closer. "Yet, I still can't do every spell, or have everything I need sometimes. That's a bit of a bummer not being able to come see you... Hopefully if they let me see you for work, I can learn and practice more!"

'Heh, I miss teaching you very much as well. I don't know much else I could really teach... Ah, I'd have to come up with a list if you want one, heh.'

Eve giggles, a moment after, her feelings gave way in her voice. "'Mehl, I miss you so, so much..." Eve drops her head again as she looks at the crystal, only seeing it glow brighter as Yamehl would talk. It flashed, and she heard his response.

'We will meet again, if fate allows it. I'm sure it will, soon. I've missed you too.'

But, Eve didn't know if he missed him as much as she did. Or, feel the way that she did. "...." She goes silent, unable to try to forward the conversation with what she wanted to say. Yamehl noticed, and said.

'What's on your mind?'

As response, Eve blushes and panics as she couldn't tell him the truth. She started to ramble embarrassed. "N- nothing! I was just thinking if I could see you soon. Have breakfast again, make potions and remedies, go out- and stuff! Heh! Galaxies! I miss it so much, heh heh...."

Eve internally screams, she couldn't sound more blunt. She couldn't even talk to him without feeling like it could be their last, everytime now. She almost couldn't hold it in any longer. Her years of interest, finally overcoming her. Her words couldn't keep her deepest secrets forever.

Her mentor didn't seem to notice, or just didn't bring it up. Yamehl only replies to Eve's response, and her hopes.

'We shall. You're always welcome here at any time. Even if the Emperor looks for you, however, I suspect he's forgotten all about you.'

Eve jokingly chuckles. "Heh, I'm sure if he sees my face, he'll remember. I'll just have to make sure I'm not by the palace."

'We shall see, then. I'll always try to help you, if that man tries anything. I promise not to get myself thrown in prison, but I will make no exception to the emperor if a sword is directed at you again....'

Eve giggles and sways to one side. She waved Sam over, so that she can pet, and speak to her friendly freely. "Don't worry about me~ I'll be okay! If anything, I've been trained to fight now! I can protect myself in many ways, hehe! The heroes always prevail!"

If Eve's a hero, she was indeed getting stronger. But, for what? She was getting stronger, physically and ability-wise regardless. Eve was practicing enough, and gaining more strategy at the S.O.U. Eve even exhausted her powers at times, a rare thing for her to feel.

Yamehl was supporting Eve's journey, as scary as it was at times. But, her mentor can tell somethings different.

'Heh, you've changed a bit, haven't you?'

Eve straightens her posture, surprised. "Eh? Well... considering I've been very temperamental, scared, training to be a bit of a weapon... I'm still 'Eve', no agency will change me so easily. I still know what I do this for...."

'You have much to show for yourself, you've come a long way. Just from entering my shop, to how you are now. All these years, each trail, you've gotten stronger from.'

Eve wipes her hand under her eye, feeling her vision getting blurred. "G- goodness, 'Mehl... Heh, you're making me emotional. I'm sorry if it sounds like I'm crying, it's happy tears..."

'Oh Eve... If you wish it, I'll always be by your side. You wouldn't have to face this alone in the beginning. You can always call to me...'

Eve thinks deeply, she tries to be logical. Yet, her heart gives way. "... You're better where you are, even for your sake. You have much to do... and so do I... I will always communicate with you, by your side, or not. You're also always in my heart, and not a day goes by that I don't think about you..." She huffs with a tired smile.

'Please get some rest. It'll be a new dawn for you soon. We will talk soon enough, have not to worry about that, heh.'

Eve softly but gleefully cheered. "Talk soon, 'Mehl. I hope that your day goes well."

'Thank you, Eve. I'll also keep our ties close to my heart, you have been my dearest companion. Do rest well.'

"You're my dearest as well...- ah I mean to say likewise, heh! You and Sameer are the greatest thing in my life. I wish you all well." Eve chokes and rephrase her words, looking at Sameer with eyes widened. Yamehl assumes she was having a hard time saying goodbye, as it was always hard to, even more now.

'Take care of you two.'

Eve smiles warmly, petting Sam in the process. "We shall."

Eve waits for the crystal to fade and become a normal-looking crystal again. Their conversations had ended. She holds it there, then puts it around her arm, and puts her hands to her face, tiredly. "I need to shut my mouth..." She lays her head on her knees and rests the crystal on her head in her fist. "Why is love so scary!" She kicks out and scrambles with her hair, becoming more messed up and frizzy as a result. Sameer looks at her curiously and a bit concerned.

The next day began. Many were out on their usual commutes. The S.O.U. stood tall in the center of New York, the busy life surrounding the secrets laying underneath. Eve pops her head into the director's office before she starts working.

Eve didn't sleep well the night before, just thinking about this meeting with the director about something. She didn't care about their mission the other day. Only that if things like her tiger friend, and magical materials, were anything the S.O.U. has a record of.

Once Eve peers inside the office, she politely and meekly utters. "Good morning, Director Oracle. May we talk for a moment?" Her voice cut the quiet clicking the director was at his desk working, as he stopped to look up at her. He waved her in, and gave a warm smile.

Eve walks in, and her partner Agent Grey sneaks in following her. The director looks between the agents, and beams. "Good morning you two. Great work yesterday, how was your first mission, Maestro? Easy enough?"

Eve keeps her nervous look. She holds one of her arms and brushes it. "It was fine, but slightly alarming. It brought up at some point something I want to discuss with you. It's unrelated to cases, and is a personal matter."

The director nods and gestures a hand to two empty seats in front of his desk. "Oh I see, come in and sit."

Both Eve and Agent Grey sit facing the director. Grey looks the same as ever, cold and unreadable. Eve is acting skittish, playing with her feet in her seat, and shifting around. She was looking very worried. Director Oracle folds his hands, and rests his tilted, curious head on top. "What seems to be the matter?" He asked them.

Eve looks up and straightens herself when speaking. A hand idling in the air, then moving her hand to her heart. "Agent Grey has informed me of the S.O.U.'s involvement in unidentifiable, or rare creatures. I have a tiger named Sameer, and Sam... acts a little different. We wanted to ask if you know about other creatures that could understand humans and our ways. Like perhaps a familiar?... I wonder if the agency has anything I've heard of before."

The Director's eyes flashed a dusty, lavender gleam then closed and hummed to himself thinking. "Hmm... I don't believe we have anything quite like it. Maybe humanoid creatures with similar behavior, but I've never seen a correlation to familiars before. However, I can do a bit of digging and give you an answer soon. Does Sam do anything else that stands out as surprising?"

Eve shifts in her seat, trying to think of anything else. "Hm... Not really sure. He doesn't know about normal tiger life and behaviors, but that may be from being taken as a cub. He even tries to make noises that sound like a human baby babbling, hehe. He can answer yes and no questions, and understand multiple languages. That part just seems like a miracle. I asked about the familiar, because I believe an ancient book or scroll might have answers like that somewhere...."

Oracle thinks but is still perplexed by the question. He wonders if Eve could tell more, to understand the case. "Have you read something like this before?"

Eve thinks of a way to explain. An explanation, without mentioning her mentor. Eve tries her best to keep a calm face, but her eyes looked a bit scared. "In the past, just in old libraries... I remember it was about different creatures, their abilities, some link to humans. I also read from a book that they've been extinct for a long, long time."

The director understands a bit more. From what he at least knew, "Well, just like humans and plants, animals too have been appearing, much less frequent to find, sadly. It's true that some discovered creatures are kept in sanctuaries, others in government labs and testing. Depending on who found it first, but they've occasionally found indeed."

Eve looks at Oracle shocked. "Really?!- I know this might be unlikely, but... Could we see a sanctuary??" She jumps up and her eyes sparkle. Eve defaulted to her childish behavior. Animals, even rare creatures, are all a wonderful part of this earth's inhabitants.

The director innocently beams. "Haha, sure. Give it some time, and you'll get access to the facility. You can even bring Sam. You won't have to worry about departing from your beloved furry friend. We might have him meet the staff and doctors at the center, but not to worry. You'll be everywhere he is too. The staff will have to communicate with you anyways on behalf of Sam, heh."

Eve gets up. She clasps her hands together, and pressing it to one of her cheeks, smiling. "Thank you! We'll get back to work, but thank you, again. If he's magical or just a smart tiger, he's safe with me! Have a good day~!" Eve turns to go straight back to work. Grey gets up and nods to Oracle. He then follows Eve to the door.

The director waves them off. "Goodbye you two. We'll let you know what we find."

The agents walk out. It seemed like it went well, incredibly well. How it went so well astonished Eve. She was surprised they just up and let her request anything, and the director gave the approval. It seemed odd how he's able to just do anything he wants. Eve doesn't even know how he's easily able to grant things. She doesn't even know what power he's been using when looking at papers. That last question was on Eve's mind the most.

"So, I'm curious. What's the Director's ability?" Eve tilts her head to Grey as they're walking back to their desks.

Grey knows what his power is, but thinks for a moment. He seemed almost nervous about something. "Intelligence. He knows everything once a screen is turned on around him, or flips through pages... He also sometimes read information off of people."

That last part caught Eve off guard. Alarms were suddenly ringing I'm her head. She needed him to repeat, just to be certain she heard correctly. "-?! Eh, what now?!"

Grey has known all along. The director's power, being able to read things instantly, can be done on anything. He could look at a person and possibly read details about them. Oracle couldn't get specific information, but only things relevant about the person. Either way, he can know more than a person gives off.

"He's a great director that way...." Grey breaths and scratches his head awkwardly. He looks away, since he already knows Eve's face is wide-eyed right now.

Eve's eyes are indeed wide in shock, but then her brows furrow. Worry and rage, now flowing through her thoughts. She felt stupid not to ask sooner about the director's ability. Grey should have told her.

Eve thinks in realization. She thought, Grey probably didn't care if the director would catch on. As long as he kept his word not telling. She stressed it was important NOT to uncover the secrets, with so much at stake. Especially, one life in particular at stake Eve wanted to hide.

Eve grabs Agent Grey's arm tightly. She only wanted to get his attention, and know exactly what she was wanting him to do. Read her mind as she's making contact with him.

'Does that mean he might already know... everything I know? And my mentor?!?!'

Grey knows nothing, but could only assume. He would was it was more likely, but he didn't want to say that. He speaks aloud to Eve's telepathic thought. "Maybe... I don't have those answers." His voice was monotone, still playing off as cold.

Eve never let go but just tightened her grip for a moment. Her eyes scowl, burning blue orbs into his cold, grey eyes.

'Why didn't you say anything?!'

Grey coldly admits, but something melts away into a bit of sadness. "Because, I originally knew I wouldn't need to say anything for information to be found out, but you ended up being honest about everything. I was intending for him to find out... but not as much now as I was before... Sorry, I thought you'd lie and keep secrets from us. That never ended up being the case."

It's not like Grey's words comforted Eve, but he continues. "He still might not know everything. It's usually whatever can be read from having a conversation."

Eve didn't suspect Agent Grey to admit it, or be sorry now. But, it might have been too late. She needed to know the whole situation.

'Which is?! You SAID you wanted him to find out till now. Were you going to WARN ME EVENTUALLY?! What if he read me? Or, from any information from me?!'

Grey without thinking, turns, grabbing Eve's wrist, and pulling her close to face him. She was getting more loud in his head. It was nothing he's experienced before reading other people, and is deafened by the invisible ringing in his ears.

Grey now fights back. His eyes scowling back, and he growls. "Trust me... you hide it terribly. You naturally want to nonstop talk about him, and magic. And, this is where that got you... At the unit, with me." He scoffs at his own words. It was still unbelievable to the two of them, it still doesn't spell any good together, and it hasn't changed for the better. Now that the promise he kept was built off of false hopes.

Eve feels hurt, like her promise meant nothing. Like the importance that she was holding meant nothing to protect. That made her feel powerless, which only made her more fired up with rage.

Eve gets close to Grey's face, making sure every word now coming from her mouth, was just as loud. "So, if I just hid in one of the secret wonders, I would have been fine! I wouldn't have to deal with you, or this whole secret unit! It wouldn't be endangered if I hadn't come back! I really should have just stayed... Could have given a farewell to my music channel, and told everyone I went to go live where I 'actually' belong! A place I actually feel safe in!!"

Grey stands straight and waved his hands protesting. He didn't mean for this to get out of hand, or get any worse. It was only to understand her teachings more. Eve at first to him was just for information extraction. However, the information he found was unlike any other.

The mission Grey went on to get Eve, he couldn't imagine that it was going to change everything he once knew. It was a key to all the puzzle pieces they were keeping safe. He just wouldn't find the time to tell her, and pay her back for all that she's done. "Listen, I'm sorry. At first-" He takes a step to meet her eyes directly again.

Eve pushes Agent Grey's shoulder as he gets closer, with little effect it gave. "I'M STILL SOME TEST SUBJECT TO YOU!! I don't know if I can trust ANY of you with magic!"

Grey pushed too far, he crossed a line he shouldn't have. Not being honest to Eve. It may have been too late, but he wanted to make his wrongs, right again with Eve. "Please, can we just sit and ta-"

Eve doesn't sit, and only turns away from Agent Grey. "I don't want to hear any directions anymore!..." She storms off to the elevators in the hall. People are watching her walk by, muttering and anxiously watching Eve.

One pushes out of the way a bit from a crowd, hearing Eve's voice shouting from the other side of the office. "Hey, uh?... Are you okay?" A slightly familiar face ushers over to the commotion going on. Agent Klyde walks over but Eve moves around him in passing. He turns wide-eyed and still confused.

She anxiously breathes out, waving a hand away. "I'm FINE... I just need to get out of here..."

Grey was able to catch up to Eve with Klyde as a small obstacle to buy him time. Grey lightly tries to touch Eve's arm, but she turns and whips her hand away. "Maestro, no...." He pleaded as she's getting more pissed at him.

Eve stomps and gets in Grey's face. She sternly points at him, and then herself. "FUCK OFF GREY!! I have something more important to do right now! And, it's making sure you don't even go near it!!"

Eve now jogs away, just running to some quick exit. The elevators were getting crowded, and it would take a while for one to arrive on her floor. She was too irritated to deal with another thing on her mind.

Another, females voice calls out. "Maestro? What's going on?" Agent Blare darts to the elevators where she heard the dramatic fighting was. Blare positions herself standing in front of the elevators.

Grey turns to Blare and calls out. "Blare, don't let her leave! I need to talk to her."

Blare almost processes Grey's sentence, but Eve sweeps a hand not to get close. "Blare, I'm leaving and please don't stop me!..."

Blare looks between the two agents, lost and dumbfounded. She didn't know what was going on, or why Eve was suddenly leaving. "B- but why? What happened?!"

Blare was in front of the elevators, and Grey next to Eve, blocking the offices. Eve just had to back away from them to hopefully leave from some other exit. "I need a moment alone. With no one following me...."

Eve walks over to a lone window at the hallway's end, instead of the crowded entrance to the elevators. Unlike the glass windows in the office, this one could be opened. It was a new exit she could use. She trots off and acts as if she's dropping something onto her as glitter flushes her from head to toe, then vanishing.

Grey shouts as he tries to bolt over to her. "Maestro!! What are you doing?!" Eve keeps opening the window and climbing up the frame, she turns.

Eve turns to him for a moment before holding herself from the window, several stories high from the ground below. "... Something I should of done sooner. I need to take my break already...."

With that, Eve leaped from the window and dived. She then quickly and fluidly held her hands together as a rope of light met her grasp. She was propelled up and flying on a string of light connected to the sky.

Grey rushes to the window to watch his partner escape. He clenches the frame tightly. Spouting after her. "EVE!! GODDAMNIT!!" He slammed a fist down onto the now open window, and then stormed away.

Eve turns her body and swings over to the roof of the apartments with ease. Eve lands on the roof, and holds the rope suspended in the sky with one hand, then when she lets go it disappears up into the air in a flash.

Eve runs to the door and grabs her keys. At least Grey was kind enough to give her the keys. That may be his regret now as she uses it to run down a few flights to her apartment. She runs into the hallway, and to her door. Although she wasn't being chased, she had to hurry like she was. Making sure all the doors were locked behind, and still running from one place to the next in a flash.

Eve goes inside her apartment quickly. Sameer pops out of Eve's bedroom to see her slightly tired and distraught. He runs over to her, and she finally sees him. She tries to smile but Sameer even notices it was a bit forced. Something was off. "Phew-!? Sam? Hey, Sam...." Eve nervously uttered.

Eve rushes over to hug her beloved friend tightly. "Sam, I need to contact Yamehl for something important!... I'm also going to put barrier charms on the doors and windows from now on. We're not in danger, but I'm not sure of our safety at the moment. And, I'm just making sure 'all of us' will be alright."

Eve gets up and goes straight to her room, to the crystal necklace on her dresser. It was time to contact her mentor. She couldn't hold off knowing they could possibly go behind her back to find him. "Huff! I need to see if Rin's been in contact too... I need to know how that went at least."

Eve's been so busy she's not asked her designer if they've been contacted. Rin not calling meant it was fine, they hadn't been in touch yet, or on the offset they could have been taken.

Eve huddles onto the floor, couching between her dresser and a wall. She hugged the crystal in her hands as it started to glow. "Please, please, PLEASE pick up... Ah, Yamehl??"

The crystal started to flash, and a voice spoke from somewhere. She could feel the crystal vibrating and humming as Yamehl greeted her with a curious tone in his voice.

'Yes, Eve?'

Eve squeals happily. It was as if nothing mattered for a moment. She was too excited to hear her mentor's voice. "'Mehl~!!"

'Heh, it's always a pleasure to hear from you again, Eve. Are you doing well?'

Eve's voice got softer. Her mentor could hear in her voice become somber and worried. "Yamehl... A large agency organization has found me. I'm having to work for them, but I've been trying to keep some things, like you, a secret... They somehow have the way to possibly find you, still. I needed to talk to you urgently! People are trying to survey, collect, and protect anything unusual. I'm still uncertain of this large group. There's no immediate danger from them, they definitely might try to find you regardless. I definitely don't want you having to work for them... I'll be fine where I am, but I'm making sure you, anyone, or anything from Uridian aren't easily taken into the agency..."

Yamehl is receiving a lot of information just from Eve ramblings. Also from her emotion, since she was expressing a lot of panic. He could tell since picking up the crystal, she's gone farther away from him. He can now understand why. He didn't know where exactly, but could only feel her from a long distance.

Eve's strong, stressed signal faded far away. It would take Yamehl time and 'energy' to find her, and the agency. But he could, all the while not leaving, or being gone long from this shop. Yamehl only wishes he'll quickly find Eve.

'Eve... I'll be alright but, are you really okay? Where are you?'

Eve nervously whispers into the crystal. "A place called New York City. I'm in North America... I'm scared of a lot of things, but they're not about me. No one's been hurt exactly, but forced to follow new laws for our kind. They're one of us, but they call themselves magicians, or know much about it. They have no idea about magic and are new to understanding anomalies..."

Yamehl now understands everything. It was clear what modern life was trying to do now with magic. Yamehl only feels a bit of pity in how childish humanity was, blind leading the blind. Blind magicians, taking their own.

'Ah, like most things these days. I can look into this from my shop. Till then, I'll just stay here and close shop up tightly, heh. Do they have a society?'

Eve explains everything, wanting her mentor to know, when the agency might oppose. "Yes, very secret, thought-out societies. Many isolated, but I'm in one of the ones discreetly placed around normal society. It's their way of hiding these wonders, and having people live as normally while under their rules. Keeping everything in secret and with watchful eyes. They've put me as a fighter for them however, I don't see why. I want to make sure they won't take you too! They're trying to use people's natural abilities, as they find out what they mean for themselves!"

It was unfamiliar to Eve, how they follow such an intrusive yet secretive life. It's not like she flaunts around, performing physical spells people can see as she does in Uridian. But, it's still new rules for Eve.

'An interesting situation to be in. Eve, sit tightly where you are. Make sure you keep this crystal on you at all times. I can try to get to you whenever you run into danger. If you ever need to talk to me, I'll be there. I'll also contact you, if I'm ever found.'

Eve pleaded sorrowfully. She couldn't let him get himself caught. If only she could go to her mentor, protect him if needed. Warn him that others might try to capture the rest of the magic and secrets that world, and even beyond the universe, had. "Please... Please don't get hurt. Don't ever leave home either, they need you."

'But, my apprentice also needs me....'

Yamehl speaks in a soft, worried tone. Eve protested, sincere and heartfelt back. She was worried for him  as well, for whatever could come to destroy the desert-land they loved. "Your apprentice wants you safe, and the town happy. I'll be fine for now. I'll contact you in case of any danger...."

'Promise me, you're really alright?'

Eve exhales tiredly. "Yes, I swear to the stars... I'm just scared for the town and magic. I just don't want another wonder to die...." Eve tears up a bit. Her vision only gets glossy from the water collecting in her eyes. She was stirred up from the ideas of her mentor taken, or the town dying as the magic disappeared.

Her mentor feels her pain and worry. He feels his own for her, and her own safety.

'Be careful, Eve... You're very important to me, just know that... I very, very much mean that."

This was her chance to tell her mentor one last thing, in case it were to be the last time they talked. She wanted to say something, clenching the crystal tightly to her lips. "Yamehl?... I...." She tried to speak suddenly, but the words couldn't come out.

'... Yes, Eve?'

Eve pauses, giving up and nervously brushing her past thoughts aside. "I... heh, just hope I can talk to you soon again. I might contact you a lot more."

'I'm always fine with that, heh... Keep your communicator on you for protection. I will let you know if I ever get any unexpected visitors. You won't have to worry too much about me. I'm sure it will be alright in the end. I'll hear from you soon, and thank you for the warning.'

Eve let go of the thoughts completely. She could only support him from afar, and love him from afar. Even talk to him, from afar only now. She still couldn't ask for more, as long as he was there, and she was there from her mentor. However they could manage. "T- thank you... for being the best person I could have asked for...."

'Heh, that's my line. I... shall hear from you soon... Please take care of yourself, Eve.'

Eve stumbles, saying goodbye was too hard for her in the moment. "I- I will. Talk soon 'Mehl...." Eve looks down at the glowing crystal. A few short moments passed and the crystal went back to its normal state. It didn't hum or glow, it was just a misty crystal pendant.

Eve finally breathes again, letting out a deep sigh. She clutches the communicator crystal to her heart. "Oh the stars- In astrospheres, vast and magnificent, why can't I tell him I like him!!" She then kicks out her feet and starts whimpering.

Sameer walks into Eve's bedroom again, after hearing her shout. Eve is still lost in thought, but as if she sensed his presence, she calmed. Then, realized he was there, but not know for how long. "I'm pathetic- H- hi, Sam...."

Sameer goes over to Eve sitting. He bows his head into Eve's shoulder, and she hugs him. At least the tiger was always around when she needed support. "I'm going to leave this place sealed off. I'll be back once work is done. We're fine, but I don't trust this agency just yet."

Sameer just plops his head into Eve's lap. Eve brushes his hair in thought. "Hopefully me storming off can be forgiven, later. I'm not even sorry for running off and hiding... Even the director might not be as smart and powerful as my mentor, especially compared to HIS power. I shouldn't worry too much...."

Eve brings Sameer's cheeks up off her lap, jowls smooshed in her hands, looking at each other. "And, you my furry friend, stay the same free tiger, as free as we can have you now. I sadly don't think you can chill on the rooftops without me for a while, we have to keep this place closed for more than just us."

Eve let's go and Sam sits up straight. She gets up and keeps her attention to talking to Sameer. "I... have no certainty if my mentor or the town will be safe. Heck, other places like the town might be in danger too, from who knows what. I can't have them destroyed. For now, we can only hope...."

Eve walks out of her room with Sameer. She turns to him. "You're the best friend I could have with me. I'm glad you stuck by my side. The desert gave me you for my travels. So, I'm never alone anymore. I will try to keep them safe, for all that they have blessed me with...."

Sam, magic, the town, everywhere. Eve intends to keep the world's whispers protected but she alone couldn't watch over everything. She didn't even know of every place she was intending to watch over.

Eve puts a charm on all the windows so that they couldn't be opened, unless with magic. Once the seals were made, the edges and cracks of the frames glowed a bright light, as if it was shining a light from the other side. She does the same charm on the door leaving. From the outside it glowed, the slight opening from the bottom seeping out light. Though, from the other side of the door it was normal, with no light coming out.

Eve uses the stairs instead of flying off again. She wants to take her time going back. Indeed taking her time, yet someone was patiently waiting for her at the bottom floor of the apartment.

Grey whips his body from pacing back and forth by the lobby elevators, to see Eve step out from the stairs nearby. He quickly huffs over. "There you are! You can't just run off in the middle of the day using your powers! Someone could have seen that!"

Eve gives the agent a sour look. She dramatically places her hands on her hips and leaning to one side. "I used a cloaking spell before that. No one saw anything while I quickly fled. Why are you here? Need to know everything about what I was doing at all times, again?"

After Eve screamed in his face and ran off, Grey was over it with his partner. "Actually, yes. And, I'm sticking to my previous orders!"

Grey tries to settle his bitter temperament. He was angry, but he realized that wouldn't help. "Look, before you even got here, I was instructed to find out anything and everything you knew relating to your abilities. Ergo your multiple abilities and in-depth knowledge. Who taught you was definitely important to find out more. Because, we just want to understand it! We want to understand 'us', and what we bloody are! We don't mean to be intrusive, or make you feel caged, but we must know. You've been given more freedom since you've been cooperating this far... We only hoped you'd help us in return...."

Eve didn't know why she had to be the one to help them understand their powers. She didn't know a bit more than others as is, but she's not an expert, or fully on board with the agency. "You should have told me at some point. If the director knows, he should just spill it already. It would have been fine if he would agree as you've been. Not telling me makes it sound like you have more to hide, and more untrustworthy. If they know, they better not try to ruin it, if the agency just wants to understand then! They cannot just take things out of their environment that they work in, and use it for themselves! Watch what happens if you take the heart of that town, or dry it if it's magic! The wrong hands mean everything! And, unknowledgeable hands are just as bad."

Eve let's Grey understand exactly as an advocate there for the unspoken magicians and sorcerers still out there. She's not like the rest of the magicians, or agents for that matter. But, she understood how they coincided. "I know you think so highly of this agency, but I know the places that are protected and can practice with their powers freely! And, it is modern times! It's still functional at least for them! So, I'm going to be the advisor of any knowledge related to magic, and the oasis where I have learned a lot from. I will make it that no preserved places of magic are destroyed, other than just the oasis. Since, I'm the only one that can be representative for them outside of where they are. Only I can travel around, AND work here without chaos to ensue somewhere else. I will have to be involved in any situation that involves their pristine knowledge. I'll approve anything that helps you understand powers, and how to use them to better yourselves, AND the earth. As they should be...."

"Well said...." The Director steps up from sitting in the lobby, this time making sure his presence can't be ignored as the agents were busy arguing.

"I did have some insight, but still was not able to understand much of it. The places you've been to, I know they are very important to you. You have nothing to worry about as we weren't going to do anything to them. We might try to collect data and maybe some samples, if you would point them out to us. We need your knowledge for any of it. We know we wouldn't get your permission yet, but we promise not to go without your word. Since you like promises and holding one accountable, you have my direct word, that is an important one." The director smiles plainly, but he spoke about a serious proposal.

Eve places a hand to her heart. "As an advocate traveler, I've been given permission by some-places to enter. I must be on missions overlooking any ancient cultures. No excavations, no harming the delicate life."

The director nods. "Very well, we can have that arranged. You can accompany any search parties that research ancient artifacts and anomalies in the future. Otherwise, as an agent, you're to protect the one's not secured by us as well. We would like to have you on these trips as a guild to some you know of. And, be an advocate indeed for these places. But, for now, we want to hear from you about the places you've been and what you've learned."

Eve heavily breathes and thinks, conflicted. The director was good at bargaining for better solutions for both Eve, and the agency. "... As long as we all can be trusted, for the greater good. Then, we will do this together. For missions relating to magic, I'll be a great help to have. I will show where some libraries are, the shops and markets I've been to, and gather materials. And, where I've gotten my books. From plants, animals, people, and space, we will learn about the magician's recordings of these. I am a magician, I've practiced these with confidence. I've learned from the best knowledge, and helped keep it safe. With time and trust, we can be open to what the universe has for 'us'." At the end she holds her head higher. Bringing a promise and purpose to keep.

Director Oracle nods to Eve and turns to Agent Grey. "Very well, Maestro. Grey, make sure you learn anything you need for traveling with your new partner. I would assume it could be dangerous, new journeys, even for you."

Grey shifts his eyes between Oracle and Eve. "I've heard and 'seen' a whole lot already... I think I'd be fine, if Starlight here's going to be gilding the trek."

The director clasps his hands together and grins. "Well, with that said, we'll pick this back up down the road. I also came to say, you'll be getting some time off in two months to look at one of our largest animal sanctuaries. It's still for work, but possibly learning more about your tiger friend. Experts will talk to you later about that once they come back with details."

Eve is thrilled to hear at least her friends, that the agency knows of, are cleared and won't be seen as a threat to the S.O.U. "Sure! As long as Sam is alright, I'll comply."

The director nods as everyone is back on the right track. "Alright. Now, let's get you two back. Don't forget there's much more to do in the meantime." Oracle walks away and out the doors of the complex.

Things have now been left on a better note. At least Oracle has been true to his word. Grey is just now becoming more open with his partner. Things could go a lot smoother now. That's if Eve was still supporting the idea.

Once the director was the first to leave, Grey walks to the exit and looks over to Eve in question. "What more places do you have than just your desert-home?" He slightly scoffed, not thinking Eve's thought through everything just yet.

Eve follows,explaining her plan as she saw fit. "The desert-land isn't the only place with magical ingredients. We get imports for some remedies and spells. Many had to have known what we needed, and its use. We also sell some rare goods. Wherever a grand magician is, there's sure to be a town, or something left. And, many stay close to outlets of the earth's magic. There's more places with rare magic elements, magic civilizations are around a few. That's all I've really heard from my mentor. He's met a few, too!"

Grey whips his head, more surprised at his partner. "Wait, there's more than just your mentor?!"

Eve chuckles to his wonderment. Eve might have not mentioned everything to Grey yet as he thought. But, there were many details, big and small, unsaid, and explained. "Heh, yeah. Some have died off, but there's at least one grand magician for every class of magic. My mentor would be our first stop. Yamehl told me where some places are around, but that could still be hard to navigate blindly. I would have to get a map, and get more directions from 'Mehl when we get there. I'll also tell him when we're going to see him, so he expects us."

Agent Grey exhaled as plainly and bit nervously, as he presses the question. "Ah, so is this a happy ending after all?"

Eve then looks at Grey sternly. "I'm still not happy about earlier, and from the beginning. I know you had to keep things secret. I honestly understand, given how on edge I am. Our start, our current, everything is not trustworthy, because of how unpredictable it is, and you don't think about how this effects- you wouldn't, no one understands what the world feels! The universe is alive! You are an oblivious tick, even more minutes than that! You help suck the world dry of its good sometimes! Y'know that?!"

Eve started to get bitter over Grey keeping her in the dark, and thensome. Magic was like keeping a flame. Trap it and it extinguishes. But it could also react badly, given the right fuel. She didn't want magic to be destroyed, or corrupted. Magic was a flourishing and delicate thing.

Grey waves his hands for Eve to stop accusing him of being a 'tick', when he's not intentionally being one. He understands already well enough the importance of keeping magic safe. Because, he wanted to help protect it as well now. "Okay, okay! Enough, I'm sorry! Stop shouting insanely. I can't be forgiven for keeping some details from you, you've been nothing but honest with me. I've asked a lot from you. They were a part of my mission, but I was overtly interrogating you. But, you'd answer whatever questions I asked you. You even told your secrets to me. I should be repaying your gesture...."

Eve waves her fists. Her face scrunched up as she bitter shouted. "You should! If anyone needs to know everything I know, they should be able to be trusted in the first place, you grumpy old man!"

Grey gets in Eve's face, then breaks away. "Hey! Stop being so pissy. Don't try to pick a fight with me... We'll deal with this after work." He folds his arms together and huffs.

Eve argues as her partner's facing away. She places her hands on her hips and sassily adds. "I'm going to hide out with Sam in my apartment after work. You're not allowed over for food for now, either...."

Grey turns back to gawk at Eve. "I didn't want your bloody kindness- I wasn't asking! We will fix this. We're. Going. To... Sigh, I will try to fix this...." He puts a hand over his tired eyes and rubs his forehead. He doesn't know how, but he has to get Eve to be cooperative again.

Eve coldly pays little mind to Grey, and his brief self-talk to himself. "I will focus on what's good and will protect knowledge from getting into the wrong hands... You can fix whatever you'd like...." Eve walks briskly and coldly past Agent Grey out the apartments.

Grey has to rush to make it to the same elevator as Eve. When they stop on their floor, she bolts out to go all the way to her desk leaving Grey in the dust. He tiredly huffs and walks over to their desks.

Oracle walks from the break room with a cup of coffee to open his door. "Rough patch with your partner, Grey? I'm sure she'll come around. She's too nice to hate you, I know it." The Director smiled, going into his office. Grey just walks past the director's office to catch up with his partner.

Grey quickly rushes behind Eve again. He called out as she turns to face him. "Maestro... Can you please slow down? You're going to charge into someone."

Eve shakes her head and walks off. She grads stuff from her desk and her jacket. "No, I want to grab some things quickly, and work in peace and quiet...."

Grey tries to reason with Eve with her back turned. Worried if she'll snap like before. "Eve?.. M- Maestro, I don't know if that'll help as much if you just-"

Eve turns, having Grey suddenly look her in the eyes. "I don't know if I can do this right now, Grey. I think I need some time to look into things for myself...."

Grey watches her and stops following after she walks away again. He takes a tired sigh and tries to coolly compose himself. He knows she won't be upset forever. She couldn't if she was going to be working there and even going on research missions across the globe. It would be hard to hold a grudge, if they were going to keep on that.

"Oh... Ouch. Partner fed up with you already? Wouldn't be surprised." Grey then turns to a follow agent calling out to him. Agent Valkery walks up to Agent Grey, giving Grey with a snarky smile.

Grey barks at Valkery annoyed. Grey sighs as he explains, trying to brush the remark aside. "Shut it! I made a mistake. It's not like it's going to stay a problem... She's just angry at me."

Valkery chuckles at Grey's disregard. "You two made a pretty big scene not too long ago. She seems VERY angry. I heard you made an angel curse you out, heh." He toyed, referring to Eve.

Grey scoffs loudly and rolls his eyes. "Agent Maestro said ONE curse word, and all hell breaks loose, my god. Honestly, I don't have time, or the energy, for any of this."

Grey sighs into his hand, rubbing his face. "I was needing Eve to look at more information on a case with me, but I guess we'll be working a bit separately on this for now."

Grey forgot to be discreet when talking about Eve. Valkery caught his slip up. The name sounded nice as he hummed it out. "Eve... fitting name for the poor angel. Probably going to have to avoid her till she's calmer. Women can hold a long grudge, just be warned, haha."

Grey scoffed as he turns away to go back to his desk. He eyes Agent Valkery as he peers over his shoulder. "You're dismissed, get back to work already... I'll deal with this myself, later...." With that, Grey walks off.

___________________________________________________

After some time avoiding Grey, Eve tries to sneak over to her desk to look at anything else to do. She walks around the office. Making sure her partner is nowhere to be seen.

Once she's at the desk, Eve opens up her computer up, and starts looking at endless files to do, since she didn't want to work on the main one with Grey. She groans as she scrambles her hair. She couldn't blindly figure out how to solve anything, as hard as she was attempting too. "Galaxies, I can't freaking work right now...."

"Oh Miss Moonlight~...." A voice called out from behind Eve. She spins to see who it is, another thing she didn't want to deal with right now.

"I was hoping to see you again, being in the same workforce." Randle, or 'Agent Bolt', idols in front of the ex-idol. Eve looked like she was trying her best not to snap at the guy.

Eve just eyes him then turns away. "Well, I'm right here, and I'm doing something...."

Bolt's brow raises. "So, how about we play a quick game?"

Eve furrows her brows, then peers over at him. "A game?"

Bolt flashes his wild, vibrant eyes as Eve looks up for a moment at him in surprise. "Yes, try to beat me in the training room. One-on-one or highest points with dummies wins, whichever you want."

Eve puts her head in her hands. She then looks up sternly and claps her hands together. "Sigh... I already took my break today, so I don't have the time. I refuse."

Agent Bolt waves off Eve. He nudges her and keeps an inquisitive stare at Eve. "It's part of the building, we're supposed to train when we're not doing anything urgent. Just let loose a little and try to beat me. I'll give you another handicap...."

Eve groans annoyed. Tired of having some pressuring her to give in basically. "I don't compete. I'll train when I'm not busy with something, but I won't go out of my way to see who's stronger out of us. You scored higher than me, we will leave it at that." She looks down at her tablet and tries to focus at her desk now.

Agent Bolt slams a fist on Eve's desk. She slightly jolts as she looks up at him again. "Yeah, but you beat me in combat! I want to know how! Your handicaps make it so you can surpass even me!"

Eve just gives an unamused frown. "You need a chill-pill with the over-competitiveness right now. I don't care who's more powerful, than who makes the right decisions with it. Don't argue with me, I've done enough of that already today to be persuaded...."

Agent Bolt spazzes his arms out, knocking a stack of papers onto her desk, and scoffs. "Fine... You're so boring. It's no fun if you don't cooperate. It's just a fun little bet to see who's stronger. You could have asked me to do anything, if you won."

Eve doesn't look at him but grabs papers and grumbles as she puts them back. "I don't care about anything other than you getting away from my desk. I'm trying to work."

Agent Bolt quickly turns away and waves as he walks off. "Fine. Goodbye, Moon. Haha, hope you'll stop by training to spar with me sometime..."

Eve turns away from her self-established rival agent. She looks to her desk and switches her focus back to files. "Hmph, I won't. I'll just ask my partner Grey to be my punching bag, if I need to...."

"And, what about using me as a punching bag? Think you can spar with me, then you're mistaken." Eve turns from her desk to see Grey stopping behind her. He places his fists to his hips, and sneers arrogantly.

Eve chuckles, she wasn't afraid of Grey. "Heh, didn't say you'd hit back, that I'd just be hitting you, like a punching bag. I think I could hold up against you a bit, I'm a lot stronger than I appear, hehe~."

He looks down at her walking closer, to her but also his own desk. "Yeah? I could beat the training dummies you've used with one arm tied. You're not as skilled as I am with physical hand-to-hand."

Eve toys on more, challenging him. "Then, you better hope my powers aren't as strong as your natural abilities, heh."

Grey sits beside her. "Heh, so do you feel better, now that you're imagining beating me up? Might just have to stick to your imagination, however." He then breathed a chuckle. Making light of their fight.

Eve shrugs her shoulders. "Still mad at you, but I guess I'm done thinking about blasting a ring the size of this floor directly at you. I have work and creating protection plans to do!"

Eve excitedly exclaimed the last part with her hands out sending glitter to fall to her sides. She was already getting into a better mindset. She didn't know what to do, but still was determined.

A side of Agent Grey's lip curves up. He talks more plainly, but he means sincerity. "Heh, good to see you're still up to working, but we should stick to assignment at hand. I just wanted to say sorry again, and will communicate more from now on..."

Eve starts typing away on a new document "Fine. Good, actually. Then, we can get back to work and hope nothing bad happens. And... with time maybe I'll be open about more secrets too."

Grey looks to his own monitor, but only hoping for the best as well. As long as it's something that doesn't set Eve off, they'd probably be alright. "Right...." He breathed, then went on with working, silently, with his partner.

____________________________________________________

Eve finally started to work with Grey on their ongoing mission. After her dramatic leave, she mostly was thinking about how to protect magical safe-havens, if the agency cooperated. But, at least watching him work, she was actually talking to Grey again, just a bit more. After the tech hall tracked the bugs from the secret base, back to the source, the partners looked for the identity.

The found one name pop in their system, and so they searched for any records and a location. Grey opens their records, from his computer, with Eve sitting next to him to look as well. There was a moment where Grey's eyes stared at their file. Then, he slumped into his seat, giving a tired sigh.

Eve gets closer to read the file. What she only assumed was a discrepancy, the identity was marked deceased. They had been deceased for almost two years. "Wait... it says they've been dead. What does this mean?"

Agent Grey explains it to her. "It means, they encrypted someone else's information, and are using that. We found the right source, just not the identity or group." Grey takes his stuff and the files. Eve watches him as he gets up and starts to walk away. She didn't know what to do, so she sat there for a moment wide-eyed and confused.

Grey coolly turns back to Eve. He calls out for her to follow. "Come on, we have a dead end looking at that name. Will find them. We need to hurry if they're using or selling information."

Eve rushes to get her things and follow. Grey passes the files to Eve, and she hugs them along with her coat. "Sigh... Let's get tech back, with this name to run again. We'll pick this up tomorrow."

Grey walks over to Eve as she's watching the sky turn cloudy and grey. It seemed late, even as they got to leave a half an hour early. Thanks, to the dead end, and the many arguments today for the two partners, the day just felt off. She looks out to the doors, where it was suddenly trickling rain. It had already been getting dark, now it was much darker out early. Eve found it to be a bittersweet sight, especially after the tiring day.

The two walk out and stand just under the cover the building had from the rain. Grey was looking up and then turned to Eve speaking. "You need an umbrella. How do you not have one?" He opens and extends one he had on his own, to shield both of them.

Eve doesn't get anything closer. She shrugs and holds her hands up. "Why bring one if it's just a short walk?"

Grey scowls at Eve, just out of habit and his natural expression. It's not like he wanted to show any sign of happiness either when speaking. "Well, you could still get sick if it was pouring out."

Luckily for her, it was downpouring heavily. But if it was, Eve would love to watch and hear it for a while where she was standing. Hearing the sounds of getting slightly louder, and the sound of cars and people going through large puddles. 

Grey looks over Eve's shoulder and points to a convenience-store. "... Go stop by the corner and get an umbrella. Let's talk." He drew out almost quieter than the sound of rain.

Eve still put on a smile as she rolled her eyes at Grey. "Fiiiine, hehe!" She runs off. Grey watches her, then sighs as he walks towards her direction.

The two agents walk along the sidewalks to the park. Eve sighs heavily. "Today was so frustrating... Do days like this happen at work?" She holds her umbrella between her arm, propping it over her shoulder strolling along.

Grey keeps his umbrella upright in his hand as he walks beside Eve. "... It's kind of a difficult case, it happens. However, keeping secrets from you will not happen again. I'm sorry, for making a promise that couldn't have been made..."

Grey hums with the deep gruffness in his voice. "Hmph... I'm not certain, but I think I know part of why they assigned me as your partner. The director wanted to talk with you often. I'm supposed to monitor you. That means, you have two of the most powerful telepaths in the unit. Lying never works on us, people can only stretch the truth enough for it to be deciphered, or found out."

Eve shakes her head, annoyed and slightly dumbfounded. She didn't want more reminders of what to be on edge about. "You guys... sigh, are so annoying. Remember Grey, this information and power could change the world for the better, or for worse...." 

Grey waves a hand up and gestures his palm out to Eve. "I get it, we're not going to do anything. You heard the director."

Eve narrows her vision back and forth, to Grey, and off to the side. "... Just make sure he won't do anything, since you trust the director more...."

Grey speaks up, almost growling from being tired. He betrayed her once. Eve is probably just stressing it more into him not to be cross with her. "Fine... Better off talking to him upfront. You won't know unless you stress the details."

Eve looks away as she plainly reasons. "I'll think about it...." It goes quiet, besides rain hitting the umbrellas, and the outside world, still buzzing. The sound of the city rain was almost tranquil. The two partners were silent for a moment as they start to turn back to the apartments. The needed talk had already helped.

They walk across the street, and suddenly, Grey runs into a set of doors close to them as soon as they stepped onto the sidewalk. Displays of floral arrangements sitting behind the shop's window catches Eve's eye. Grey quickly walks back out with a white flower in his hand.

Eve still looks surprised and still as Grey comes back out. "Ah- A flower?" She bumbled.

He grips the flower tightly, not exactly how one should handle a delicate flower. He was so fed up but really trying to work something out with Eve. "Sigh, this is so dumb... But, you gave me a flower as a peace offer last time. Now that I'm promising not to keep anymore secrets from you, I want to show you I mean sincerity too..."

Grey holds it close to Eve's face, and she hesitantly takes it from under her nose. "No giving away this one. Take it, or whatever, so we can start being even. I'm still due to pay you back for some meals, too." His face was expressionless, as he's not one for being expressive, as is. Yet, Grey shows kindness now and again, like now.

Eve holds the flower gingerly. Looking down at the peace offer, and then back at Grey with a genuine smile. "Thank you, Grey. I promise not to try to fight, or keep secrets from you. I hope we can do a lot of good together..." Eve breathes tiredly, but a curved grin stays on her face as they continue walking back to the apartments.

The dawn of a new day began. Eve's first day as an agent had officially started. Although Eve was nervous, she still ate breakfast and played with Sameer. She even cloaked the both of them to go for a small walk around the block before she had to head out. She takes a small trip to the building near the apartments.

The S.O.U. was a huge office building, or so it mostly seemed. Given its one-way glass, special floors that were definitely not all offices, and underground floors almost as large as the building was tall. It was no ordinary office, with no ordinary apartments next to it. Not to mention a few buildings around the block, and all of New York City that were specially for the S.O.U.

Eve walks in and meets with the front desk to check in. As she was going up to a receptionist, she saw Agent Grey walking towards her from the elevators. Eve turns, and he smirks at her. He tries to get things moving. Since she was early, they could start now. "So, are you ready, Maestro?" He asked.

Eve huffs with a smile being raised. "As ready as I'll ever be."

Agent Grey passes Eve papers stapled together tightly. The thick stack making the staples barely hang on, perfect. At least Eve might have an unused binder, if they don't provide one. Grey walks off, and Eve follows his back to where he just came from, to the elevators. "Good. Welcome to your first day. There's your directions. That booklet has all the rules and answers you'll need."

They go up and Agent Grey continues to walk and talk about the area as they pass. They go over to the offices and stand in front of a row of desks in the corner. "Here's going to be our desks, yours obviously the emptier one." They stop beside two desks at the nearest corner of other desks lining in large rows.

Grey points to a doors on the opposite side of their row of desks. "That over there is a hall for training, gym use, gun and weapon practice. The door beside that, is the hall to the smaller infirmary, and a recreational area. Behind us in the center, elevators and the break room. Other side of that, more desks..." He points to every space of the large office. Everything could be seen except for the walled break room in the center, but it was noted.

Then, Grey turns his attention back to where they came before. He briefly explains. "And, the end hall that leads to the main elevators, our department's administration hall, and the Director's office. And, that's just our floor." He breathes out a tired chuckle.

As they walk around the large room, Grey points out the middle elevators that were a one-way entry to a few more floors of different offices. Grey goes on, not looking but talking to Eve. He assumes his partner is full of questions right by now. "If you're thinking what I'm thinking, this place does have many elevators and stairwells. It's purposely built like a maze. Many long ways to some places, multiple entries or just one, and even some dead ends. Your manual has a map, probably should memorize any places you need to get to."

Eve reads a few pages of the booklet. She's concentrating and nodding. Grey looks at her, it seemed Eve wasn't as overwhelmed as he suspected. He chuckles and raises his brow. "Think you got the layout?" He challenged with his voice.

Eve looks up and smirks. "That's probably going to be the easiest part of the job."

Grey breaths a laugh and goes back to showing off the agency. "Heh, I definitely think so too."

Eve looks at everything on the page, and around her. She then stares at the pages with a map, but taps a finger to her chin humming. She interrupts with a question. "Hm, this is a pretty big building. Where only in the center... I'm assuming stuff on the map not marked are secret floors?"

Agent Grey shrugs. "In a way, most of them are only for higher authorities. They're more important having unmarked, in case trespassers or an attack. This is the central building the unit owns internationally. Many would say, it's the most important base."

Eve nods quickly. No further questions came to mind. Eve just had to learn, and do as she's told. "Okay, well, I guess I'll memorize what I'll need."

Agent Grey eyes her, but then assumes she's sure. He had no idea how to mentor a new recruit, besides yelling like on the field in the past. Grey hopes Eve will be flexible enough to jump into field work, and investigations quickly. All the while not screwing up, on his part teaching, and her part listening. "Good. For the most part, when you're not off in the lab, just stick by me." He trails off after that thought to the main elevators and the hallway.

Eve follows as Agent Grey walks off to the somewhat familiar with just from a few visits. Elevators open and people get out. Eve and Grey walk past people, as one person quickly turns her attention to Grey in surprise.

A loud, woman's voice calls over to them. "Hey, Grey! Who's this? The new girl?" She eyes both of them, Eve more inquisitively.

Agent Grey huffs as figures walk towards them. He gruffly answers. "She's one of many 'new girls' here, Blare..."

"But, I mean THE new girl. The one that's got multiple powers or something. Your damn partner that's assigned to you, Grey. Introduce us!"

Grey rolls his eyes and scowls at the others. He waves a hand to everyone, tiredly and quickly introducing them so they can leave. "My god... Agent Valkery, Graham, sigh... and Agent Blare." Grey rolls his eyes at the woman that he picked last to be introduced. He gestures to Eve. "This is Agent Maestro. She'll be working with me from now on."

The three agents eye Eve. Their was something interesting between Eve looking at the set of eyes, and the characters that matched. Each had a primary color. Blare had distinct red eyes. She wore a red blazer to match. She was short but definitely had a lot of flair to her. Agent Valkery had a yellow glow to him. His hair, eyes, and tie were a bright yellow. His skin was a sunny, olive complexion. Agent Graham wore a dark blue suit and glasses frames of a same color. His hair and skin were dark, yet his eyes were a sky blue. More icy and Eve's sapphire.

This group of agents, and ability users, to Eve seemed natural. It was refreshing, especially seeing many recruits in the same black or dark attire on occasions for combat. People must have gravitated to colors that resemble their powers as she did. In reality, it was a physically vibrant office. Many liked to dress how they wished as long as it was office appropriate. Plus, vibrantly colored hair, eyes, skin, and whatever other details were naturally part of their unique traits.

The sunny male named Agent Valkery places his hands on his sides. He marvels at the sight. "Gotta say, I'm surprised you're taking the partner thing so seriously. I thought you hated the idea."

Grey growls at them and looks away. "Hmph, I have, to for my job, or else I'm considered 'unreliable' to work with others...."

Given, if Agent Grey would ever be considered the best with his peers. He wasn't unreliable as he was unfriendly to coworkers. Agent Blare keeps curiously eyeing Eve. Blare shows Eve, by pointing her thumb at Grey. "See? That's the thing about him, Maestro. He's the office stickler. Aaaall about following rules and doing everything by himself. He can get a lot scarier. But, I bet someone as skilled as him has never learned about lightening up and having fun."

Grey stares at Blare with a death-glare. Although she's trying to ignore it by turning her head to Eve, away from Grey, she still felt his stare from beside her. Eve tilts her head slightly and giggles. "Hehe, I think I've picked up on that a bit." She smiles warmly, keeping from laughing. At least she's not the only one Grey's cold around.

Grey shouts and they seemingly ignore him. "Hey! Don't encourage her behavior!!"

Grey gets more pissed when he sees Blare even places an arm draped over Eve. "So, what can you do? Ability wise." Blare asks.

Grey leans over to Eve, and growls again as he takes Blare's arm off her partner's shoulder. He burns a hateful glare at the other agent. Eve tries to quickly defuse the tension between agents. "My ability is starlight! My ability ties to the stars' power and properties. I mainly just can make things glow. But... I never knew it could be useful for things, other than to show off, heh."

"Light, cool. I can use fire." Said Blare. Eve could see that, even with just her fiery personality and code name alone.

Eve then jumps up and excitedly beams. "Oh, neat! Actually, I can use a bit of fire too, at least control it."

Agent Blare brings her hands up in surprise. "Oh! So, you DO have multiple powers?" She points to her discovery.

Eve leans to one side and waves a hand. She even looks like she's wondering as well. "I just have a lot of unknown knowledge about powers. I got to a point where I made my ability stronger but was also able to harness other abilities. I have these tools and books I use for different casts."

Blare wonders, then jumps and asks away with whatever was popping in her head. "Really? What are they?! Never heard of that before- gasps!! Could you show us some then?!" She bombards Eve with questions before she could even answer.

Grey was getting annoyed with how Blare was pressuring Eve. Grey growls at her more ferociously. "Agent Blare...."

Blare jumps and tries to smile past her cold sweat. "H- hey now, I'm just curious... Can we see something? Like, how about a book, maybe?"

Grey coldly responds on Eve's behalf. He crosses his arms, tilts his head up to look down at them sternly. "No, she will not show you the books. They're written in different languages anyways."

Agent Blare looks at Grey. With sass towards him, she asks. "How'd you know then?!"

Grey looks away aloof and unperturbed. He sternly vocalized. "I've seen them. I had to inspect all her belongings that involved abnormal properties before she even came here. Books were just one of many things unfamiliar to me in her possession." His eyes wander to Eve, still confused about many things.

Agent Graham jokingly coos. "Ooh, not even Grey knows everything. That's a first."

Agent Grey snaps at Graham. "Hey! I never claimed to know everything. I actually just pay attention to things. Unlike you lot..."

Blare tries to nonchalantly lean over to Eve. "Hey, Maestro. When you get a break, IF Grey will let you have a break, have lunch with us!"

Blare shifts over and nudges Valkery. He jumped at the realization and grins, nodding his head. Grey cuts in before Eve could answer. "Shouldn't you three be doing work?" He scowls at them. They all feel his cold glare physically gives them chills.

Blare turns and scoffs at Agent Grey. She turns to Eve and smiles. "Whatever... We'll see you guys around. After she gets comfortable here, don't just hog her, Grey!! I wanna get to know her too!" She looks at Grey again, and snaps walking off.

The partnered agents watch them all leave. Eve looks to Grey, who held a hand in place on his throbbing temples to subside him. He exhales tiredly, then looks at her. Grey just warns. "Don't get subjected to the shenanigans of those three. They're some of the most annoying pests here. Even if they beg, don't give in to their devilish antics... Also, don't skip lunches. You get an hour break, it can be split into smaller periods, but it's always up to an hour. You have plenty of time. Since you might want a breather, maybe we can get something to eat, as a meal IOU."

Eve giggles. She didn't mind the idea, but it wasn't as fun as making it herself. "I was going to eat when I go to check on Sam."

Both Grey and Eve spend the rest of the next few hours at their desks. He shows her how to use the terminal and explains most of how to file reports. She started looking at many open files for cases needed to be solved, organizations to be inspected, and people needed to be found.

After Eve got lost looking at files, Grey turns to one they were assigned by the director that morning. It was a base case. One where top secret information was kept and recorded. If there was any reason the S.O.U. were to be involved, something bad must had happened. Grey goes on explaining to how they usually go about dealing with such secretive missions.

Eve's shoulders relax as she turns to Grey, after a long silence, finally asking a question. "So, about the case.... Do we really have to handle a totally different threat to a secret government base?"

Grey nods, looking at his screen but making glances to his partner. "Yes, and these may pop up on occasion, actually. All agencies, even more than ability wielders, get attacks and threats to take or expose any hidden or protected secrets."

Eve looks over at Grey and tilts her head. She raises the question. "Do we get to know the secrets though?"

Grey looks almost annoyed at Eve. He tried to pay no mind to how foreign her question seemed. "We ARE a secret, and we'll have to deal with a lot of other secrets as well. It's nothing so unordinary after a while. It's definitely something no one else gets the privilege of. Only the F.B.I and C.I.A have access close to ours, but the things even they shouldn't know, we deal with. You've heard of Area 51?"

Eve nods in response. Grey continues. "Well, there's at least more than just 51 of their specially marked bases. That's a base for keeping unidentified objects. The number of bases we know of is all of them. What others get close to, is almost all. Almost..." He emphasized. "Bases fold a slim category, but still need lots of space and security. One of the other bases got a threat this time, and we must treat it before anything bad happens...."

Eve leans on her desk, suddenly tired. "Crazy...." She peers up on occasion, looking back down at the files and flipping though each page.

Grey nods as he keeps his eyes to the computer. "I would agree. Remember, not everyone can handle things beyond our comprehension. Some things we can't risk getting out. This base we're going to see holds just a fraction of rare and special items."

Eve thinks of what questions they had unanswered, or just hidden away. If the S.O.U. manages all the secrets the world holds now, they maybe holding onto things of the past as well. "... Hm. Is there a place where people keep track of odd plants and earths?"

Agent Grey peers over at Eve. A sudden realization made his eyes scowl in question. "They might, why-... Do you think there's plants you've learned about from your books before?"

Eve nods. "Mhm... I just wonder if they've seen this stuff before too, just hidden right under their noses. Powers involve a lot more than just the people that possess them. You might not know what something makes with just one, or a few ingredients, and some missing instructions."

If he was correct, she could help answer more of their anomalies and mysterious findings, and questions they had. "Hm. Okay, that's quite interesting. I'll have to tell the director more in a further report." It goes silent again, all office ambiance still filled the air.

It wasn't after hours of studying, and sitting looking at the case, till Grey suddenly rolled out of his seat and stood. That made Eve suddenly stop too.

Grey then stretches from sitting in a chair for a consistent period of time. He turns and peers down at his new partner. "Go on and you can take your lunch now. We'll talk about investigating this case, later." He explains.

Eve hops up from her desk as well. The day was going by so quickly and smoothly. How it could be was unexpected to Eve. "Okay. Would you like lunch as well?"

Grey turns to her. "Only if I help make something. You should be less rushed on your feet during your break."

Grey slowly leads, and Eve follows him out. Eve giggles, and almost sings while speaking. "You know... I could just use statues to cook for me if I wanted to~."

Grey rolls his eyes. He keeps partially facing Eve as they make their way to the elevators. "... Hm. Wouldn't using spells still take up your 'energy'?"

Eve giggles and nods, confirming. "Yes, and actually I know that using my abilities makes me tired. I definitely felt that during training sometimes, but I've actually learned this before...."

Eve suddenly looks down and whispers shyly. Her hands knitted together for a moment. She perks up again, giggling again, and then explaining. "Uh... 'Someone' who gave me a spell book once, told me that there's three different energies. Physical, mental, and spiritual, that part is common. 'Mana' is also not a rare understanding, but it's a little different, hehe. A mana potion is like a magician's version of a sugar-rush, then the crash. Powers resemble in almost all parts of a being but can be felt from overusing one's energy or the other. Since powers make up a large part of the known variables, it's spiritually draining just to believe too, literally, hehe."

Grey plainly asks. He stops in the hall but doesn't send an elevator up. He instead raises a brow at Eve. "How in a way 'spiritual'?"

Eve looks at Grey and thinks. It was a difficult question as it was hard to word. It was more of a feeling than an understanding. "Magic is also a part of your spirit. Powers are a force beyond just this universe. Magic is also practiced as a religion, and belief... The person who told me this said they could even see my soul, and that it was similar to theirs. Souls are of many common beliefs." Eve then places a hand to her heart. She bows her head, hoping it would explain enough. But, avoiding saying any names.

Agent Grey tilts his head slightly, keeping a sharp expression, but he was intrigued. He sees this 'certain someone' knows so much interesting information, as he learns. It's no doubt her mentor also could feel and see things unlike others, like nature for one. Souls were a philosophical idea to many. Seeing one, for Grey at least, would prove a lot of the mysteries of the world. Even if the answers were just as confusing as before.

Eve keeps her hand on her heart, gesturing to herself. "Mine is a star and a radiant aura when seen, but the star is from beyond our galaxy."

Grey could no longer follow. He tries to brush this odd information off till he processes what Eve's actually saying. He was still stone cold but had to recalculate. "Oka-... What?... I... don't know what to ask, but I know I should be. Or... maybe, I really shouldn't." Grey suddenly is dumbfounded of what to ask first. A few being why she knows that, how, from where exactly, and whatever there was to question.

Eve waves a finger in a circle and a small, sprinkling trail of light follows her fingertip. "I won't try to explain the otherworldly parts of magic. Hehe, but in short, it's just some things we can see, and some we might just believe. But, belief makes us stronger and more naturally determined regardless. Belief may or may not make one's power stronger..."

Grey points to himself. "And, how can you 'see' things like souls? Can you see mine?"

Eve waves her head unsure of a blunt answer. "Not as good- uhm... as the person who saw mine. I can try to, but I need a spell to just see the aura part. Only sometimes can I see souls..."

Grey takes a long pause, and then utters. "... Can you try?"

Eve nods and closes her eyes. She bows her head and inhales deeply. When she looks up and opens her eyes, a gust of wind blows around her and at Grey. He didn't know what, but he felt like he heard something in the wind, like a voice. Grey shifts his eyes around the middle of the hallway to see if anything appears but nothing was there.

"Oh wow!" Eve snaps Agent Grey out of his thoughts back to her odder task at hand. She was looking at him intriguingly with her eyes lit brightly blue. As excited as she was, he didn't have a good feeling about it. "Whoa~! It's different from the person who gave me the book. Yours is purple, and a bubble... It's inside, all around you but... it seems cracked a bit."

"What?" Grey jolts with his eyes wide. He doesn't even understand what any of that meant. Eve looks at him but just sees the purple, transparent wall around him. It was the mystic powers that were making some sort of barrier around him, but the top was particularly open. Jagged edges and floating broken pieces created a small opening to see the top of Grey's face a bit clearer.

Eve looks puzzled as she tries to explain. She gets closer inspecting it. Almost looking as if she was going to touch the invisible shard in front of Grey. "I don't know, but mine and the... 'bookkeeper' had radiant rings. Theirs was gold. It was much brighter and bigger than my white light. But, I thought all were like rings. You have a color surrounding you. Almost completely but the top is broken somehow, yet nothing radiant is coming out of it. It's like it's... hollow inside."

That didn't help with the agent's worries. It only made him more confused and slightly alarmed. "... Okay, I think I've had enough weird information for today. Let's just get the hell out of here, so you can't do any more 'magic'." He huffed.

Eve speaks up cheerfully, her eyes going back to normal. "Right, hehe. So... lunch? I'll make us something, if you join me and Sam later." Her eyes start to sparkle, and she clasps her fingers together under her chin.

Grey does a double-take away towards the elevators and back at Eve after a realization. "Ye- Wait, I never agreed, did I? I thought I was to help you cook?"

Grey crosses his arms and huffs. Now definitely directing his attention fully to his sneaky partner. He barked. "You could be looking at files, while I help you with whatever you need help making. Nothing's wrong with looking at work, till further instructions..."

At least that was technically a lunch break. Eve beams delighted with new information. She waved a hand agreeing, and going along with it. She may or may not make Grey do much for help. "Alrighty. By the way, I'll talk to someone in the lab, or at least someone here about the aura trick later. If you don't want to talk more about this again, hehe~."

Grey grabs one of his arms and rubs it. "I honestly feel a bit unnerved and I don't know why. So, I'm going to move on and not question it."

Eve nods, but ushers closer to Grey. "Psst... read." Eve whispers. She lightly brushed Agent Grey's hand.

'If you are concerned about what the cracked aura means, I can ask my mentor.'

Grey heard her, even though of course, she didn't physically say it. He gets close to Eve, cupping her ear and whispering as quietly as possible. "I can't talk back to you the same way. This will wait for another time. The outer-galactic thing was also what was unnerving. And another thing... get better at cover ups. You're still terrible at hiding your expressions."

Eve was trying not to speak so freely around Grey while they were at the agency. That, deemed difficult for Eve. They both could see that was a bit of an issue. Especially since the two held information from the agency. Eve had to start conversing a lot more cautiously.

__________________________________________________

They make their way up to Eve's apartment, so that they can cook and do a small work review. It was two in one. Because, it wasn't effectively a break, or work. She began cooking, but Grey was right beside her helping. He starts taking things out of her hands, so he could assist with something. He knew he had to be more stern with Eve to help her. He also quizzes her a bit about the agency, and the mission.

When everything is plated, they eat, and Sameer sits beside Eve as always. He may not be hostile with Grey, but then again, Sam just had mixed feelings about the agent being there. The agent was the man that made his friend sad and scared before. Sameer doesn't think Eve's gotten fully over it, so he hasn't forgotten either.

Once they finished up and break was almost over, Eve hugs Sameer, and heads back out with Grey. They walked, and she was humming along, happily singing to herself.

Now that Eve had even more energy after eating, the first thing Agent Grey did when they got back was make her go on an errand for him. So he can get some peace and quiet for a moment. At least for a small moment.

Eve rushes merrily though floors back her way to Grey's and hers offices. She carried stacks of files. She hums about, while gleefully making her way through the unit. She's singing where to turn and what she's passing by. A funny way to memorize, but always helped her navigate.

"Hey! Maestro! Over here!" A stranger's voice calls out. Eve turns, and sees too many people I see if someone was shouting for her. Not until one was bounding right towards her.

Whoever they were, they had green hair, stringy and partly masking darker green eyes. They had soft features, and freckles all over their pale face. She had definitely never seen them before, but they called Eve by her agent name, and somehow knew what she looked like.

She points to herself, balancing a stack of files in her other hand. "O- oh? Pardon?"

The man stands in front of Eve, and he nods. "Hi! Val' told me about you. You're the new girl that's supposed to be partnered with Grey? First off, I'm sorry to hear, heh. "

Eve gives a small chuckle. "It's not the worst, I guess. I'm just on my way back with some files he needed."

The agent's eyes and smile grew wider. "Ah, getting the hang of office-bumping? I wouldn't assume, like Grey, you know how to get around here just yet. At least, for him to ask you to go off without him, that is."

Eve shook her head. She knows the floors decent enough. She even made up songs with melodies stuck in her head to remember where to go. She's not used to it as she's remembering quickly off the top of her head. "I've been on a few floors already for different reasons. I've seen where the record hall is, Grey showed me today."

Then the agent seemed to relax his energetic stature. It seemed she was running off quickly before he had stopped her. She wasn't just frantically, but excitedly walking back. Apparently, Eve's not that nervous about a big, complicated building. "Good to see you got a good handle on this. What do you do on other floors?" The man asked.

Eve looks down and shuffles her feet a bit anxiously. She hoped it wouldn't bombard her with further questions. "I take new samples to the science hall and research team to analyze. I also showed the other sectors my past work. It's kind of just relevant to new abilities...."

The agent looks to Eve a little impressed. He nudges her but tries to not knock over her files. "Wooow. Are you a higher up in training?"

Eve tilts her head, honestly confused. "Excuse me?" She didn't know exactly what he meant. He realized that Eve had no idea, figuring he was wrong.

He still explained, in case she were to be interested. "Oh, I mean, you're still new, but it's someone who's super skilled who will most likely take the places of the board, or even be the next director someday. Most go to all the different halls to get involved and then promoted into more administrative positions."

Eve shakes her head. "No, I'm not. It's not what I intend, but I'm not sure if the 'higher ups' themselves had more in mind...." She looked down now wondering what intentions the agency could have.

The man holds a hand out to shake. He leans in closer to Eve with a charming smile. "Oh. Well, just from hearing about you, it sounds like you could. I'm Klyde by the way, with a 'Kay-lyde'. Holler if you ever need any help, newbie."

Eve holds her papers still balanced closely to her as she extends her hand to formally introduce herself. She calmly hums. "Ah... Thanks. I'm Maestro and it's good to meet you."

Klyde smiles at Eve, delighted. "Likewise. Hey, since you're new. There's usually a party for the new recruits at a local nightcl-"

"Maestro?! There you bloody are! I thought you got lost." Grey shouts as he walks over.

Eve whips her head to Grey, eyes wide. Then, she nervously chuckles. "... Grey? Oh, I'm sorry, heh. I got sidetracked for a moment."

Klyde waved and quickly did a finger-gun at Grey in one motion. He innocently smiles at the scowling agent. "Sorry Grey, I was just chatting to the new girl. I didn't mean to distract her."

He glares at them annoyed. He then scoffed and started to walk away. "Well it's enough chit-chat for now, come on E- a- already...." He stammered.

Eve rushed over, and turned to smile at Agent Klyde. She catches up to Grey as they get back to their desks. Grey doesn't turn but huffs. "Don't let people distract you. People will probably talk to you more whenever you're not by me. I know, I'm not one for socializing but it's annoying how everyone just naturally flocks to you, and wants your damn appraisal already...."

Eve giggles and gives a shrug. She sets the files down on her desk. "People can be simple. They like people who look nice and have a reason to talk to. Helps them communicate more with the people they see often." She nonchalantly hums.

Grey doesn't sit on his chair. He turns his body to Eve and crosses his arms. "Hmph, yes but it's different when it's like moths drawn to a flame. Everyone gravitates to you."

Eve can't confirm or deny his statement just yet. She had been in the past, but now she's in a new environment. One where no one knows who she is, except that she's 'powerful', and from the looks of it, pretty and fair. "Hehehe, can't help it. I'm sure if you were a little warmer, people would come up to you too."

Grey rubs his temps, and ruffle sweeps his hair away. He growls. "I 'once' did fine with everyone. Now I need a lot of space. People only talk to me for work, or to purposely annoy me. They've always, but it's gotten worse after many years here. They just do it to tick me off now...."

Eve breathes. "Ah... Silly youths, disturbing their elders, hehe~" She teased.

Grey growled at Eve, but then quickly retracted. He then leaned back and scowled sinisterly. "Hey-... Well, I'm technically younger than your 'crush', heh."

"Eep-!" Eve yanks Grey's arm and pulls him forward to face her. She stares at him with the widest, most terrified eyes. She mentally shouts.

'GREY! GREY!! OKAY, SORRY FOR TEASING BUT NO SAYING THAT IN HERE!! WHAT IF SOMEONE HEARS?!?!'

Grey retracts himself from Eve's grasp. He holds one hand to his ear, as if he had been deafened. "Jeez!... You're louder in your head- Ahem, sorry too. I just couldn't help myself, heh. Hahaha...." Even though that was a bit painful for him, it was the payback he wanted for the grey-hair comment. It definitely brought a smile to his face.

Eve puts her hands on her hips and rolls her eyes. "Okay, funny~ How old are you even?!" She frantically waved her fist in anger questioning.

Grey flashes a toothy smile, which Eve's never seen him smile with teeth often, if not ever. Or, laugh more than a short chuckle. He holds a hand up to cover it a bit. "Hahaha, heh 30, almost 31. I might look older, but I'm not by much."

Eve thrashed her arms about and shouted at her wits end. "When did you even start here?!"

Grey coos softly. "Technically, at 18. I was in special schooling, long before taking the academy training, like you recently have been through... And, my hair has always been grey, even when young... I was more sociable, but a bit stand-offish. Even more so now." He briefly mentions. But, no matter how much Grey explained, he'll always be looked at as the grouchy 'office geezer'.

Eve teases with a chuckle. "How odd to think you're my superior. You've got a bit more experience than me here, but not with powers, hehe~."

Grey growls at Eve. His sneer was gruff and annoyed. "I have a LOT more experience, mind you... I'm still a superior even to most agents. Don't get mixed up just because you'll be my partner now. The board probably wanted someone new so I can 'train' them to be a suitable partner for me again."

Eve laughs at the idea. Eve didn't know if the agency knew how well that had been going naturally. "Heh, do you think they'd really choose me for that?"

"Sigh... Back to work. I got the call that we'll have a jet to board soon. I don't think they really have it in mind, as much as just trying something new perhaps. But... it's the director's direct order. So, I cannot question it. They have their reasons..."

"A jet?" Eve tilts her head in question of the first part, not getting past that.

Grey might have forgotten to mention, but he plays it off teasing. "You think we'll be driving halfway across the country just to look at a base? It's a speedy way to commute. We'll spend less than an hour traveling. An hour, more or less, at a government facility, then be back later tonight."

Eve didn't realize they were traveling so soon. She didn't know if she was going to have to be doing this frequently. "Well, as long as Sam isn't alone for long, alrighty then. Let's work...."

_____________

With that, the agents were escorted to the roof and a small black jet was waiting for them. They land at a base in the barren dry land. It looked small, an odd white building in the middle of nowhere. Regardless, Grey mentions to Eve that it's an underground base. Only the first floor was on ground-level. Eve and Grey both wait for their identification to be cleared through the system before they proceed.

The wait at security to clear them so they could proceed. It wasn't so bad of a place that it even had windows looking outside. The evening glow illustrated the room. Eve looks around, and then to Agent Grey "This looks normal so far... Does it get to a point where it doesn't?"

Grey briefly nods. "Yep... We'll just take this elevator down with a clearance key we have. We need to talk to the lead scientists in charge of the research and storage. Think you can handle a few scientists, Maestro?"

Eve jumps up excited. Confidently she speaks. "My kinda crowd, I'll talk to them!"

Agent Grey waved a hand to dismiss Eve's eagerness. "Hold off on the conversation till I let you. These people already know about us but we need to show our identification and our powers if they ask, to confirm ourselves. Only with people of high clearance, no one else should even know who we are. We do not expose our powers anytime else to people."

Eve then nods calmly. "Alright...."

They get buzzed in and sent down to a lower floor, somewhere in the middle going down. Everything became less warm and white, now cold and grey. They walk past towering machines, and odd laboratory equipment.

The agents walk over to a group of scientists that were huddled together looking at a tablet in the middle of the large room. Agent Grey coolly waves for their attention, and then flashes his badge. "Good evening. I'm Special Agent Grey, and this is Agent Maestro. We're here to handle the alert."

The one scientist in the middle speaks up. "Ah! Thank goodness. Follow me, I'll show you the room." He says and all the scientists turn to follow as well.

Eve turns her head to Agent Grey as they walk behind the group of scientists. "What does that mean?"

Grey calmly answers as the tail behind the group silently. "We suspect someone leaked information about projects that are handled on this certain floor. It's not the highest level. People can possibly infiltrate lower levels, but it's difficult. Someone either working here or possibly hacked the systems. We can find whoever has access to this floor. But, this is another reason to be careful, in case there's a rat still in here...."

The employees go and open a large metal door with a keycard. The one leading shows them inside. "Here, the information that was taken leads to this recording and testing room. Someone snagged the whole file too, or else we'd have something to show you. We'll find out which soon, and inform you, and your team."

They walk to the door and softly wave. "Well, we'll let you look around for any clues. Find us, if you have any questions or find anything."

Eve and Agent Grey are left alone to investigate. Grey starts to walk off to the center of the room. "This is a large room, so look at one corner and make your way to another. I'll look over a little far off, but I'll be right here..."

Eve looks around, but she doesn't know if she's missing anything important. Nothing seemed out of place. She didn't know if they were going to have to search every file cabinet in the room. If could she tell ones missing was a different question. Eve ponders aloud to herself. "Hm... I wonder if I know a spell..."

Eve then jolts up in an idea. She places her hands in front of her, fingertips pressed together, and they glow. "If I can shine a light to what is lost, I can illuminate the path that led to where it was kept. Maybe- ?!" She suddenly stopped in her tracks and held her breath.

As if a sign was given to Eve, she sees from the corner of her eye something flashing. From an air duct, high on the wall, a gold light was glowing through the grate. She broke away her hands. The light dimmed slowly, then flickered away.

Eve walks over to where it was glowing. As she did, Grey notices her sudden turn, and he walks over. She grabs a chair walking by to the wall. She sets the chair in line to the vent and hops up to peek inside.

Eve turns and ushered for Grey to come closer. "Oh! Agent, I can use some assistance over here. I need to move this grate here. I see something inside...."

Grey sees if he could break the hinges. It ended up being successful as he retrieves missing chips from surveillance, and the missing file, with a few more files. "There's your rat... Hiding bugs, and the case files... Whoever got a hold of these last, could be the perp for the leak. Whatever they're planning, it's not going to be good with this information out."

They made it seem like the files left, but they never took it out of the facility. However, even if personal technology is prohibited, someone could have made an illegal copy. Even written it down somewhere, and left. Grey inspects everything.

Eve gets more worried. She asked, since she couldn't really tell. "What is it?"

Grey reads out as he quickly scans everything again. He didn't need to, but wanted to be thorough. "Different statements of abnormal weapons, an unidentifiable object that kills people from its radioactive components, some so forth... None of this is good...."

Eve looks between the files in Grey's hands, and up at him worried. "Oh galaxies... Who do we inform about this?"

Agent Grey tampers with the bugs. He then calmly explains their course of action. "The Director, for one. Probably the same team we just met with earlier. Unless they're all on it, they wouldn't let it simply slip by. Especially with the evidence now in our position. But, they all seemed clear, from what I can tell." Grey speaks calmly as he's confident, given his abilities. It was no hunch.

Just one touch, even Eve has discovered, Grey can read a lot from. One thought could happen in a thousandth of a second, and he could relay that thought to himself. And, what he got from the scientist was nothing more than worry or annoyance. Regardless, they had no part.

They trail back where they had found the scientists that had just introduced them. There are just two standing together, but another was just off looking at equipment.

Grey handles over the files to the few scientists they had just been speaking to. He keeps the bugs, but had already deactivated them and just shows them. "This is what we found. Maestro found this stashed inside an air duct. We suspect the alert happened because someone's been trading or selling off information, and the data banks were alerted."

The lead scientist takes back the files, and nods nervously. "N- noted. We'll handle this. Go to security for surveillance, and find whoever's supposed to be over there." They point to the elevators.

Grey turns to Eve before they head to surveillance. "Whoever is receiving this information is our next mission. We have to continue our search." And, they walk to the elevators to go back to security that they saw coming in.

Grey goes to the laptop given to the investigators, one that was clean and untraceable. He opens and downloads the files and footage before putting it onto a hard-drive. He turns to Eve once he's done. "Let's go back, and check these files, and the different surveillance we collected."

As Grey walks over to Eve, he asks. "You have your log?"

Eve jumps up nodding. "Yup~!" She reached for her utility belt, where it was attached.

Grey turns awake, starting to make his way back to the door, and Eve follows quickly behind. "Good. Let's talk to a few more people, and check their alibi. Then, report back to the director." He seriously spoke, having still much more work to do.

____________________________

It was a long search and Grey dealt with most of the background checks with employees. They both get the notice that the base security systems were now 'passive'. Agent Grey instructs Eve to follow him back to the jet. It was a miracle enough to Grey that she didn't wander off at any point.

They make it back on the jet. Grey sits, and Eve follows, sighing as she sits next to him. Grey turns to Eve, propping his head on his fist, elbow on the armrest between them. "Good work. Now, how do you feel?"

Eve sighs again. Again, now thinking of 'work'. "Sigh, not bad. Not super excited about this, but not as bad as I thought. It's very important sounding, may or may not mean good stuff still, but yeah."

Grey leans deeper and more tiredly into his propped fist. He coolly speaks as he looks away. "Do you want anything to eat or a refreshment? There's snacks, but the cafeteria's still open, for people coming back from late missions."

Eve shakes her head and politely smiles. "Heh, I'm alright. I'm going to make food later."

Grey tiredly gestures with an arm. Eve turns as Grey gets her attention again. "Is the... tiger alright? Does he not starve, being home all day?"

Eve giggles and shakes her head. She tries to explain it simply, since knowing anything about tigers wasn't that common. "He's good for one and a half, to two weeks at a time. He eats big meals all in one day. I've been feeding him on weekends when I had days off during training."

Grey breathes out a chuckle. "As much as he eats I'm surprised it's not less frequented days. Two whole weeks possibly?"

Eve fanatically nods and beams at her partner. Agent Grey goes back to coolly speaking. Sounding more critical, than thrilled. "Interesting. You know a whole lot from taking care of him, in just a year's time. I don't even know how the hell you can manage starting."

Eve could agree it was a little nerve-racking at first, but they've become very close and in tune to one another now. She didn't expect to take in a tiger suddenly. Luckily for Eve, libraries and watching others with pet tigers on the internet helped guild her in the beginning.

Thinking back, Eve remembers Sameer wasn't that difficult to care for, besides his large feedings. She giggles. "He loved living with me in an apartment! He's just a big house cat. I lived in apartments that allowed pets, but I assume a tiger is kind of pushing it... So, I hid him with that cloak spell if a landlord had a suspicion...."

Of course, the cloak spell she used once before. Grey had remembered no one paid any mind to Sameer. Yet, no one just ran into him like an invisible wall. Grey thinks for a moment how she could hide a tiger that size, if it weren't for magic. It would have been impossible.

Grey snickered just imagining landlords and neighbors being none the wiser. But, he couldn't imagine how Sameer possibly became so aware. "Yeah, I wouldn't want to deal with that if he wasn't so oddly intelligent and docile. I actually wouldn't really as is, but that's obviously not a normal tiger."

Eve suddenly worries about another friend in danger. She didn't want any of her friends to be taken, or interrogated. Although Grey promised no harm to come, and that they remained secretive between each other, Eve still raised her voice and stressed her concerns. "Are...- Don't you dare make a report about Sam either!"

Grey waved his hands and stops her spiraling all the dark intentions she could paint the agency as. "What? Heavens no! What I meant was it's special in some way, but maybe not abnormal. He wouldn't be experimented on. If anything, maybe observing how he acts around you. But I don't mean reports! Jeez!"

Eve backs off, less tense now that they're in full agreement. "Okay... Making sure. I don't want him involved. He's just an 'intelligent tiger' for all I know as well. I obviously don't care what he is regardless, Sam is Sam. I just want him to be safe and happy. That's all I care about."

Grey eyes Eve, making sure he's not crossing any lines with her. "Have you ever looked into him, or animals that can perfectly understand speech?"

Eve looks away and brushes a hair away from her face. "Well, I DID have a magical theory, if you wanted to hear it...." She drew out sheepishly.

Agent Grey raises a brow, waiting for Eve to continue. Her play of making things more dramatic as a bit of a pain to Grey, rather than just getting everything out there. The silence afterwards annoyed his curiosity. He draws on so she will explain her theory. "Which is...?"

Eve turns to eye Grey in return. She raises a brow in return at Grey. Then, tilts her head questioningly. "Promise, no telling immediately in case they take him?" Her tone disappointed if he were to disagree. It was high pitched but soft, a bit of emotion poured out.

Grey sighs, but nods in agreement. He doesn't believe they would, but if it pleased Eve, then he will. He'll do anything to cooperate with his partner. "Yes... Of course, I promise."

Eve touches Grey's shoulder and rests her fingers on his broad collar.

'There once were magical creatures too. Long ago, some mythical, some like familiars to humans coexisted. Sam could be a rare creature from the past, but... I don't know how he got here. They were all extinct... I think maybe he's something like us, just being born miraculous. Or, somehow there's places where these creatures are now hidden. If the ladder, I really hope no one just took or pillaged for Sam from a sacred place....'

Grey grabs Eve's hand as she infiltrates his mind with crazy information. It was sometimes a habit to pull her hand away, though, he could just stop listening to her thoughts. Grey gruffly shouts. "My-... Eve!! But- What if it's that? There's places with bizarrely unique creatures. Good and sketchy ones with-... Sorry... This is... Ahem, we need to at least ask the Director. Just to see if he knows anything. He has access to every detail the federation AND all government agencies have. He would know if there's anything like Sam...." He let go of Eve once he realized he'd been holding onto her and shouting. Agent Grey starts to calm as he composed his thoughts.

Eve utters nervously, and a bit snappy. "I- I don't know, just if he promises not to do anything or take him away. And! Mr. Oracle needs me to be with Sam at all times, if he needs to look at him!" She decreed.

Grey rolls his eyes at Eve. He heavily scoffed. "Jeez, tell that to the Director if you must. Don't just be yapping it to me. We'll talk about this later... We'll have to pick this case back up in the morning as well." He faces away towards the window, ending the conversation.

They will think more about the connections Eve sees to magic in the agency. For now, Eve closes her eyes and puts in her earbuds. "Yes, you're right... Just tap me if you need me. I'm going to listen to toons...." Together, they were possibly piecing together clues of the past, into the current. Or, at least see if Eve recognizes any martials for magic, or anything that resembled her furry friend.

__________________________________________________

Eve pops her head into her apartment. It was dark, but it had just turned nightfall. She lit up the room with her smile. Sameer trots to her. "Hi again, Sam~! Back!"

Sameer softly jumps up and licks his friend's face. Eve giggles and hugs him. Eve goes to her kitchen and fixes a late dinner. She sits with Sam on her couch as they unwind.

When they head to bed, Eve takes a warm shower, to finally end the long and exciting day. She changes to her pajamas. Brushing her hair beside her dresser, she sees a necklace with a misty crystal. Eve picks it up and looks deep in thought. "Hm... contact..."

Eve thinks if she should contact her mentor now. It's been weeks, maybe a few months since Eve was taken to the S.O.U. She hasn't said anything to Yamehl yet, she promised to them and herself she didn't want to cause any panic. For the S.O.U., or her loved ones.

Eve huffs frustrated, and then inhales deeply to try to keep from holding in her breath worried. She couldn't bring herself to make the call. She wept slightly, in fear of the future questioning to come. "Oh, 'Mehl... Please... Stay safe...."

Eve hugs the crystal and holds it to her forehead, concentrating in a prayer-like state. She didn't want to activate it, but she was mentally pleading for her mentor's safety. She didn't know what would happen if she told Yamehl she was taken and working for an agency with a lot of power and knowledge. And, that they wanted his knowledge too. She didn't want conflict to start, when she was just being accepted as their own.

But, Eve wasn't, at least not quite. She couldn't be like the rest, she was a magician. A grand magician's apprentice to be exact, not an agent. Not someone who's dumbfounded and confused about their power. She knew a lot, maybe too much. What that means is that she's the keeper of knowledge. She was blessed to use, and give back powers that's not hers to begin with. Only shared.

The next day came after Grey promised to show Eve, and Sam, around the city. It was a typical, busy day. It was a little cloudy, but the wind was moderate and still warm out.

Grey walks out of the apartment complex to the blaring city life. In front of him lay the sea of bystanders on the sidewalk, crowding along others on their own destinations around New York City. He hears the typical shouting and horns screeching to welcome his day. He looks back and rolls his eyes. He warns under his breath, and turns back around. "Remember, no magic."

Eve walks out after him and holds the door open for Sameer. She cheerfully replies, holding a hand to her heart. "Besides the charm on Sameer? I won't be doing any tricks or magic in front of people. Swear to the stars."

They walk as Grey leads Eve and Sam. Together, they dressed more sharply than most for their casual weekend wear. Even though Sameer was cloaked, Eve put a bright blue bow around him like a collar. She made a smaller one for herself too around her shirt collar and bright vest, so that they could match.

When Grey went to pick them up, he absolutely hated how ridiculous they looked. Eve found it to be cute however, and Sam even agreed with his friend. Grey didn't want to be caught with the two. Luckily, one was supposedly invisible to others. He still could see the tiger whenever Sameer was close to Eve, which was the whole time.

Sameer acted so calmly and happy, even in a busy, loud atmosphere. He never took off or attacked small pets that walked by. Sam also understood, a lot basically. He'll eye something while walking, and nudges Eve to curiously gesture with his eyes to what he's fixed on. She sometimes stopped to show Sameer, and talk to him about what it was. And, like he knew, he would nod in understanding as she spoke.

Sameer stays between Eve and Grey onto the sidewalk to act as a small barrier. Eve had the charm placed over Sam prior, and no one looked at them funny. At least Eve and Agent Grey could still interact with him, and the rest of the world. They could go to the bakery and get something to eat at the park. Grey could also point out some of the 'agent spots'.

It had gotten busy just walking for a few blocks, but even the crowds of people didn't bat an eye to a tiger walking beside them. They never even ran into Sam. Grey stayed mostly silent to keep his reserve. Eve just hums in peace and talks to Sam, mostly about looking at something she wants to point out to him.

They reach the park, both Eve and Sameer look at the stretch of greenery. Grey is walking in front of them, as if to get their attention, and enters the park. They follow the agent as they look about at the plants, small venues, and people.

Eve goes away from the walkway and under the shade of a tree as Sam follows her. She places her hand on it, looks at it, and analyzes it with wonder. Grey suddenly stops and spins around when he notices she wasn't beside him. He quickly huffs over to her. 

Eve turns to Grey as he approaches. "Hm... See this tree?"

Grey drops his shoulders and looks at her with the most plain yet irritated look. He pointed out aloofly. "It's just a tree...."

Eve chuckles and Grey looks at her dumbfounded. She knows he's not getting it, or going to. So she explains. "Hehe, yes, but I can feel the whole tree, and the little connections it has to the bushes, and flowers around it. Some of the connections it has to other plants and trees are just from the different roots. This park is beautiful but the area is very new and not natural. The roots are less expansive than the ones to the trees in the desert-land. It's a similar height to the tree in my memories, however the roots haven't grown for thousands of decades. I can tell it's not even a hundred years or near that...."

"Try making a connection with me, and see if you can feel it too." Eve said, and held out her hand, with her other hand still on the tree. Grey hesitantly takes her hand, and Eve's eyes start to glow once his hand was in hers. He feels something odd, and suddenly stiff.

Grey gets a sense of what nature 'felt'. But, he couldn't place what that feeling was, as he suddenly sees his entire vision changing. Things were moving all around as Grey looked at exactly 'what'. It was like flowing veins traveled everywhere except the concrete and sky. Many small dots were moving from the top of the tree, to the ground, and everywhere else. For him at least, it was hard to tell what connections were to where. Everything felt jumbled and obscuring his entire vision.

Agent Grey suddenly yanks Eve's hand so that she's away from the tree. As if something bad was going to happen, and he couldn't let her continue either. That was a bit too overwhelming for him, and Eve's already broke her promise using magic from showing him that.

"Enough. That's too weird... I somehow felt a part of this tree or something... and we just look like a bunch of tree-huggers out here. That's enough magic, don't use stuff people can't see either." Grey sternly scolded in whispers.

Eve's expression lessens, looking down and showing a bit of guilt. She almost apologizes. "... I know I did magic showing you, but not by feeling the tree... It's hard not to, I just feel everything here. It's in front of me, like what you normally see, feel, even hear. I sense a connection when I touch it directly...."

Agent Grey looks at her stunned for a moment, then sighs frustrated into his hand. He gives up trying to understand Eve sometimes. He starts to walk off groaning. "Okay, arrgh... sorry. I didn't know. Just don't be so indiscreet about it."

They just try to continue walking as normal. For Grey, as normally as he could after that strange revelation. He continues to ask, hushed to Eve. "How can you feel everything anyways? Were you always able to do that?"

Eve keeps her head forward, as Grey just tilts his ear to her. The three try to stay a bit more discretely, even though they were far enough and hushed from others eavesdropping. "I think it just happened after practicing magic a lot. When I came back to modern life, I felt nature still speaking to me. Very quietly and weak...."

Agent Grey takes a hand to heavily brush his forehead and hair, making sure it's still neatly swept back. "Sigh... This is more paperwork for the science hall to receive. I hate having to talk to Green, she's so terrible with personal space."

Grey shutters a bit and Eve giggles. Sameer looks up from walking to hear her joy in her voice. "I noticed, she is so pretty and nice though! Does her ability involve plants?"

Grey smirks and nods in response. "Heh, you guessed it. It was a fitting name. You couldn't forget it, just by the color of her eyes. That seems to be a pattern, at least each eye color has someone with the same code name." Of course, said Agent 'Grey'. The 'Mr. Grey-Eyes, Grey-Hair' . He could attest to it.

Eve's expression lit up brighter. The excitement in her voice was thrilled. "Oh! I could show her a lot more herbal magic. She might understand, being more natural!"

Agent Grey signals a finger to his lips and turns to Eve. His lips still curving upward at Eve's cheerful attitude, but she was being loud as usual. She could not contain herself or her excitement. Grey chuckles. "I thought so too... I think whatever's in those books might also have power that'll explains some abilities. Powers have a special different resonance that they categorize in, like spells it seems."

Eve points a finger, like excitedly dawning in an idea. "That's it really. People just have an infinity to one specific, and the books help other magicians practice others' powers. The earth has its own infinity, we are one of many parts of it. There's a lot to magic, the books, people, and things around us... It'll take time to explain, I guess, heh."

Agent Grey scoffs. "Jeez, is anything normal or- Okay, it'll take some time talking, translating text, AND getting past any hellish experiences. This is all too mind boggling for right now...."

Grey referred back to the 'feeling nature' part to have to manage. It was certainly one thing to hear but another to experience. How Eve got used to that was ludicrous just thinking of. He swears he doesn't want to experience peculiar things again, if he didn't have to. He still wanted to understand, magic, and Eve.

Eve chimes an answer, perfect as magic as already an enigma. "A magician is just a type of ingredient. Not all 'ingredients' are the same. We make many different connections, like roots. We might want to make a connection for spells. Long ago, animals too- but... well, full extinction wiped them all after millennials. I don't know, but the desert had almost everything we needed. Everything else we only need to buy imports shipped, or Yamehl would travel somewhere. I think he might have been to different continents, his trips were random lengths of time for a few days. The longest was a month."

A month was not long at all. That was probably for the best, since Yamehl alone would be gone. His shop would be unattended for however long his absence was. Without the town's magician, there would be no special medicines and potions.

Grey questioned, wondering if Eve's traveled as well. "You never went with him?"

Eve shook her head and held her fists tightly to her chest. "No, I volunteered to keep the shop running since he had to be gone for a while. He also said they were dangerous sometimes, and didn't want me to go."

Grey teased, seeing Eve out of character from what he's seen her like. "Hm. I'm surprised you didn't fight him, and all."

Eve gasped at the idea. She would never dare disagree with her mentor, unlike Grey. Her apprenticeship was built on trust. She waves her fists at him, shouting. "He's my mentor! I wouldn't do that! It was better to help him keep the shop running in case someone needed something! Plus... He's the acting grand magician of the middle east. He's beyond capable, I'm sure. He can protect himself... I wouldn't want him to be in danger though...."

Grey shrugs and thinks. Everything seemed like it was understandable, but always a bit out of grasp. "Hm. It's curious how this information hasn't come in before. Sometimes, even I get surprised by what governments DON'T know."

Eve giggles, and Grey eyes her, walking along. She notices Sameer waving his head around. A small yellow butterfly was hovering around him. She giggles watching him battle an insect as he tries to bite it when it approaches close enough.

Eve and Sam both slow down, distancing them from Grey. They completely stop as she looks up to vibrant flora in front of a small vender. She just lets Grey be, as she wanders over to the flowers with Sam still playing with the fluttering butterfly using his paws and teeth. Grey seems to have caught up with Eve again as she kneels down, almost hiding herself unintentionally.

Grey at least knows to keep an eye on Eve, or else she'll run off like a child. Grey watches her innocently gather a small arrangement. She even giggles and shows Sameer. Grey interrupts her, casting a shadow over Eve from behind. "Flowers? For anything?"

Eve turns, and she gives the agent a big smile. "I just like to buy flowers sometimes. Really livens up my white décor. Plus, buying flowers can be fun. You pick a variety, sometimes talk about the types and meanings, and give them away to random people. Just a fun thing to randomly do!"

Grey looks at Eve doubtfully. "You won't have many flowers left. I have a feeling they don't make it to the vase often."

Eve giggles. She brushes a bit of hair behind her ear and keeps a warm smile plastered on her face. "True, I do like foliage anyways. Flowers are nice for the room, or for people. Whatever happens, it's fun regardless! Been given a pretty flower brightens anyone's day up!" She then jumps up excitedly idling the flowers.

They walk on. Eve smells her arrangement and holds it out for Sam. He sniffs the air and gets closer to the flowers. Eve turns her body while walking at Sameer. "Hey Sam, want a flower crown? I bet you'd look so cute with one on!"

Sameer nods looking up at her. Eve spins to Grey, smiling brightly at him. There was a twinkle in her eyes as she sweetly spoke. "Can we sit for a moment?"

Agent Grey nods. They find an empty bench to sit on as the park surrounds them with various types of life. Eve hums as she's weaving smaller flowers together. Grey sits with his arms crossed and eyes closed in a meditating-like state. After she's halfway done with the crown, Grey opens his eyes and turns his head to Eve. "So... there's something... odd. I wanted to ask the other day...."

Eve now worries about what Grey was about to say. Wondering what could be odd, besides a lot. It shouldn't involve anything weird about her furry friend.

Grey bluntly asks. "Does the tiger understand us?

Eve jolts. The jig was up. Not like they tried very hard, just letting him piece it together for himself. She still worried the moment he asked. Sameer could understand them fully, and Grey noticed.

Eve scratches her cheer nervously. "Um... Yeah... He has a really great understanding of speech. He can't talk of course. I found that out when we were traveling together."

Grey surprisingly was acting calm as he nodded. It solved some of his smaller mysteries about Eve. But, another question arose to how Eve randomly saved an animal that can understand humans. Or, if it was magic. "Okay, that explains some things. It has been bugging me ever since last night... You didn't train him to shake his head?"

Sameer shook his head at Grey, but then he jolts realizing he was shaking his head as Grey mentioned. The way Sam had used his facial expressions. The way he responded by 'yes', 'no', and 'I don't know's with his head movements. How he understood his own conscience and knew language. Languages even. All of that was odd indeed.

Grey hums thinking then turns back staring at the two companions. He shakes his head slightly. "You two... are the weirdest duo I've ever met."

Eve jumps with glee and puts a white and blue colored flower crown on Sam. Better calling one weird, than an endangerment to the agency and needed to be locked away. "Thanks! I take that as a compliment!"

Agent Grey rolls his eyes, hard. It looks like he was about to hurt himself doing so. "Sigh... I better not accidentally say something that he wouldn't like. Now I have to watch out for a tiger that can hear me."

Sam raises the fur above his eye, in a curious raised brow. Eve smiles playfully. "Hah, that's why I wanted him to hear also. True, I wanted us all to go out together, but also, he's my bodyguard! Don't be mean, or else he might attack you again, hehe!"

Grey didn't like the sound of it, even if it's a joke. He is serious, yet toys back. "Don't sick him on anyone you just don't get along with."

Eve keeps her mischievous smile and shakes her head. "I won't do that... But, threaten me, the desert-land, or Sam? You'll have the both of us to worry about..."

Grey for a moment had a small chill run up his spine. Although Eve was toying with a large grin on her face, it seemed threatening. Grey felt like there'd be hell to pay, if anyone were to cross Eve. Maybe, because Sameer was involved in that threat.

Eve snaps Grey out of his worry, with a white rose under his nose. She had a few since they had thorns. Eve giggles. "Here. Let this be a peace offering. We won't fight you, if you don't fight us. Let's all get along!"

Grey huffed and took the flower. He didn't know what to do with it, but he took it as a sign of agreement. He didn't know what to think of this girl. Except, that he was the only sane one out of the odd bunch. He didn't sign up for that, but it was placed onto him as his responsibility now. Soon enough, Eve would be his partner. And, the trails as partners has yet to begin.

_________________________________________

Time had passed for Eve. Days gone by as well as many exercises as a recruit. Training went smoother as she tried to stay calm, and do her absolute best to survive. She goes through more combat training. These last few times she's been practicing with her magic tool belt.

As android enemies spring to life, Eve glows and leaps into the air. She throws stones down, and they become full beings. She lands in front of six human-like figures, and they all rush in. She handles dodging as the statues throw heavy attacks. The metallic kicks and punches did less damage on the stone statues, only rumbling and cracking them slightly. She'd have to carve out more stones if they get destroyed. Quite a cumbersome task to remake.

Eve uses her natural light-waves to knock opponents from any distance. She gets to use her favorite trick of all. This one she used chemistry just as an aid. She didn't want to waste her limited materials, as much as she could. Taking from her belt fire capsules and throwing them at the floor. A ring of fire appears, Eve uses one arm to raise the flames. Curling her fingers into a fist and throwing another capsule with her other hand, sending fire to break out and become fireballs tumbling towards enemies, adding to the flames trapping them as well. Once no more androids are left in the ring, she quickly makes it to 'lvl 10' and more androids appear.

Eve uses her statues to run at them as a distraction, while she weaves small nets for the other figures to subdue enemies with. Three opponents rush her. She jumps behind then and kneels. She takes a moment to glow and send her body weightlessly at a wall and up above a whole group of earth and metals clashing. She tries to use her light-rings to rain down at the ground below as she descends. Eve steps back onto the floor and deflects a punch from an android with her arm. She sends a firework into its torso to disable it with the small explosion and goes to try it again with another android that unfortunately blocked back.

Eve jumps and flips her body backwards, then when crouching, takes out two capsules to hold in her fists. She crushes them and sends the flames into a slow swirling circle from Eve's arm to feet, and winds up a kick. She strikes at it again. The android gets hit with a fiery blast, along with a knock back that tumbles it to the ground. Eve breathes in deeply, the fires become a colorful-like amber and sparks around her. She uses it to use her punches and kicks to hold more weight in her blows, while continuing to fight wave, after wave. Being light and swift on her feet with her magic. She goes through sets of enemies quickly with her, and her magical statues.

Eve takes on a few missed blocks and suddenly was rushed. She tried to activate a ray, but her light ring shatter as it fails to protect her in time. Falling onto her knee, Eve springs up above all the heads of her opponents, and palms pointing out at them. She creates another ring, and a large light ray knocks them down, and propels her higher. She flips back onto the ground and sweeps an android's leg out from under it. She turns and does a high kick at another that was about to rush Eve. She then throws small light rings right, left, and at all angles. Little remained, and with what little she knew, after came after this was the maximum training level.

Lieutenant Morse calls out to Eve, as she's going through waves of opponents like it is nothing now. "Level 30, new androids. Each are paired with a hostage. For this test, try to avoid the hostages and take the enemies out. Red androids are more hostile and will terminate their hostage randomly. So, take them out first."

Eve's statues had just placed the last few blows as the lieutenant informed her. She tries to juggle the information thrown at her, but stops, and turns confused. "Eh-huh?! How-." 

A loud bang interrupts Eve. Androids already storm in from being raised from the ground. Each holding a similar figure in blue details in front of them. The captor androids looked normal but some had red details all over them. "Great...." She huffs, annoyed.

Eve turns to her statues, now lining up in a row. She goes up to one, and suddenly hits it on the top of its head with her fist. In a poof of smoke, it falls to the ground as a small carved figure again. She does this to all of them, hitting them once on the head or in their chest. She gathers them up in her arms. Eve looks at the few rows of androids, standing in place and chucks the stones at the red colored ones. The stones tumble till they fall behind the targets and go back to full form. They take the targets out from behind with moves she saw examples in from class.

Eve goes to glowing brighter and her image weightless and almost hard to distinguish every feature. She darts from her side closer to the other side with enemies. She in a flash flies from the walls, to the floor, to hit an android attacker from behind, and repeating. Each hit she got faster and brighter till eventually all targets were getting knocked back from the victim androids almost simultaneously. With Eve, her fire, her light, and her statues, they were all defeated in a few finishing takedowns.

The lieutenant applauded. "Training simulation complete. You finished, and certainly passed this part of training by reaching every practice-level available." Eve walks out of the chamber and brushes her hair from away her face with her hands. As Eve passes, Lieutenant Morse flashes a smile. "Can I congratulate you, or will you get mad? You did a good job regardless."

Eve looks at him for a moment, then a moment later, looks down a bit glum. "Thanks...." She muttered.

The lieutenant keeps one side of his smile upright, but looking a bit perplexed. "You don't look very happy for someone who's in the top 5 in all of the recruitments. And, it's been a good roster this semester."

"It's like school all over again. Ranks and tests, so boring." A sudden voice adds into the conversation.

A man approaches them. He had short, vibrant red hair combed to one side, and eyes that were colored as brightly yellow as the sun. "I've already been in the top 5 since boarding and beginning of the academy."

The male bores on, eyeing Eve up and down. Walking closer, he keeps his sour, pouting expression on her. "You however got some luck with your abilities and handicaps. You didn't use much combat for over half of it but your power's."

The lieutenant greets the younger gentleman as he walks over. "Ah, Randle. Also, the one above you in test scores, Eve. He's in the top 3." He looks down at his clipboard at their scores and pushes his glasses up to see.

Eve just tries to act unperturbed. It's not like Eve cared about rank, but the competitiveness was too much for her. "Well, I don't know anything about training, or went to school for this. I have aids, because I still have some reason for being here, I guess. I'd assume they wouldn't let me use it at all if they didn't want me having aids out on the field."

The red-haired man rudely scoffs. "It's pretty unfair for the people who worked hard here...."

The younger, but tall man tries to tower his body over Eve. She just rubs her aching shoulder, taking a step back. She stares at him back with a plain and slightly annoyed look. "I didn't ask or want to be here... If I didn't have them, I'd probably just get killed. You have your skills and knowledge, when I have mine. It's not like I knew there was a system, and I was doing things differently...." 

They stare each other down. Eve's stern look was more cold than his bitter, but amused one. The lieutenant tries to space the two apart. He definitely didn't want to deal with power-drama from recruits. "Okay, no fighting except on the test dummies here. Don't want any arguments to happen, so keep it light."

Eve reassured him, in her own way. "Hehe, light is my middle name! Actually it's a translation of moonlight, but still, haha... I can keep it light for sure, heh!" Eve chuckles at a joke she tries to bring up with that expression, whenever it comes up. Keeping it light, with puns to her name, and magic at times.

The lieutenant walks off, continuing to observe more of the testing. At least one person was dealt with. If only Eve's current problem was the one that left first. Yet he stays, still watching Eve with no sign of leaving her. Randle mischievously hums. "Got to say 'Moonlight', you have a pretty interesting ability."

Eve suddenly turn back to the male recruit. She stutters a bit confused. "H-huh? Do I now?"

Randle waves his hand and chuckles with the most sickening, cackling voice. "Well, the light is well made but the 'aids' you use are extraordinary, heh."

Eve brushes it off as much as she could as she uncomfortably relies. "Thanks, again I don't know about the system, so I just know from what I've discovered on my own."

Randle jerks his head inquisitively. "Really? Well how'd you do that?"

Eve pauses and scratches her head awkwardly. "Eh... Keep reading spell books and think I'm crazy. It ended up working, heh."

Randle mocks Eve, even giving a short laugh in her face in dismay. "... Pssh, that's just trying to be a witch."

Eve tries not to correct his term with the complete history she learned about magic, magicians and sorcerers, and its near extinction. She shouldn't bother to try to explain anything that comes to question, or anger her more. All she does is defuse herself first before she snaps. Eve took a deep breath and exhaled a more rational thought. "... It just might be part of my power. I still don't know all these things for certain. Whatever it is, it had me brought here."

Randle shockingly smiled at Eve, catching her off guard for a moment. It was a crazy smile to Eve, one that shouldn't appear with his tone. "Heh, well, welcome to the 'special', special forces. Hope you'll like it, haha!"

He finally carried his mocking and arrogant attitude away, leaving her alone. Eve finally got to have a clearer breath. She goes on to walking away and talking to others on how well everyone did. Eve can stand a bit taller and relaxed now, but not as much with her new rival, Randle, staring her down half of the time.

___________________________________________

After combat, Eve and other recruits had to take tests over the topics the agency had. It wasn't as difficult, but still took a long time to complete. Eve is one of the first to finish and waits till her results get submitted. She tried, though it didn't matter to her much, since she knew what she'd be assigned to.

Eve walks out once all the tests are done. The same small male that had troubles in the beginning was walking out with a crowd of other students behind her. "Eve! It's finally over... How did you feel taking those tests?"

Eve giggles, and optimistically deems no worries over the test. "It wasn't that hard. Most of it was using common sense and safety. The only hard part was the legal risks."

A male huffs tiredly walking by groans, overhearing them talk about the test. "Ugh, school. I'm too old for this. Thank god, it's over."

An announcement over speakers in the hall caught everyone's attention. Everyone looks up, curiously.

'Recruits on floor 18C, please come to the director's office on floor 32A.'

Eve looks up and then around at the fellow recruits gathering in the hall. She remembered that being her class floor. Eve questions aloud. "What's that about?"

A man coos tiredly behind the group walking out. He puts his hands up and shrugs. "Probably test scores? Dunno...."

Eve's hall makes its way to the director's office. Eve, knowing how to get there quickly and a few others following her for directions. They pile into the large office and the director stands before them, smiling as they come in.

The director waits for the door to close and everyone to take a moment to realize why they were all there. He had his iconic clipboard, and was ready to begin. "Welcome new recruits. Good to see some of you again. If you don't know already, I am Director Oracle. Congratulations on making it through training thus far. Before we continue on giving out your scores, we'll get through names, and sectors of the unit you might be placed in."

"File up any order and give me your name." The director looks to them, and starts with the small man Eve's talked with on occasions. People say their names when the Director steps in front of them.

Everyone gives out their names as the director points to each on his clipboard. Everyone was there that he needed to talk to next. He starts writing some details. He then speaks, "Each of you have succeeded in graduating. Your next requirements are to prepare for what sector you will be assigned or have requested, if you already filled out a slip for what office you wanted to work in."

Eve immediately raises her hand and then speaks up. "Wait- I could have been in the science hall, if I requested it?"

The director turns, shaking his head to Eve. Who's already spoiled some of the fun of her result. He looked down at the clipboard and smiled back up. "However, you scored high in combat and operations. You're overall was best everywhere, especially in places others lacked in. You would be more fit for being an outfield agent."

Eve varies, and frowns. Even though she knew all along she would be an agent. It still came as a shock. Or, she just wanted some saving grace to change her fate at the last minute.

The director taps his clipboard and continues on. "Now, going through scores, Randle. You had a 99 percent on the electronic test, you're combat and training a solid 95."

Randle beams confidently at his score. He'd only be happier if it was perfect. But not even Randle could do everything, like hostage situations. That is where he wasn't perfect, and he deep-rootedly disliked it. The director smiles back at Eve and reads the next score. "Eve, you had a 97, and a 95 in combat as well."

Randle suddenly whips his head to her. He interrupts, gawking in a disgusted tone. "How'd she get so high?! She didn't score as high as me in the first few practices!"

Director Oracle waves his pen and smirks. "But, she made more of a substantial comeback. You kept a mid 90 the whole time, the medium being the benchmark for you. Eve went from 85 percent the first go, to an almost perfect score. It still counted how well she sharply curled her success."

Randle would probably curse Eve, and her aids she used to be better than him. It didn't defuse his uproar as he's too baffled with rage to actually say anything that even resembled words. The director slides it off, and waves a hand to the recruits. "Everyone here passes, but where you'll be placed is based on what I have here."

The Director points to his clipboard with his pen. He then goes over everyone and their position, either requested or given. Once everyone has a job, the director adds to finalize. "You will all be given your manuals and directions for what you need to do for your first day. Everything you'll need will be given by the head in charge of your sections. You'll be notified by your advisors when to start. Meet with the advising staff in the sectors for details and questions."

People nod and are given their floor and hall numbers to report to. They were also given electric logs for their work and reporting. Eve inspects her log and hall. Oddly, it was the same number, but displayed as 'Floor 32B'. It was close, possibly just right outside of the director's door.

The director ushers everyone to wait for one more task before they all can leave. "Now, before you can leave, we have a policy for code names. These are more for our agents but we want everyone to have a name for protection purposes. If you're not an agent and don't prefer a name, we will give you one just for practice and safety. Then, you may be on your way. If you have trouble coming up with a name, we will provide one. Make sure you remember a name. Hopefully you all at least have been thinking of some beforehand."

The director smiles for a moment then goes back to concentrating on the papers in front of him. He goes through non-agents so they may leave first then keep the few agents remaining.

Eve is left playing with her hands as she tries to think of a name. She had forgotten all about it and knows hers might not be accepted. She kept wondering about a name on the spot. Till it was just Eve and Randle left. Randle watches Eve preoccupied with her thoughts.

Director Oracle stands before the lone agents. He smiles as warmly congratulates them. "You two are our best from training. We expect both of you to keep a good example and try to work your hardest. You may have to have more challenging tasks, I know we'll ask a lot from you two."

Eve still seems a bit occupied as she nods. The director moves his attention to the arrogant, cocky male first. Oracle smiles at him innocently. "Randle, what do you choose as your name?"

Randle doesn't hesitate as he smiles wickedly, and declares his code name. "Bolt."

"Simple enough." The Director breathes, writing the name down on his clipboard.

Randle smirks at the play-on to his power that he's so cocky about. Being able to cast lightning bolts in seconds and with deadly force. Along with that, he was also good at martial arts. The thing that made Eve feel so unsettled by it was his confidence with such a dangerous power.

The director says while looking down at his paperwork. "Agent Bolt, you're free to go... Eve." Then he turns his attention to her and she snaps out of her long, in thought trance. "What do you choose as your name?" He patiently waits for her reply.

Silence falls as Eve thinks. Randle stops at the door for a moment to eye Eve as he exits. The door closes and it's silent again. Eve looks at the director and ponders aloud. "... Maestro?"

Oracle rests the tip on his pen on his clipboard, ready to write. He looks at her curiously. "Agent Maestro? It works, if you're confident with it."

Eve nods. A little more confidently, she repeats. "Heh... Yep, call me the maestro, hehe. Part of being a music lover."

Director Oracle writes that down, and underlines it as he lifts his pen off his clipboard. He chuckles as he looks back up and smiles at Eve. "It's settled. You may leave in a moment...."

Eve jolts a bit. She looks at Oracle, a bit confused and worried. She politely spoke. "Hm? Is there something else?"

Oracle turns his attention away and Eve watches him face the door. He calls out to the door, outside of his office. "Agent Grey? You may come in."

A serious, monotone voice announced their presence. "Thank you, sir." Agent Grey opens the door and pops his head in before walking inside. Eve watches him come in and stop. Grey stands beside her facing the director.

Director Oracle waves his hand between the two. "Agent Grey, meet your newly trained partner, Agent Maestro."

Grey looks from the corner of his eyes at Eve, giving a small smirk. "Hm, fitting..."

Eve giggles in response and holds a hand to her face meekly. "Just like Agent Grey, heh."

Grey crosses his arms and huffs. He mutters looking away irritated. "Stupid natural hair color, I'm not that old... You're not that much younger than me, mind you. Tsk, makes me sound old, so freakin' annoying...."

The director watches them with an inquisitive smile, and then continues. "So, now that's settled, you two will be working very closely, and going on missions as a team. Agent Grey, I hope you'll show Eve how the unit works."

Eve turns her head to the agent, tilting her head curious. "What is your name? Your REAL name, since I've only called you 'Grey'."

Agent Grey meditates for a moment, closing his eyes while speaking. "It's best for the job that you keep calling me that... But, it's Cain....". He then looks away at a bookshelf instead of at Eve. He kept his arms crossed, hugging his arms tighter when speaking.

The director smiles and continues to introduce themselves to each other. As if they hadn't done that already, but Grey was too shocked when he heard Eve signed as his partner. He just had to warn Eve as well beforehand. "You'll be working closely together, so I hope you two won't be causing any issues here."

Eve jokes lightly, still honest. "Both of us? As a team? I'm sure we'll at least try not to."

Director Oracle was still thrilled to hear Eve's compliance. "Good. You two are dismissed. Agent Grey, show our maestro around by tomorrow afternoon, for her to receive your first instructions together. Till then, finish your work, and you're free to go whenever for the day."

Grey replies in his monotone voice. "Hm, already done with everything, but the ones for Eve and I."

The director nods and Grey turns to leave. Eve catches his eye as he passes her. He adds, keeping his serious tone as he looks at her. "There's a place I need to stop at before we leave. Follow me."

Grey walks out of the office and Eve follows him. They both pass through the new surroundings and offices Eve's seen little of. He didn't stop at the elevators, or any doors. He instead went to the exit stairwell, and went up. The more they walked up a few flights, the less she thought if this was for work. They're definitely passing all the doors to different floors, and he showed no stopping at any.

Eve finally asks Grey as he's silently leading them. "Why are we going up here?"

They reach the very top and the exit door was in their way. Eve thought they were at a dead end, till Grey unlocks the rooftop door, and goes out. They both stand up on the roof and marvel at the warm sunset glow.

Eve could see a lot of the city from above. It was a new sight of New York to her. As Eve looks out, Grey then responds. "The agency rooftop is the best place for some alone time. If you ever get stressed or need a break, you can take a breather up here. Luckily, most that could be trusted with the keys, never ask to use them. So it's almost always empty here."

Eve walks and looks around the vacant rooftop. There was a helicopter and landing-pad, large air duct systems, and a waist-height ledge around the perimeter. It was quiet, apart from the buzzing city streets below. Eve greeted the open air, feeling the wind lightly hit her face as she sighs happily.

Agent Grey walks over to Eve and she turns to him. He takes a set of keys out and quickly retrieves two and holds them out for her to take. "You can have the spares. I have one for both buildings. We try to keep the place secure so definitely remember to lock them up."

Grey keeps his eyes on her as she looks down at the keys that were placed into her palms. Grey muttered. "... You said you wanted a rooftop to perform at. The roof of the apartment wouldn't be bad, as long as you're not too loud. There's people there sometimes too." Grey finished as he couldn't face Eve any longer directly. Admitting to his memory, he remembered Eve wanted to still keep her music business going, if she could.

Eve for a moment was at a loss for words, but she felt her heart become lighter. "Noted. Thank you, Grey!" Eve looks back up and smiles kindly. She jumps up, and looks as if she was about to hug the agent. She gets closer, but doesn't seem to be wanting to break any personal space.

Grey smirks and breathes out a chuckle. He coyly crosses his arms, and tries to think nothing of it. "You're welcome, Maestro..."

Eve giggles at the agent using her new name. Not regretting it, or just yet, but from how silly it was. She loved it, and couldn't help but giggle. "Hehe, I'm going to have to get used to responding to that name."

Grey shrugs, he can understand since Eve is new. "Repetition, then it's easy. However, I don't know how I'll get used to having to call you 'Maestro' in public."

"Hehe, sorry for coming up with a random name on the fly. Honestly, I know my names can be... quirky." Eve opens the door for Grey and he takes the doorframe in one hand, towering over her.

"Maybe I'll just call you 'Miss Starlight'." Agent Grey walks past her down the steps. Eve thinks for a moment before trotting off behind him.

Eve can try to juggle nicknames. She'll at least remember what ones to respond to. "I've been given a lot of names that fit me just coming here, hehe. What's safe and sounds good enough is fine with me, hehe."

Grey draws out in a matter-of-fact tone. "Well, you'll definitely hear a lot more. You're already becoming the new office-buzz people are talking about."

"Heh, I'm always turning heads. That's something that hasn't changed." Eve passes Agent Grey to walk faster down the steps. She continues off as if she didn't regard her previous statement. He watches her and rolls his eyes.

Many days of training and living a new life had passed for Eve. She was asked by the director to meet with the science hall, and finding the lead scientist, Dr. Green. Eve is in front of a new hall, where everyone was wearing lab coats, and stepping to deeper halls or rooms. She turns to each door passing her, looking for a 'Dr. Green's' research room. She stops at the end of the hall and sees a relief of it being there. It was singled out with just a few other labs and storage.

Eve knocks but the door partly opens, with no response. She cracks it a small way and peers her head in to get a peak. "Good morning? I'm Eve, I was told to come here? Is there a Dr. Green around?"

A head pops from behind the other side of the door, beaming brightly. "Hello!" A woman greeted Eve excitedly. She opens the door fully and Eve gets a better look at the lab, and her. She held her golden hair in a floral wrap and a white lab coat over a pretty dress to match. She also had goggles on that covered her toxic green-looking eyes.

Eve steps in to see two other girls and a gentleman sitting at some counter, eyeing Eve curiously. The golden-haired woman clears her throat and opens a hand to shake Eve's. "Welcome to the science lab! I'm Dr. Green, lead scientist in the unit! Over there are my favorite little helpers!"

Dr. Green waves her hand over to three people by a workstation, presumably working on something till Green divides their attention to her. A man crosses his arms and scoffs. "We are scientists, not your typical customer service...."

Green brims her vibrant eyes with a cheeky smile. She bounces over to the man and pats him on his head, which he was much taller than her, so she had to go on the tips of her toes to reach. "But you're still my employees~. Everyone, meet Eve. She's new and here to show us some rare findings. Eve, let me introduce you to my team!"

Like waiting for her cue, a woman with purple hair and pale pink skin, jumps from off a counter space. She runs up to Eve and shakes her hand frantically up and down. "Hi, I'm Morax. Welcome newbie!"

The one man stays in place, not moving to where Eve was. He keeps an inquisitive eye on her however, and stays. Leaning his tall, lengthy body against the counter. "I'm Molaris, Molar, Micro, whatever name works. I'm the best assistant here, just saying..." He waves his hands up, defending himself.

The last woman, short with long and curly hair, sat on a stool beside Molaris. Her eyes were golden, like Eve's mentor, and her skin dark and sun-kissed. She even held a calming tone that made her eyes as direct as Yamehl's. "And I'm Viper. You can call me Cali, if you'd like. The agent names are not that necessary while in the precinct, just safer."

Dr. Green jumps between her assistants and the counterspace. She watches Eve get introduced and quickly interjects the reason why Eve was called there. "So, everyone, this is Eve Evanara, new in training. Eve has a few books and artifacts to share."

Green clasps her hands together and beams, excited to see what Eve had all brought with her. "Eve, what do you want to show us first?"

Eve places books and a bag of items onto the counter to show. She takes things out explaining them. "Well, I've read all through these books and know all the spells. I've got these stone dolls that become people-sized and able to control. I also made fire using normal chemicals, but that, and the spells I can use together. There's ingredients for a fire spell, at least a simple one. Making matters from thin air takes materials most times, unless very practiced, I think. I have found only a few rare plants and things for the spells that I have with me."

Eve jumbles between materials and organizes them into pairs. "Let's see. I can make... healing waters, fire, crystals, electricity, and maybe some other spells. And I've spent over half the time knowing of powers, learning from these books and practicing them for years."

Eve then tosses a stone statue on the ground, and in a poof of smoke, one stands tall, taller than most. It was completely still as Eve gestures at it and other materials. Green pokes at the dark grey, human-like figure. It was completely solid and a tad cold to the touch. It was smooth and voidless of any marks and details other than its shape.

Green was awestruck. "Wow! Incredible!"

Molaris flipped through a few pages but then cringed in confusion. His tone was less thrilled than Green's. "Uh, how did you learn to read all of these?"

Eve's gotten a bit more confident and practiced keeping certain details out. She knows between her real, and vague stories. "By settling in the more ancient parts and asking whoever to teach their modern language first, so you can ask more about the history and other languages. It took some years. I... found older dictionaries and ancient writings, b- but I didn't know if those would be important to keep, most were borrowed. I still have a few notes, actually. I can write what the text says- or I can teach you a spell now!"

After some time writing out on pieces of paper different writings in the books, Eve points out to words and translates to English the spell and some of the interesting parts. She ends on the page that had a fire starter spell. It was used whenever magicians needed a flame for something else, or the start of grasping fire magic.

Eve says out loud every ingredient listed and explains some of the special properties they had. She sets up a small test where she sparingly uses some of the ingredients for a fire spell.

In Eve's hands she holds out crystals and small, ash colored leaves. She takes a deep breath, already starting to focus. "When performing a spell that doesn't require text, you have to feel power drawn to you, and help control it..."

With that, sparks flew. A white sparkle floated up and around Eve. From the palm of her hands grew a bright blue flame. She clenched the tools in one hand and waved them closer to herself.

The flames circled around Eve, never burning her yet it was attached to her. She sets her hands down away from her in a flourish. The flames spin around her legs, making way down to her feet. It vanishes in a small circle on the floor around her.

Eve then continues to teach the group of S.O.U members. "Another thing is that I can help others use small forms of magic, even if they're not an ability-user. Just some small tricks. So, I can show you how to make a flame yourself too."

Molaris crossed his arms in protest. He gives Eve a bit of sass. "Uh, no thanks, I don't think starting with a fire trick is my thing."

Viper giggles in response. "Could be funny to watch. I'd blame you if we burn the lab down."

Eve looks between them curiously, and then smiles. She gets a new idea in mind to teach, if fire was going to be an issue. "How about a water spell?"

Morax lifts herself using a counter and blaringly shouts excited. "I could try that! Sounds easy!" She runs over to Eve. "Whatcha need?"

Eve flips the pages and grabs each tool, ensuring she has everything. She focuses on the spell as she speaks. "I could use a container of pure water for this. We're going to put something in the water for starters, then when I pass it to you. Try to 'hold' the water."

Morax looks at Eve, plain and confused. "Hold... water?"

Eve is given clean water and already submerges stones and crystals inside. She started to hover her hands over a glass container of water. It glowed slightly, her hands mostly glowing. She slowly brings her hands up and the water bubbles up and lifts out of the glass. Eve starts to wave her arms in circles around the forming ball, creating the water to be more spherical.

"What the heck?!" Morax shouts. Eve brings it closer to Morax and she freezes up. "Wha- what do I do?! You didn't read me the spell!"

Eve keeps her hands moving and getting closer. Morax just backs one step away from Eve's. Eve looked at her and tried to impose no threat. "Hehe, it's okay, it'll be simple. Hold your hands out away from you."

Morax did so, hesitantly. She held her arms out and they shook slightly nervously. Eve's calm and direct tone catches their attention. "Now, try mimicking my hands a bit, and we're going to make this bigger, creating more water with the spell."

They both move their hands around the water. It wasn't till Eve moved her hands back a ways that Morax was seeing herself doing it without the water spilling. Suddenly, the water was hovering in Morax's hands unnaturally, to her own movements. "No way! This is so cool!!"

Morax brings the water closer to her and tries to move it around more. She stretches the water across the room till it was gallons worth, but Eve was able to make it happen. Morax suddenly tries to tug the water in different directions. It touches her arm, immediately sending it all over her, and onto the floor. She was doused in cold water by accident and screamed. "Ah-!! Crap! What the heck?!"

Molaris holds his belly, hunched over from laughter. Viper just lightly chuckled at Morax. Morax was visibly upset. Eve just places a fist under her chin, pondering in thought. "You were too rough. You have to be delicate with water because of its unstable form. All spells still take practice and performing them a certain way. Since I'm a performer, I probably just picked it up quickly, heh." Eve casually jokes at the end.

Morax dramatically shouts in a screeching voice. "How come you didn't get wet?!"

Viper and Molaris, both now fail to keep in their laughter. Eve tapped a foot in a sopping wet puddle. She pushes up her sleeves and checks if the base of her jacket protected her. She was fairly dry, especially compared to Morax. "Hm. I didn't try to twist the water around like you did. It just drenched my feet because I held it safely away from me a bit."

Dr. Green jumps in front of Eve, turning her back away from Morax as she was more interested in the experiment. "Wow! What a very neat trick! This could be super useful. You'll have to teach us how to do it ourselves!"

Dr. Green beams at Eve, and Eve responds to her brightness with a kind smile. "With time, most certainly. It might take years however, just for one person to try to pick up. I don't think it's super easy, but it's possible."

It was possible, Eve did it, and then-some. Eve remembers her first time starting to learn spells. She did a lot of shared spells with her mentor. And, her fire spell was one of the more risky ones she tried to do by herself. She burned her hands, but Yamehl healed them quickly so there would be no scarring. It took Eve some time, practice, and a few more scorched fingers till she got the hang of it. Eve eventually got to the point where she could alter or perform a spell to her own will and the spell's will.

Eve was powerful, more than she knew with all that knowledge. Her desire to keep improving and curiosity of modifying spells made her bright for even her mentor's praise. Although she's new to teaching, Eve could start by transferring her powers to someone else. Just like how she started learning with her mentor. However much time, and effort put into learning from Eve, was based on the other's effort. Given, it would take a long time to learn, and others teaching it would take just as long, if not more. At least now she can see for herself through a trail-run with scientists, if they can pick up on it as Eve did from a little way back when.

________________________________________

Eve opens the door to her apartment that was located next to the special unit, Sameer was waiting at the door for her once he heard the doorknob move. Eve immediately smiles and is relieved to come home to her best friend there to greet her. Eve runs over to give her large furry friend a hug. "Hi Sam~! I've missed you!"

Sam makes his funny talking noises, like he was trying to tell Eve that he is happy to see her back. She brushes his fur before walking over to the kitchen, and setting her bag down on her island counter. "I'll get dinner going and we can start off the weekend to ourselves!" She said excitedly.

As Eve cooks, dancing to tunes while doing so, she finally unwinds. She was about to eat, till she was pardoned by a knock at the door. She goes to see who it was. Sam was right by her side, both slightly cautious.

Eve peaks, but immediately opens the door surprised. "... Hello again, Agent. What are you doing here?"

It had been around a week since the last sudden visit. It might have been becoming an ongoing thing for Eve to deal with. As much as it's been happening, she didn't want the agent popping in, and outside of her door so much. But, he was standing right there at the door, cold as ever.

Agent Grey just gives a tired and gloomy response. "Sorry to disturb you after staying late at the agency, but I've been meaning to talk to you again."

Eve raises a brow. She stands in front of her doorway, crossing her arms, and tilting her head curiously. "About?"

Agent Grey sighs, "Apologizing, for troubling you."

Eve straightens her shoulders and looks at Agent Grey slightly taken back. He was troubling her now, just being there. Grey's cold, but sometimes warm. It confused her. And, whatever his real feelings and intentions were, Eve had no clue of. She still acknowledges his apology. "Well, I understand. You were forced to...."

He shakes his head and again sighs. If anything, he also didn't know they had to work together, and had to see each other often. He would have done things a bit differently, if he knew all of that beforehand. "No, I was requested to, not by complete force. It's not all that bad I can promise that, but I know it'll take getting used to. I'm sorry however, for making you distrust us so much from the start."

Eve sees his point. However, the world Eve lived in was in her head, or in her magical world. She wanted to set things right, if they weren't, she was very vocal about it. She speaks her mind even now. "Well... They make it seem like powers are a problem. They could be good, evil, or however. Long, long ago the world took care of magic like any other problem or solution. Not with having to hide it."

Eve was right, of course, Agent Grey could admit. He nods his head in thought. "Yeah... I know we're not saints. I won't even say the unit is the best, but it's better than other federal agencies that could have found you."

Eve's face goes sour for a moment, and eyes wide in shock. She asks, at the jarring idea. "Why...?"

Grey, very matter-of-fact answers, with eyes serious and cold. "Over half of the government doesn't know about our society, shocking. They try to find people with shocking abilities, for their own reasons. If some other government agency would have found you the same way we did, you would have been dealing with a lot worse than this...."

Eve drops her shoulders, more relaxed, and lets her arms fall to her sides. She had her past worries come rushing back to her mind. Eve, of course, didn't want to become a human lab-rat.

Eve seemed lost in thought. Grey barges closer to Eve, taking the first step in her apartment now. His height made her suddenly move her head slightly up to keep eye contact. His brooding expression chiseled away.

The agent surprisingly smirks, and lax gleaming in his eyes. "I get that you want to keep some things natural. I get that you've seen people fine with powers and abilities. That's... wonderful, actually. It's something even I wish I could see for myself."

Agent Grey sees Eve's eyes suddenly go wide by his last statement. She was internally screaming at him, and physically pouting angrily. Agent Grey's eyes went a bit wider as well, and he waved his hands in protest. "Eh- I meant, I just want to visit and see how a place could function so well. It must be nice to get to experience some freedom too. I don't mean I'd use it for anything, okay? Calm, I can tell what you're thinking just from your expression." He pointed at her face, and slightly scowled.

Eve drops her glare, and sighs in relief. She didn't know if him, and the agency, were clear of being a threat to magic just yet. She agrees, after all. "Sorry, habit. As lovely as it is, that's why I want to protect it so much. It... It's the most liberating and freeing place I know. It's still under a heavy crown, an emperor and empress make most decisions for the whole city."

Eve mutters to herself before explaining more. "Luckily the empress actually cares for the people and their finances... The emperor isn't the best man, the one I might have stolen Sameer from. Their son's a jerk that happens to try to spar me with a sword every time we cross paths..."

"Uh... interesting." Grey reflects, and imagines what Eve must have been through to say that. He couldn't really picture it, also because it left a ridiculous image in his mind.

Eve continues, hoping to tell some better parts that made up for it. "But, all the town's people have been the highlight. Animals run free or are used to work, they're still better cared for than most. The spaces are cozy. You can hear all the chatter, smell all the fresh goods being made, see people hard at work or parading around the market places for fun. Maybe the parading was me... hehe. I would get to perform magic and music all the time in the streets. I could shine there, in the streets, or at the magic shop!" She excitedly beamed.

Grey can picture that a little better. He can see the town, and Eve, how she describes it. "That does sound like quite a beautiful place. I bet you were just as unique as you are now. And, overly-loyal to your master...."

Eve's head shook in dismay. She angry huffs, correcting Agent Grey. "Mentor! Me-n-tor!"

Grey smirks, finding Eve's reaction priceless. His toying, making Eve flustered. He almost couldn't act seriously. "Heh, same difference. He's a grand magician, a master of magic. Right? And, you didn't deny the loyalty part." He cocked his head still giving a confident grin.

Eve's cheeks grow warmer and she babbles flustered. "I didn't get to finish! He is also my good friend. So, I get excited when I think about magic, or 'Mehl. B- because, it's been nothing less than a wonderful in the past. It's definitely the reason I might seem loyal to him. S- so, that's why...." She trails off rambling.

Grey couldn't help but roll his eyes, but he tries not to chuckle at her. "Well, you can believe that all you want. I want to hear more about the town, as fun as your mentor sounds..."

A small silence afterwards left Eve to wonder, still flustered as the dead air between them didn't help with her nerves. Eve slowly speaks up. "I... could maybe show you more of the town and city streets with my memories. That's a better visual, right?"

Grey lifts one edge of his lips upward. He breathes out, a bit curious and concerned. "Heh, think you can control that again? You weren't the best at figuring out where your mind should have been, given the circumstances."

Eve nods. She was determined, but Grey's expression turned softer. "Are you really okay with this?" He insists. Eve nods again shortly and stretches her palms out towards him.

Agent Grey brushes his fingers to Eve's palm, and his eyes change. He looks at Eve as the mystic smoke hides his eyes. He speaks in a deep and serious tone. "Just think about the people, remember what the place looked like. You'll be able to control the memories more."

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In a flash, it feels like Eve is back in Uridian, the mysterious small town she met her mentor in. She's walking around large crowds of people under tented balconies and colorful tarps. It was so bright and sunny, the cooling shade basked in all the market's goods. Eve walked closely to the food and produce vendors, one of her favorite pastimes was walking hungry around town. Her stomach's memories guided her steps.

Eve stops at a few shops to buy ingredients. She leaves and gets a glimpse of colorful smokes and a warm earthy scent. It's an older lady sitting on a corner with a small basket of interesting goods. Eve goes to her and the woman immediately grabs Eve's hand and places a wooden charm in her hands.

"Have some protection, dearie. You never know when you might run into some bad spirits." The lady said.

Eve thanks the woman and gives her change for the trinket. She wanders off to the steps by the woman, following a different path. Going up it's less crowded and buildings and bigger shops line the streets. There's restaurants and small cafes. People walk around perusing and socializing with loved ones. Eve looked around with a smile glued to her face in delight. She cradled a bag from the shops as she skips throughout the city.

A voice booms from behind Eve, stopping her in her tracks. "Oh! Why hello there, Miss Idol! Thought I'd run into you again, haha!"

Eve turns and sees someone in a red apron and uniform, with vibrant hair to match, wave and bounds up to her. She greets them, happy from the sudden surprise. "Oh, hello there Fable. Do you work around here?"

They wave frantically with a big, toothy smile. They cheered, then grabbed Eve's arm and lightly tugged her. "Yes! Care to come to my Ma's tavern and restaurant? I can cook or fix a drink for you. Come, take a break and sit for a while."

Eve wobbles a few steps and looks up at the pub's sign. It had its rustic charm with a barrel pouring liquid burned into the wood. Eve gains her balance as Fable lets go and they both stand in front of it. Fable's already going in and holding the door for Eve. She politely told, as she walked in. "I don't drink, but I could chat for a moment. I'm just taking some things back home to my mentor."

Fable knits their fingers in a tight fist. They looked to Eve with amazement in their eyes. "Oh~ Magical ingredients?"

Eve immediately giggles. She sets down her bag on a counter and turns her head to Fable. "Mostly dinner, but I got a few things we needed for the shop we were low on. Yamehl's busy, as always."

Eve holds up a jar of glowing orbs with violet translucent-looking leaves attached, they were a funny fruit called Star-Berries. She sets it down, and Fable pokes at the jar in wonder. They peep at small branches with many twisting limbs sticking out.

Fable's eyes light up, and they gasp. "Neeeat!! Can you show what they do? Pretty please? It's sooo cool when a person gets to see a magician at work." Fable was already vibrating in excitement. 

Eve rolled up her sleeves. She slightly stretched her hands and neck. "I don't want to use the ingredients I just bought, but I have a few tricks up my sleeve... Mm, would you like some music?"

Eve closes her eyes and sways her arms around her in circles. She increases the movements, strides, then spins to and forth. Warm, sunny glimmers of light follow her as she spins around the tables and seats. The glow reflects the light from outside and the room is filled with an inviting presence to the barely occupied tavern.

Eve drops her hands and waves them around like conducting an orchestra. In return, soft chimes and whistling tunes met Eve's tempo. She harmonically breathed. "Lyra, Lyra. Grazioso...."

People start crowding into the small mixed bar and restaurant. Eve starts to sing an angelic melody. As her song comes to an end, Eve spins and reaches out to the window. The golden light leaves and gets carried up into the sky from outside. Some people clap for her and she bows, then walking to the window to stick her head out and marvel at the area. She sighs happily.

Eve looks back as she's still hanging out the window. "I should be off! Can't dilly-dally for too long, hehe. Bye everyone!" Eve waves enthusiastically and is out the door. She rushes back to the herbal shop, happily skipping with dinner, ingredients, and a cool new trinket from the market to show Yamehl.

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Another vision occurs and Eve was in the middle of the square of the city. The beautiful garden and tree of life behind her as she passed through. People seem to be making way for her. As expected this is one of the times Eve's performing. She's in her element, playing a violin and lightly smacking the wood of the bow to the violin's body, making a beat. She's twirling around and skipping. Playing and sharing exchanges of glee and wonder with the bystanders. People are clapping, dancing, waving their arms, and cheering.

Eve waved her bow up, tip pointing to the sky and a swirling glow floated around and up into the air in a golden firework display. After, Eve keeps her motion going, continuing to play and sing down into the narrow streets. A crowd was following, with children and couples dancing around her and playing. Eve tries to skip and hop between people, most seeing her and making room. Some even joined the crowd following Eve deeper into the streets.

At the end of one of her songs, a small girl lightly grabs the hems of Eve's jacket. She turns and is looking down curiously. Eve's attention suddenly made the girl lose her words. She nervously said. "Um... Sorry, but are you the magician's helper?"

Eve nods excitedly. "Oh, yes, that's me! Did you need something?"

The girl passed a note over to Eve. She meekly spoke. "My grandmother's sick, she gets medicine from your shop. I'm on my way, b- but could I give you this note instead? For whenever you get back?"

Eve looks down at the note and takes it. She holds it up to the sun to read. "Medicine? I can take you to the shop! I think we might have this... I know we just got all the ingredients for it recently, for another order. Come, I'll take you and get you back to your grandma's house safely too."

The girl's features soften, a bit relieved. "Thank you... Are you sure you're not doing something?"

Eve held out her hand and waves to come along. She spins and swings a foot in the direction she just came, watching if the girl was going to follow. "I was just passing by, and passing the time. It's no trouble taking you to my mentor. He'll know how long it will take to have it ready."

She held her hands together and anxiously twisted her fingers. "T- thank you again... What's your name?"

Eve bows slightly and smiles. She then extended a hand out. "Eve, and you?"

The girl lighting grabbing her by Eve's jacket sleeve. She shyly followed behind Eve, finally introducing herself. "It's Lilian. My grandma is Miss Malar. She hasn't been able to get up to take care of herself. Me and Mama have been helping her."

Both Eve and Lilian walk to the medicine shop. Eve skipped and cheerfully gleamed. "How kind of you to help! I'm sure this medicine will get her on her feet in no time~!"

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It felt like a flash of light turned everything to night. It was empty now but Eve was not alone. Her and her mentor were making their way out of the city. Eve looked up at the familiar, and quite beautiful, vast sky. The stars were endless in a Milky Way above her. It was a breathtaking sight even in the lit up town, the lights were so little compared to the ones up above. The vivid night sky was Eve's favorite sight.

Eve walked with a raised hood out of an alley. She had caught up to the streams at the town's edge, with her mentor by her side. When they both stand next to murky waters, Yamehl kneels down, and places his hands into the waters below. He motioned for Eve to do the same. She speaks up. "... This water isn't as clean as the river's."

Her mentor chuckled briefly. "It's not. The dirt and waste that comes from the streets get pushed into the water, making them unable to be drunk out of."

Yamehl's eyes glowed a golden ray and his hands started glowing as well but white. In the water, greyish-brown water disappears around his hands. He soothingly breathes. "It is our job to make sure the water doesn't float up the stream and contaminate the rest of the supply. It also helps it so not all the bad water is pushed into the seas."

Eve kneels down and concentrates down at her own hands in the fairly grotesque waters. She begins to glow all over as well as her hands. She couldn't see her eyes of course but even in memory, she knows now they're glowing blue. Especially at night, they gave off a golden glitter. The water quickly became clear around her, she swished her hands around to spread it around.

Yamehl looks over and smiles warmly at his apprentice. "That's excellent. Your light magic is amazing for this. Pure, like light, it helps the waters get cleansed."

Eve looked over her shoulder at her mentor inquisitively. "What do you usually do?"

Yamehl cleans the waters with his glowing hands as they talk. He responded as he reached further into the cold channel of water. "Go around until all this water flowing out looks clear again. Maybe in a month's time we'll have to do this again. Luckily, it hasn't been bad as of late."

Eve lays on the ground and dives her whole arms in. Her robe now drenched and sleeves soping. She playfully swished her arms around, disturbing the water's calm surface. She all at once kicked her feet out and cheered warmly. "Magic... is so beautiful! The ability to do this is remarkable. I- I wish more places did this! Clean water, give life back, cure diseases, so forth."

Yamehl takes a hand from out of the water and flicks it dry with some heat magic. He then takes his clean, dry hand to rub the top of Eve's head gently. "Heh, I hope so too. May the stars one day grant it... I'm grateful they at least gave me an apprentice that thinks the same. By the next generation, I hope they too get to meet someone like you."

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Eve is inside of the large palace. Her, Yamehl, and many other guests dressed fancy, crowded under pillars and a tall, dome ceiling. It was very colorful and vibrant, flowers, streamers, and people littered the place with sights.

Eve and her mentor wore similar suits, but hers was light, and his was a dark attire with many charms on him. Eve sees some color ribbon fly by her face. She looks up to see people, delicately twirling and wrapping themselves in fabric above the heads of the party goers. Eve grabs her mentor's jacket and points up above. "Yamehl? What's that?! Oh my stars!! It looks so fun!!"

Her mentor looks at Eve, and eyes upward at the display. Yamehl smiled back at Eve's wonder, answering. "Their silk dancers and traipse artists. They use ribbons and cabling tied to the ceiling to do all their tricks."

Eve clasped her hands together, holding tightly, as if having to stop herself from running off to look at the sights. She jumps from one side of her mentor to another, looking around. It was the most elegant party she's ever seen. The one usually making wonders and entertaining people, was amazed herself.

"It's a party fit for royalty." A booming voice joins in from behind Eve. Turning around to meet them, unexpectedly, the emperor stood.

Eve's smile immediately drops, her mouth now agape. She stopped herself, and tried to act calm. "Oh- your highness, good evening."

Eve bows, and keeps her head down for a moment, so she can see Yamehl bowing as well. They both look up and the emperor officially welcomes them. "Hello Shaman, and my humble guests. Are you enjoying the party?" He grins confidently, much as one with his power would have.

Eve answers, not meeting his eye, but trying to sound pleasant. "It's been a beautiful sight. Thank you for having us..."

He chuckles with a sick notion. "Would you care to see more? I have a beautiful collection of pets in the other ballroom, a gallery of all the gems in the world, and every room is filled with entertainment for tonight. Come with me, I bet you could muster the courage to see some of even the wildest of beasts."

For a moment, it strikes Eve eerily making her feel like something wasn't right. But, she didn't know if she could say 'no' to a man like him. "S- sure, your highness. Lead the way...."

The emperor leads them to another room, with large doors guarded by heavy tall doors. He waved and opened the door to usher both Eve and Yamehl into his special room. Immediately something struck Eve as unnerving. Cages were everywhere, birds out and flying around, or in smaller cages as well.

The emperor brandished the room by pointing his hand around. "Have a look, almost every animal and different species in one roof. The largest elephant, to the most colorful of birds! The softest, to the most ferocious types!" He goes deeper into the room, stopping at one cage in particular. "Take a look at my newest to my collection, a rare white tiger!"

The tiger laid there in its cage, looking tired. Its shackles slacked, not having been eager to lash out or try to escape. The emperor looks at it and grumbles. He grabs a whip from the wall and opens the cage, about to strike the tiger. "C'mon, get up already!..."

Eve flinched by the slight of the whip. She couldn't think but reacted. She ran up and tried to intervene. Eve grabbed the emperor by his hand that was about to strike the tiger with the whip. He batted her away with a fist. She fell over on the ground by the no-so vicious tiger. "What on earth are you doing?!"

Eve gets up on one knee and throws down a fire capsule tucked away in her pocket. She stomped a foot between the emperor and the tiger, with only her being lit in flames. She waved her hands out and obscured his path in a fiery blockade. "STOP!!" Eve threatened to get closer. Her voice broke as she screamed in anguish. "DON'T HURT IT!!"

The emperor retreated back slightly. He spat with venom building in his veins. "It's a killer tiger! Don't stand so close to it, you naive girl! I'll have you and it rotting in the dungeons! GUARDS!!"

Eve extinguished the flames and rushed over to the worn, newly encountered tiger. It looked at her, their eyes sad, calling out for help. She used an ice crystal and broke the chains on the shackles of the tiger. The tiger suddenly leapt over her and now was guarding Eve.

"Eve, quick!! This way!!" Her mentor shouted from next to an open balcony. A way outside, a way out. Eve rushes the tiger and herself over to her mentor. She stares as the ground below had people under her, she couldn't leap away. Looking behind at the guards now chasing her. She pans around for a way out.

The tiger nudges Eve's side, pointing with his head to her, then his back. He was signaling for her to hold onto him. Eve wasn't quite sure but she saw the tiger arching back and ready to leap. She jumps on carefully, trying not to hurt them. The tiger takes a slow first step, but then charges and leaps up over the railing, just missing swords of some guards by a second.

People look above at the soaring tiger in shock and gasps. Eve helps by making them lighter by using her powers, and they start to glow and glide away. They ascend far enough and safely back onto the ground. They continue to run through the streets and Eve looks as the sights of the city slowly lessen, till it was out of sight in what seemed like minutes. All that's left is a sparkling white trail coming from both of them.

Eve lets out a small whimper and continues to ride on the tigers back. "Yamehl... I didn't say goodbye... I promise, I'll contact you as soon as we're safe."

She taps the tiger and he slowed, looking up at her. She hopped off and walked beside him, now safe enough from being followed. She lightly brushed the tiger's dirty fur. "Poor thing... You don't deserve a jerk like that ruler. I'll help you find your home. Or, at least somewhere better than in the palace...."

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Eve feels the sudden change and she is back in the present. She's not sick like the last time, but spaced out somewhere else. Sameer comes up, but Eve doesn't look down. Sam brushes Eve worried, and she snaps out of her trance. Eve pets her tiger companion softly.

Grey watches with a puzzled look. He looks at Sam. Sameer looks at him curiously. "That's how you found... him? At a party?"

It was, and the beginning of their inseparable bond. The beginning might have lasted for many days and nights, till they found a port in a completely different city. Along that, she learned over talking to Sam that he would nod or shake his head to 'yes' and 'no' questions. She started to understand, Sameer was very unique. She didn't know if the emperor knew of it, or if he was just interested in the rare colored fur.

Eve nods. "Yes, and Sam ended up staying with me! My mentor also told me that there were wanted posters of me. Just because I saved an animal from cruelty. I'm sure that broke the heart's of the people living there to see...." She looks down at her tiger friend, saddened herself.

Her honesty, and her memories, made Grey feel like he's already seen what the town's like. With Eve's last memory, he sees its cons to being there. Even Grey felt Eve's fear when the emperor showed up. "I see. Well, so it has its perks. Also its downsides, like anywhere else."

Eve beams at Grey, delighted to hear his understanding. "Correct. It still holds a dear place in my hear. I love Uri- ahem, the town. It's a funny name heh... You know it better as 'The Town' that I love so much, haha~." She nervously laughed.

Eve awkwardly brushed off her slip up. She gets a bit vulnerable for a moment, and Grey just takes advantage of the situation to tease. "Hm... You sure you just don't 'love' the magic shop and your mentor more? Seems like all your memories are strongest about it."

Eve's face dropped as she processed. For a moment looking dumbfounded, then wide and flustered. "Ye- yes! It's everything, not just one thing! I just spent most of my time in the shop, and with 'Mehl. It's just that, and my amazement from magic, that resonates so strongly with me..."

There was hesitation in Eve's voice denying it. Grey raises a brow. He lets out an unamused, "Mhmm....", not buying it.

Eve feels like she can't lie to Agent Grey. She couldn't just brush his toying of the subject off any longer. "I'll just say... I love the town and... my mentor, he's.... He's... sort of... technically-my-first-love-. I've-never-dated-a-person-and-I-didn't-want-to-ruin-our-frien-!!" She breaks, rambling and admitting to everything, like a child confessing to a bad deed.

Agent Grey starts to wave his hands to stop her, then grabs Eve to finally shut her up. "Okay! OKAY!! Stop, I get it. It's fine. I was just teasing you. Sorry for pushing too much. Just. Breathe. Alright?"

He lets go and huffs. Eve tries to inhale a deep breath. She pardons herself, still a bit flustered. "S- sorry... I got carried away. I'm not used to having a crush, or talking about it. My memories might just be me reliving my pipe-dreams... Just thinking of all the adventures we'd have together...."

If Grey was wrong to assume, Eve was doubting herself just then. He might have not been able to translate her speedy response at first, but he started to understand. "Pipe-dreams are different from reality. You really like him, and I think he likes you back."

Eve's eyes flash wide. She blinks and tries to make Grey explain. "... You know what he's thinking?... Without knowing or using your power on him?"

Grey huffs and rolls his eyes. He then makes vague quotations with his hands for Eve to understand. "He said, 'don't forget me', 'I'll protect you', 'I am grateful to have you', 'you're my precious little apprentice' I've just taken in randomly, same bloody age as me! You two are both oblivious...". It might've not been accurate but he did bring up a fair point.

Eve tries to excuse Grey's assumptions. Eve thinks she knows more, of course, but her feelings say otherwise. She sighs and looks down. "He's 32... Regardless... I was just worried he meant it because I'm the only one that understood him too. It might have just been a like-minded admiration...."

Grey's brow was getting a workout from doubting Eve so much. She wasn't the best liar, even to herself. It all just came out as excuses. He exhales, sounding judgmental, but only to keep teasing her. "Yeah... Does he always play with your hair then?"

Eve waves her arm in a childish protest. She corrects him, without taking time to think first. "He gives me head pats when I do a good job!"

Grey rolls his eyes and momentarily shakes his head. "Okaaay... Still weird." He let out a loud sigh, mentally taking a moment to backtrack. He was surprisingly getting serious again, and the brooding look was back. It wasn't his intent to ask about Eve's love life, or lack of one. It might have gotten off track, since the originally avoided topic was eventually brought up.

Eve had been talking about her mentor so much. Grey also might have messed with her a few too many times. It felt inevitable, but now was not the time. He groans annoyed. "My god, the point of coming here wasn't to interrogate you... I'll leave you be now. I'm sorry for over-staying..."

Eve turns back to her new living place. She takes glances at Grey as he turns away to exit, then the kitchen for a moment. "Hm... I just made dinner, but there's plenty to spare, if you'd like to sit and eat something."

Grey turns, and waves a hand, solemnly opposing. "You've already shown enough hospitality to me. I owe you plenty already."

"You can put it on your tab, if you have one, hehe." Eve pats a seat and skootches the chair out. She skips to go get a fresh plate with whatever was leftover. Grey hesitantly walks over and sits down. Eve also forks a bit of her own plate onto his and serves it. She sits back and smiles, then digging back into her meal she almost forgotten she's made.

Grey takes a moment to wonder if at any point he said 'no' to Eve. He didn't directly, as he maybe should have. He looks down and tries not to look a bit overwhelmed. They talk for a moment, and his stubbornness subsides. It seemed like they were able to be more casual between the two future partners.

"So..." Agent Grey paused, raising the question. "... You never had a crush growing up?"

Eve almost chokes, and eyes go wide as spheres. She confesses, wiping her face and hiding her face in a napkin. "... Not since I started my internet-tainment career, as silly as that was when I was young. I took it very seriously! I was too focused on music and school. Then, after discovering my powers, it became difficult to let people in fully. Even though I was trying to put myself and knowledge out there...."

Grey waves a fork at Eve, perplexing at the situation. For someone so bubbly and out there, the one thing she didn't think about, even when writing about it, was love. It was hard for him to see her so lonely actually, for someone so compassionate for people. "And, your mentor is your only crush, that you've kept hushed for... how long?"

Eve looks away blushing. Her voice goes a bit quieter, embarrassed to admit. "... Since the first three, to almost four years living there...."

That meant it had been almost a decade since Eve had her first crush, and on her mentor. Grey held a fist to his lips, suddenly looking very deep in thought. In reality, he wasn't sure he was slightly to pity her or to laugh. He felt like both at once and was trying to hold it all back.

Eve brushes away her love woes, and Grey's gaze. She opened up about her own trust issues. "Mm, I just surprisingly don't have many close to me. Yamehl was really the first for that, maybe the second. My designer, Rin, had been like an older sibling, even though they travel a lot for work. And, Sam has been the magical companion that's been by my side now. I only have a few beside me, and they're like family." On cue, Sameer brushes up against her, and Eve petted him as she sat at the dining table.

Agent Grey sighs into a bite of food, out of his own pity. "Still, it must be nice. I could say the agency is like family, but it's quite the headache to deal with sometimes. Everyone calls me the angry old man... Don't you dare start either."He eyes her, warning.

Eve joked in a cocky tone. "Psh, yet I'm going to have to be your partner someday? What do you even do now?"

Grey was actually a top notch agent, but he's a lone authoritative figure. Not every agent needs a partner, but one with his experience should, and just as high ranked. Grey still defends himself. "I'm still work as I've normally done. I just haven't needed a partner for a while... Listen, if we're entrusting each other with information, I might as well tell you a secret, this time."

The mood suddenly got serious. Eve nods, willing to hear him out. Grey doesn't look at her. Instead, his glaze paused on the floor for a moment, till he tried to look coolly. "When I first started as an agent, I had a partner. He... 'was' my best friend. We were in the academy together, and in boarding school. We both developed a bond that made us a really great team. Till...."

The room remained silent as Agent Grey wore an unreadable expression. His mouth was ajar, unable to let out anything. He purses his lips, after failing to speak. He breathes a more calm and somber tone. "... One day, we were on a mission that killed him from a rogue explosion. Along with several other casualties... We were a couple years into our partnership. After being discharged for a moment, I requested not to have a partner for my missions. After almost a decade, they finally tried to get me to work with someone else, but I would refuse."

Eve's expression was soft and sincere. She understands the heartbreak that mourning has. "I'm... really sorry. I know it's never a good feeling to have someone you care about greatly pass on. I'm so sorry they were killed."

Grey sighs and leans on his chair. He felt crappy but better, now that he's told Eve. "It's fine now. I trust I can tell you this, as a warning just in case something happens in the future. I might still get hot-tempered and freak out, but I'll try not to."

The idea of being Grey's partner was ridiculous, but started to make more sense. At least to why he hadn't had a partner already. Eve just didn't know why she was chosen, but just went with it now. "Heh, but hey, at least you know you get angry. You worry about something happening again. As much as I'm certain yelling solves, you have your way of showing concern."

Grey eats and nods as he looks down. "Hmph, exactly. It's not like anyone wants to be in a situation like that, let alone have it happen again. It's a risky job, yes, but we still don't have agents keeling over dying left and right. It was shocking for the whole unit to hear... Getting shot is most of our worries and we wear protection just as any other officer, sometimes more. We even have the best medicines and a healer. But, new topics now... Thank you, again, for a nice meal. I wanted to apologize again, and possibly invite you to explore a few places outside that are safe for S.O.U. members. I could show you some spots that are reserved to freely use their powers in. They're more closed off from onlookers outside."

Eve pouts, tilting her head and looking at the agent inquisitively. She rephrased the remark, just to be certain. "There's places... I can use magic in?"

Grey sternly agrees and sighs. "Yes. Magic, powers, whatever the hell to call them. You can talk amongst users, along with using abilities in a safe environment, outside of here and the unit. As long as you don't do anything dangerous, of course. Another thing about powers and using them outside, that privilege can get revoked if you break important rules."

Eve ushered for him to continue. "Which are?"

Grey points at Eve, assuming she'll need to really listen. "No harming bystanders, or exposing abilities to 'non-users'."

Eve flashes a smile, carefree. "Easy enough. And, I'll stop showing off magic, so yeah."

Grey nods lightly and turns his gaze away. "Good... If you want, we can also stop by a bakery not far from here. I could pay you back for a meal with something... sweet maybe?"

Eve's eyes lit up. Even though they're already eating, Grey's got her attention. She brings up a question. "Is the bakery a secret agent spot?"

Grey chuckles in response, but then drops back to serious. "No... but there's one across the street from it. It's by the park, so there's lots of things one can do while going out."

Eve's eyes keep sparkling. She was in the middle of eating, but even left the fork on her mouth. She gleefully screamed, attempting to finish what was in her mouth, and then uttering. "Oooh yes!! I love parks!! Can Sam come? I know a way to cloak him, if we can take him along too!"

Agent Grey exhales questionably. He shakes his head. As if the idea couldn't possibly work, and Eve just spoke nonsense to him. "Uh... I really don't know about bringing a large tiger around a bunch of people...."

Eve disputes, explaining to hopefully convince him. "I've done it lots before, no one screamed or ran away~ The thing about a cloaking spell, people still see you but it's as if you're just part of a background. If they try to look at you, they suddenly lose focus and see past you. They then forget or move on. Like when you think you saw something strange, but it's immediately gone in an instant to tell. They work on people and animals too."

Grey provokes Eve with more questions. He wanted to know most of the spell, since there could be rules and circumstances along with them. "Well, how long does it last, and does it affect everyone the same way?"

Eve shakes her head and explains. "It lasts a while, then fades, and no, not exactly. There's a level to how well the spell works, based on the person. Someone might be smart enough to see through it. I can also physically try to grab your attention so the spell is impossible to combat. Sam and I, I think, have a contradiction to the rule, because we're constantly together when we go out. If either of us runs off, we can still see each other."

Grey almost wavers the thought, but declines. "If there's a chance of getting caught, I wouldn't abide by it. That explains some things though... Reports have mentioned, well, how you were only discovered quite recently. And the tiger was only seen in videos. They didn't think much of someone making videos since they can easily be altered. Not until they sent an agent to check some suspicions, when you were doing a performance outside."

Eve now knows the point of her magic-downfall. A blessing and curse to show the world its hidden wonders. She was only trying to open the world's eyes for something greater. "Hm. Yes, well some of my true fans know I can do some magical things. They don't know how to explain it themselves, since I'm so obscure and quirky about relieving it. I sometimes say it's a 'magic trick', in which it's true but no one understands it means literal magic these days. It's old knowledge, but still all around us."

Grey leans his head to the side on a propped fist, with his elbow on the table. He shrugs and no nods to Eve's statements, and waves his hand as he responds. "Fair said, I understand how it's like universal coding, like natural law. We definitely are steering away from the old and natural. Probably an issue to why not many people understand this. Besides the ones that have been living in places fairly uncharted from the rest of the world. It's... still new and kind of risky for someone who's never seen this stuff before."

Grey looks up at Eve in a serious brow-raise. He was a man of not liking risk. However, she was a risk-seeker, and tries to find answers whenever she had questions. It did spell well for the two.

Eve tried to prove a point that the agency, and Grey, were missing. Her voice was a bit saddened by her own words. "Humans are just a small fraction yet we hold such a hierarchy over us, don't we? Humans have taken a lot of the reins here, sadly. The world cannot be ranked of its creatures but be seen as a whole system working together. Really, it's the universe that's just one system, but I digress. It's not something unnatural, or even foreign. It's just the basis of life itself."

Grey looks into Eve's eyes with a bit of sorrow. He abruptly warned. "You're definitely not wrong about some things. You understand a lot more than most do. You know more about powers than some of the top directors and influentials out there. You may find things you don't agree with, having to be in a new system. So, try to keep calm and find the best solution. It's a lot to ask of you, when you're not even out of training yet, but try to be safe."

Eve agrees with a soft smile. "I'll try. I really don't like combat though, I'd gladly ace the written test proportions."

Grey remarked. "Hm, but you're not that bad in combat either. Maybe a bit snappy at test takers, but you scored above average. You could have done a lot more, but I assume it was overwhelming at first."

Eve rolls her eyes. She speaks with a slight annoyance as she complains. "You have to know everything about me?"

Grey looks occupied as he forks his plate, and coldy acknowledges. "Basically. I'm still monitoring you, in case something happens, or you do something the board doesn't like. They want to make sure you can be trusted too. It's a whole system of everyone needing to gain one's trust."

Eve finishes her meal. She goes to kneel beside Sameer and plays with his fur. "What do you even on your time off?" She chuckled, wondering if he does anything but work. Which was an unlikely assumption. 

Agent Grey ran a hand through his hair and composedly listed his to-do's. "Mostly working even on breaks, working out, and training. I'll still keep up with more of my daily tasks around the apartment." He bored out, as 'fun' as it sounded.

Eve leans on her counter and charismatically idols. "Sounds like you need a day out too. Need a refresher from your cycle once and awhile."

Unable to unwind himself, Grey just defeatedly gives in. "I do. Ugh, never mind... Fine, let's go out tomorrow. We'll all go." He suddenly looks at Sam, insinuating for him to join as well.

Eve jumped up and cheered. Sameer even smiles with his lips curved upwards. Grey just sighs and puts a hand to his face. "I'm going to regret this..."

When Eve woke up, she had just slept on a jet the whole flight to their destination. Eve, Sameer, and the agent had already made it to New York City, and landed on the rooftop of the agency. They were sent to go down and check in within the 'headquarters' of the S.O.U.

Eve was sent to the office of the director, head of the agency in America, as soon as they landed. Agent Grey showed the way as she got a first glance inside the agency building. He left as soon as he showed her the door, to change and report off duty from his completed mission. For Sameer, he and Eve's belongings were sent to her new apartment that the unit had already set up for her.

Already quickly moving along, after being shown where, Eve opens the door to the office of the director. She looks around the office surrounded with bookshelves, some full of books, some large binders with 'Report #' some odd, and then dates. There was a wide space between where the desk was placed in front of Eve. She walks a bit closer to two chairs facing the desk. On the other side of the desk, the director sat in a chair in front of his computer working, till he smiled and faced Eve.

Eve sits down nervously and places a tote bag onto the floor, and stares wearily at the director silent. He seemed younger than she expected. She didn't know much, but Grey mentioned briefly to her that he's been in the agency for decades. The director had a few grey hairs slicked in his long, chestnut hair, and peppered stubble that showed a bit of age to him. His eyes, vibrant light, faded purple. He seemed more lax than Agent Grey, wearing no tie, but he wore a wine colored vest. His shirt wasn't fully buttoned, sleeves rolled exposing tanned skin. They didn't seem very serious, whether that was good or not. The director didn't seem as cold as the agent was, luckily.

The director stares back at Eve for a moment, then warmly greets her with a smile. "Good morning Miss Evanara, Okamoto. I'm Director Oracle. I will be your chief in charge of this branch of the Special Operations Unit. We welcome you to the S.O.U. and hope you'll enjoy your new life here."

Eve gives a forced smile. She tries to be polite, if only she had the confidence to show it. Staring down the room, looking at any information about where she was. Only books and file names stacked on shelves, certificates hung, and the desk full of folders labeled 'classified'. Nothing gave Eve enough information to go off of. "... Can I ask, what is it that the S.O.U. needs 'special abilities' for?"

Director Oracle keeps smiling and gestures to the window, outside, and then between them. "Very forward. To put it simply, we want to keep the existing world stable. We don't want rare abilities to be in the wrong hands or bring harm to those who possess powers. In the past, some places have been... unkind to people with rare abilities, so we protect our people, as well as the general public."

Eve looks at the director, still not amused with the same speech she heard from Grey the night before. Director Oracle brought up a clipboard with papers clipped together. He grabs a pen and focuses back on Eve. He explains. "I'll run through a lot of the course. You'll go through some training. You'll also be given exercises showing how you use your powers, once we figure out what you can and can't do. We'll want to track your abilities for your record and future work. You'll be assigned to the best fitting position for your ability. You'll learn the steps we go through in targeting mass threats, and things inexplicable."

Eve clutches her hands close to her. The possibilities of what could happen in training and I'm the Unit seemed like it was going to be a challenge. Eve couldn't bear the idea very well. "Sounds very dangerous...." She uttered.

Her faint outburst was admissible. The director understands Eve might be afraid, as many have been at first. However, with the organization, and his own experience that eventually got him to his position proved it wasn't all terrible. "It can be but you'll learn everything there is to handle missions. We do handle some hard tasks but we are trained in the best safety. We don't want our agents, along with everyone else here getting hurt on the job. Now, as for the rules, you are to never give out information about work here at the S.O.U. Not under any circumstances can you tell anyone of your missions. Also, no using or talking about powers in public. No jeopardizing mission, don't be too risky or cause harm to bystanders. No general illegal acts. Most things will be covered in training. If you have any questions, ask myself, or any advisor."

The room is silent and Director Oracle flips through to a page, then flips it back to the first in the matter of seconds. "Now, we'll go through a short evaluation. We will want to record any abilities you may have knowledge of. You have been previously recorded using... fire, fireworks, light-rays, light-beams, possible swiftness, ice, snow, and water. Do you know anything about how you use these?"

Eve nods. She grabs into a bag she had brought and retrieves the books from before. "Yes, quite a bit and Agent Grey told me to bring in these books I've used. I've been learning to translate and practice some of the spells in these books... With the help of worldly natives to these old records, of course. It may just be due to my odd ability. I can use light but with some knowledge, and materials, I can do more than what I'm capable of."

Oracle jots down, then taps onto his paper. "You've studied a lot but how did you start searching about powers and these abilities?"

Eve opens a book and flips through pages to the different abilities one can try to recreate. She points to pictures of people and elements. She goes to the back of the book, where she had some old notes taped to the inside of the cover. "Honestly... I was freaking out when my powers first appeared. I couldn't explain why it was happening. I felt like I needed to run and hide. That was hard for someone like me to fully do. It took a lot of discovery and wandering, which I was going to continue, until now... I found that some, more hidden places, had people, or knowledge of one's just like me. I assembled whatever I could find from my countless searching. It ended up being good use and practice for gimmicks and tricks I do for my acts. I just would perform and add a little magic into it, like a real magician... of sorts. It would bring more smiles and wonder. Never for harm, or greed, I promise."

Oracle continues to write. Occasionally looking up at her for a few moments, concentrating, and focusing back to writing it all down. "I see, so after learning you can glow, you learned how to use other powers from other sources. What did you use other than the books? Also why study these?"

Eve closes the books and hugs it delicately. "I guess I don't have a solid explanation, besides I felt the magic. They were called to me... or I was called to them, and things would just happen. I learned a lot from going to many places around the world to non-modernized civilizations. Learn their ways, helping the people, finding some things about the history that kept their beliefs in old ancient arts. I used ingredients from the book to make spells of different powers, many things of earth, quite rare now..."

The director waves hand to see the book. Eve carefully reaches the book over, making sure she was delicate with the old book that had a torn, worn spine. He tries to be just as careful as the director flips threw it once, then again with eyes flashing a white. After his eyes flashed, he places it back on the desk, closest to Eve. If he was able to read it, he might not know what everything meant, especially what tools and terminology was used for general magic. "Many powers or anomalies have been popping up, all over the world. Many kept places, even in Japan, have recordings of powered people and objects. I'm sure you started your search there first."

In reality, Eve held on till she finished off the rest of her senior year of high school to go on hiatus and run off to be a wanderer. Eve couldn't hide in Japan. She didn't want to stick in the same places Eve could be recognized in.

Eve evades by vaguely thinking about what she might have thought before the desert events. "Y- yes... I tried to see at first if there was anything about people that would glow. I only found old tales of forest beings or ethereal angels disguised as humans. It wasn't much for my search, so I decided to travel more for answers, till one day I finally found some breakthroughs."

The director tilts his head in question. "And, you've only used it for performing?". He ponders for a moment, thinking of what luck it was she found all of her findings. It was something never brought back to them in a report, or not everyone could get accused of. And, before becoming a researcher of these special books and spells, Eve was an entertainer. She sang and danced, not a quality for being an adventure either, but she was full of spirit, and surprises it seemed.

Edging her lips with a natural grin in thinking of performing. Eve, now confidently answering. "Yup! Maybe for random things to help me out but most intentionally for my work. Well, side-work now, I guess...." She looked down nervously at that statement.

The director looks at his paper, intrigued. "So, you've shown 'magic' while performing. Have you admitted to most of your powers, or does anyone know of your abilities?" He wanted to go over Grey's notes. Grey had added more to Eve's original case sometime when she was sleeping.

Eve suddenly cradles back in her seat a bit, nervous. If the agent kept his promise, the director shouldn't know about her mentor. She excludes the idea of who she's 'shown' but still spoke honestly. "I've only told one human and one tiger, heh. My costume designer knows and has been keeping it a secret for years...."

The director grabs his pen again and writes, with his clipboard set on his desk. He then pats the pen down and looks back at Eve. The director's expression was serious but not as serious as Agent Grey's. It was a much more friendly face to interact with. It may have not put Eve at ease, but she was less intimidated. "So, we'll want to make sure of your power and your involvement at the S.O.U. stay secretive. We'll have to contact your designer and check to make sure they'll keep the secret. They will be liable for any spilled secrets as a federal offense and will be convicted of treason."

Eve waves her arms frantically, signaling in protest. "B- but they would never! They've kept their word about it already!"

The director nods, understanding. "Well, we don't trust a federal secret with just one claim, even if it seems assured. We'll need to make sure with them, ourselves."

Eve pleads for the director to reconsider. She didn't want someone, a non-ability user, to be dragged into her mess she's made. "L- let me be involved, I know they'll respond better to me. If I just talk to them, they'd still take my word over others and comply more. They trust MY word, very, very much. They are like family to me."

Director Oracle gives a quick nod. He gestures to go on with it like he's not there, writing everything down. "Give them a call now, see if they'll talk. You can let them know, a special  agency would like to contact them. Just a friendly chat, not to worry about that of course."

Eve rummages through her pockets for her phone and dials. Before she gives her designer friend a call, she checks with the director. "What do I tell them if they ask why, or what I'm doing now? Or where I am suddenly?..."

The director calmly answers. "The most you can say is that you work as a federal agent, and that you can't tell them anything else other than that."

"O- okay...." Eve hushes. She waits as the dial tone rings, and Rin picks up. Eve hears a tired voice from the other line greet her.

Eve answers back, talking to her designer in their native language. "Rin? Sorry it's getting late, I need to talk to you for a moment... I'm fine... Something's come up and I have to go on a sudden break. I wanted to call you for an important reason... Remember my secret? I need you to keep it safe, safer than before. I've been found of sorts... I don't think I'll be able to perform much for a while...."

There's a long pause as Eve is bombarded with questions on the other line. "I'm fine! A- actually, I'm already having to start a new job soon."

Eve pulls her phone away from her ear, her phone was practically vibrating from the other side yelling at top volume. She nervously tries to listen to their designer's reaction. They weren't handling it as well as she would of hoped.

'EEEVE!! I'M ABOUT TO HAVE A HEART ATTACK!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING RIGHT NOW? WHERE ARE YOU? WHAT ON EARTH IS GOING ON?! ARE YOU GOING ON ANOTHER HIATUS?!'

Eve brings her phone back to ear again, worried. She apologized. "I'm really sorry! I wasn't given much of a notice... I was told not even a day ago, and I had to pack, move, and start-."

From the other line immediately came a loud, 'WHAT?!'. Almost deafening Eve.

Eve knew this wasn't going to be taken lightly. She only hoped she could explain herself. Especially to Rin, who she's known for years now, and they can be pretty emotional sometimes.

Eve's voice raises, from hearing loss and trying to be able to be heard. "I- I swear I'm fine! This is why I was only able to call right now!... My secret is something that might be at stake now, so I'm no longer showing my magic. There's people I'm going to be working for that just want to contact you, to make sure we can both be trusted with 'that' secret. I know you haven't said anything... I- I promise! I'm fine! I'm going to be an agent... If my secret goes out, it could spell trouble down the road... Since you know, they have to contact you too...."

'That is crazy! Eve, what the heck?'

Rin argues loudly, but less deafening. Eve agrees however. "It IS crazy. I guess, what's really new for me.... I'm just so sorry, Rin. You'll be fine, try not to be pressured by it, and go back to how it's normally been. You and I can't talk about it much anymore. Sadly, I can't show tricks either. I hope things will be okay. I don't believe you will be in danger, but for whatever reason, if I ever have people after me I'll try to make sure you'll be protected."

The director chimes in, to Eve's surprise. "I might like to add, we will protect them, and your secret from being targeted. If we ever have any raised suspicions, we'll make sure they will be under our watch. If they are also suspicious of anything, we will know."

Eve tilts her ear back to her designer on the other line, and partly translates the director's mention. "... Actually, I know you will be protected if a threat happens. But... things are getting very serious. I'll try to call and message you whenever I can. Just know if anything happens to me-... I promise I won't try to get killed!"

The director gave Eve a pursed grin, he hoped to not be rude to interrupt again. They had a schedule, for both him, and Eve to keep. "Try to wrap this up, if you can. We still have more to discuss. We can continue this at another time."

"... Rin? I'll try to message you whenever I have a free day. I'll let you know if I'm okay or not. They'll uh, call you, b- but it'll be alright! I- I'm sorry again about this sudden change... Just know you've been the best person I could have asked to work with. You're the best big sister I would have asked for too. I hope your other projects go well and you take some time off of making outfits for me.... Mhm, take care too, I promise I'll try too... Message you soon... Bye-bye, Rin."Eve huffs tired once she hangs up. She's already drained, and now more worried.

The director goes back to writing on this clipboard and speaking. "So, your friend will be entrusted with information now classified. We'll contact them soon for a small statement, and to insure nothing will come from them knowing. Perhaps it won't happen while you're here, but since we are an international organization, we still deal with threats and data-leaks. We have the highest security to make sure everyone here is safe at all times, and we keep it up to date from new bugs and hacking. We here plan to make sure no information brings you or the public at risk, your friend included."

If she wasn't a liability doing her own thing before, Eve had a lot on the line to keep in check. Keeping secrets, having powers, protecting loved ones, and working under a secret government agency. What was Eve to do with it all? It all jumbled in her head, the only thing that strongly sided with her, was fear. As well as many questions. "So... What will I do?"

The director observes his clipboard, and Eve. With the information that she's given him, the director relies. "Given your abilities to use multiple elements, you have a higher rank of powers that usually lead to our main unit that goes out on the scene. You have a great ability, and you'll have more training on hiding it and using it for tasks in your missions. Missions can be from tracking down suspects, protecting other government secrets, to being the first to engage with any opposing forces."

Eve nods meekly, fretting each task she was leaning towards a position in. She might have a good power, but she personally is not sure if she's fit to do all of that. She didn't want to deal with anything that opposed her, or the agency. She was fit but had zero fighting experience. All she did was dance and do acrobatics, which was better than nothing.

Taking his clipboard, and flipping over to a completely new page of information to fill, the director adds a few details to Eve's worker file. He looks over to Eve, she awaits for his next question. He propose a few next exercises to go through. "We still don't know much of your ability and knowledge. I'll give you some 'prompts', in a way. Use or say whatever comes to mind that you know you've used."

The director gives a short smile, then speaks while noting Eve's expressions. "Now, let's start with something hopefully easy. If you need to make a fire right now, how would you?"

Eve drops her shoulders, discouraged. It was a difficult first question, one she couldn't just show without a little magic to help her. If only she brought a herb or fire capsule she should have had for example. She only brought the books and martials for a few harmless spells. She didn't want to seem like she brought something of a weapon into the agency.

Eve explains her answer. "Eh? W- well... I would need a flame, like a match or open fire, or use a spell to make one out of thin air. Usually it involves a crystal that has fire elements in it, along with a dried plant that acts like a reagent. I have fire capsules I can use to then bend the element with."

The director jots that down. "Interesting. You'll have to show me some of these, they could be important for our researchers. We still don't fully understand random occurrences, powered items, and the many more out there. But, it is our job to learn and keep things together, one could say. So, where did you discover these items?"

Eve remembers a lot about where these special items came from. Some were right from the heart of Uridian, others were all over the world. There weren't as many shipments, but not everything for magicians came in from one place. Her mentor would sometimes have to venture out to get ingredients, but Eve had not known exactly where their location was every time.

Eve shifts her eyes away meekly. "Well... I went to many isolated towns and markets on several continents. With my powers and the books from various places, I looked for what some ingredients were, or could have been. Just trying to find stuff that worked, and look around for more in that area. Years went by and I found enough discoveries, so much I was able to get better at it. I even experimented outside of what some books had written down as spells."

The director stops and looks at Eve, pondering. "What did you want to achieve from all of this?"

Eve thinks and fidgets in her seat. To Eve, it was something subconscious to her, not something she acted on. If she can't say who taught her, she had to rely on what she was taught with. "... To solve my curiosity? I just really wanted to make 'magic' a real thing. Some things didn't click at first, but pieces started coming together. Then, I just tried whatever I had a recipe or spell for..."

The director nods, thinking he's understanding her. The fact that she didn't quite understand it was genuine, that he could see. Magic was an enigma, with many, many questions still unsolved. "So, you can only use some things with your powers and some with the aid of something else's?"

With the director's understanding, she feels assured with how calm he's being about the information. For one, she hopefully doesn't seem crazy. Another is that the agency didn't seem forceful or greedily finding out information for her. "Yes! It's like using someone else's magic to make something. That's why I need the ingredients for more than just making a healing water, fireball, or just a sleepy tea. I needed something for fire, or I think it took some time... but, I couldn't use normal fire before, like I can now. And... I've made some things not in the book, so I still have no clue to how magic and anomalies behave."

The director could say the same about their understanding of powers. No only had both Eve and the agency have been on their own searches, both have came to completely different conclusions. But they were the same, beside different abilities, they were all 'ability-users'. Nothing changed besides their perspectives.

Eve's perspective really enlightened the director, and the whole agency. "It's a very forward and scientific effort. Maybe I should introduce you to the science and technology halls, to show them a lot of your discoveries."

Eve almost jumps out of her seat. She was capable of becoming a scientist there, not an outfield agent. Eve tries to suggest that, if he didn't think of it already. "Wait, wouldn't I be a good fit for that?"

The director lightly shakes his head, lowering the clipboard. He denies that option. "You might be down there for a lot of discussions with the team, however, your insight is better on the field."

Eve looks a little more defeated. The director brings his notes back up to his face. He quickly moves on to the next prompt. "Now, another question, what would you do without any items on you? What abilities do you have with no aid? You can give whatever answer you can think of."

Eve concentrates in her seat. Her skin began to glow around her in a pure aura. She tired to enhance her transformation, her hair suddenly caught a nonexistent wind and flowed weightlessly. Her features becoming more radiant, Eve also explains in telling. "Well... I can glow, become lighter and faster. I've known that for a long while, but I've learned to make things with... Well, look."

Eve extends her hands out to hold a flashing light that appeared in the base of her palms. She then closes her fists together and draws out a golden, shining rope. "I think it's starlight, it's bright and hot yet it appeared from thin air. I think I learned this might be a part of my ability after practicing with my powers for so long. I can make a net for fish, or a rope to swing from the night sky. If I know a place well enough, I can swing from the stars in the daylight too. I can make light appear basically from anything I can think of. Shoot it like a firework, be a human torch, make stands, glitter, whatever can interact with light, and the stars, heh...."

The light started to dim. Eve takes her hands away, and the rope vanishes like it evaporated into the air. Eve brushes glitter off her shoulder, altering back to her normal tricks. She then waved her hands, letting more glitter appear, and fall from her fingertips.

The director jots all this down. He at first murmured in thought, then spoke out to Eve. "So you originally have a light power. You might have also made a breakthrough in being able to harness other abilities with aids... Fascinating. It could further us and our understanding, if it can be practiced by others, as well."

Eve looks unsure of the optimism. Especially knowing of places that are built an alliance with powers and magic already. "I think, if all I did was read some old books, it might have been a breakthrough long, long ago. But, it might solve some questions we have about these things that need to be... 'rediscovered'."

If one, or a couple people can do it, others can try to perform the same spells too. For everyone that harnessed a special ability, it still meant the idea of abnormal things existing. Which wasn't a shocker to them maybe, but those without powers or knowledge remained a baffling concept.

What mattered was the new information that could explain and advance their current societies. Trying to piece the puzzle together was the plan. "It's very true. It's still worth noting at least your ability to do this. Knowledge that could further our current understanding could bring you more success and fame in the agency, if you'd want to pursue a higher career path in the future." Said the director.

Neither sounded appealing to Eve, let alone for a career at the agency. Eve gets a bit serious for the moment. Not out of character, she was just more expressing the importance. "I don't know about that... Some things just must be for the better good, and not the betterment for human life. The world must be equal, we are only a small part of it, and a fraction of its life. I only wanted to show this knowledge, so that others could learn more about how the universe really works. I see it has to be dealt through you, first."

The director speaks proudly, with a smile that was genuine. "We here at the S.O.U. are made to keep the world at peace from the normal and abnormal, in many forms. We have several secret facilities built on each anomaly, people with powers is just one of many. The books however might be useful in different units around here, which might be reported to other special agencies." He puts his clipboard away far off from his desk and papers into a file in a drawer below him. He then swiftly returns his attention back to Eve.

The director puts his hands knitted together comfortably on his desk, smiling again. "That's all for now. You'll be reporting to me on many occasions during training, and continuing onto your time working here. I am the director and chief executive. If you have any questions, I'll try to get to them as soon as I can. Welcome to the team, Miss Evanara, Okamoto."

Eve gets up and grabs her belongings, putting her book on the desk back in her bag. The director raises from his chair slightly to extend a hand to Eve. She shakes it and nervously turns to leave.

The director chimes in one last time, almost forgetting to mention. "By the way, you'll need a code name for your records. You cannot use your real name except in the building, or off hours. You have until the end of your training to finalize one, or we will provide you with one. However, we don't suggest changing it frequently, just stick to some kind of name you'd respond to."

Eve turns back with a tiled head. She gets an enthused look from the consideration.  "Could I use my performance name a bit? Starlight?"

The director thinks for a moment if it could be allowed, but he shakes his head in disagreement. "I don't think it would work. It's fine as a name, but people could possibly find your identity that way. Agent Star might slide, however, we should be careful. We don't often get internet entertainers here, but you can keep that name, along with your agent name. Use them separately when you're on or off duty."

Eve shrugs. It was a shame but understandable, being for the best.  "Darn hehe~ Alright, I'll definitely think about it."

With that, Eve turns and to leave with a lot to mentally digest. She opens to door to the louder offices. She waves the director off and heads out. At least now she can relax with Sameer for a while till the morning. Then, that when her first course of training starts.

_______________________________

After Eve left the office, she was able to go and relax in her new apartment till the next day. By 'relax', Eve unpacked, made dinner, then fell asleep on her couch. The next day came quickly. 

Eve was asked to go to the first session of her training. She was in a group of people, some a bit older, and many younger than her. They went through procedures and protocols for working in and out of the building. Eve was good at taking notes and understanding, but she didn't like anything that came up. Protection, captures, evacuations, security, but not to 'why' she had to learn all of this for. For some, it might of been a boring first few lessons. For Eve, she spent the whole day in thought after training.

Eve spends the evening back at her new place, still trying to wrap her head around everything. Sameer stays close by her as support for her. It broke his big tiger-heart to see, and hear, Eve sulk and groan about everything going on.

A knock echoes from the doorway. She wasn't expecting anyone, not like she knew anyone to invite. Both Eve and Sam turn to the door to investigate.

Eve looks through the peephole to who was there. The agent from before was waiting at the door. When he hears the sudden jostling coming from the other side, he looks at the hole as if speaking to Eve. "Good evening, Miss Okamoto..." He says loud enough through the door.

Eve opens the door and peers her head out. The agent is able to actually see, and speak to her clearly now. "Ah, so how did training go?"

Eve evaded the question and asked her own, confused. "Why are you here? Are you going to keep watch over me?"

Agent Grey scoffed and crossed his arms. "I bloody live here too, and technically, yes, I am! I'm going to be supervising you after you're done with training. You happen to be assigned my partner in the future, already...." His voice booms, sounding not very pleased.

Eve's eyes go wide in shock. She loudly outbursts in disbelief. "What?! You never mentioned that part!" She watches the agent's expression. She couldn't tell if he was being serious, or knew for certain. He looked serious, but Eve couldn't believe it.

The agent goes from bitter, to less coolly. "I didn't know till I got here as well, and just had the time to inform you now. Since I was on my way, I wanted to see how you were holding up. No terrible, shady business, right?"

Eve just stares silently at Agent Grey as cold as her face could possibly achieve. Her eyes sharpened but soft features made her just look upset. She eventually averts her glare and scrunches her mouth into a childish pout, as she crosses her arms.

Agent Grey, naturally scowling with his looks, tried to show some sympathy yet annoyance. "Look, I know it's going to be tough for a while, but stay strong. I promise you'll feel better about it here."

If it wasn't bad enough that he was the one that dragged Eve here, she had to be HIS partner. Anyone, more experienced than her, seemed like better options. It didn't make senses, but then again, nothing about the agency made sense to Eve. "About... a place like this? In a world like this? I don't know, but if I have to work here, with you, I need my room for a while...."

Agent Grey growls deeply. "... Fine. Take all the time you need. It's not like we are forced to trust each other or anything...." His sarcastic snarl was unamused and irritated.

Eve squeezes her arms with them still crossed. She was highly upset, but a little cooperative. "I don't know your perspective, but I really believe I'm having to put more trust in you, than in me! There's so much on the line having to trust you, and this agency. If you want to be evil, I would definitely hope you'd just get it over with and not act so coy about it."

He looks at Eve for a moment baffled, then pointing a finger, and yelling. "We're not- I'M NOT ACTING COY. I'M DOING MY JOB!"

The agent was already fed up with trying to talk to Eve while she's so distressed. He turns to the end of the hallway, deciding to give her space. It was probably best for them to not push the situation any more downhill than it was heading. Agent Grey curses under his breath. "Are you, and your mentor, both THIS uncooperative? Give me a fuckin' break..."

Eve takes a lung out her door and grabs Agent Grey's arm suddenly. She stared at his wide-eyed shock, with fury in hers.

'READ MY THOUGHTS!! READ ME!! IF YOU'RE READING MY THOUGHTS YOU BETTER HAVE NOT SAID ANYTHING ABOUT MY MENTOR!!! LEAVE HIM OUT OF THIS!! I'LL TELL YOU WHATEVER YOU WANT!! JUST NEVER SPEAK OF IT!!'

Agent Grey grabs Eve's wrist and leans closer to her. He practically burns his glare into her eyes. "For someone not wanting to use my powers, you're really testing me... I never said or written down anything about them..."

Agent Grey let's go and Eve is able to retrieve her hand back. He turns to walk away, but stops one last time. "Don't worry. We both will have a lot more to worry about later...."

________________________________

As days went by, living a new life, training continued to be a challenge. With Eve combating her doubts with the courses, she gets to a pit in her stomach when she enters a combat facility in the agency building. She had enough conflict going on. It all started with being asked to wear a uniform for one part of training, and a belt for her magical ingredients. This confused Eve, even being directed to a new facility inside the building. Till, Eve stepped foot inside, and saw training equipment everywhere.

With training beginning as she enters through the door, whether she wanted to or not, a voice grabs the prime focus of everyone there. Everyone looked to a man with wavy orange hair, sport-protected glasses, and a similar sweats and high collared t-shirt like Eve, and the rest had to put before coming there. 

"Alright, new recruits! Now it's time for everyone's least or most favorite part, combat training. Everyone will solo fight with a set of practice androids. In this exercise, you can fight regularly, or use your powers too. Each time you defeat a set of opponents, the level of difficulty increases. Your training will end when you surrender, or when we stop you. Try not to be knocked down for long however, or go out of hand. Everything will be recorded of how well each one did for stats." Said the lieutenant assigned to this part of training.

The lieutenant in charge of the class looks to a clipboard. Eyeing around at crowds of trainees, he calls to see where one name is located. "Now, will Miss ... Evanara? Please step into the 'testing box'. You get to be the first to try it out. Shouldn't be too difficult, no?"

Eve's eyes go wide when she hears her name. Out of all things, she had to be the first volunteer. Having to step in a giant glass box like a lab rat was incredibly nerve-racking for Eve. She drags a hand through her hair, not wanting to move, or even seem like she was. "Does someone who doesn't know how to fight have to go first?"

The lieutenant pauses to think of how to reassure Eve. Everyone, whether they know how to fight now, or not, will learn how. It's not for everyone, but it's still part of the course. It was required to go through all of the training even if people were placed in different positions. Agents were just one of many jobs available, it just didn't affect Eve, knowing she's destined as an agent so far.

The lieutenant scratches his head with a pencil. "Oh? Ah, well, that may be a setback but you can use your powers. It'll be fine. Rumors, and your records, say you're the next up and coming 'star'. So, give it a shot. But... take the utility belt off. As part of marking your 'natural powers' for this test, we don't want you to use your aids for this first exercise."

Eve takes off her toolbelt, full of ingredients and capsules she had in her chest back in her apartment. She had just been given permission to carry her ingredients and items on her, but now it seemed like she can't use them yet.

The lieutenant adjusts his glasses and watches Eve enter the shatterproof glass chamber. The door closes and it becomes dead silent. Motionless metal figures flash red and start up.

Eve walks to the center getting closer to a circle of androids. She was worried but curiosity, and her light powers, were the only tool she had to combat it. She closed her eyes and breathes. "Showtime...."

The circle tightens as Eve open her eyes, now looking determined. Each robotic opponent had a 'Lv.1' on their chest, she looked at the row around her. As a row stepped forward, creating less gaps, they got within arms length from her.

Eve ducks as two reach for her. She sticks her fingers out pointing, shooting beams of light from her fingertips. It only knocks back the two androids slightly from the direct blast. It didn't seem like much of an attack but the metal was slightly scuffed up from the hot light-beams, it wouldn't be very pleasant to feel.

Eve places one arm behind her back as she holds her other palm out, creating a sparkling white ring in front of her. The ring quickly glows, in a flash the ring shoots out a larger beam shot from the center at another android. This time it knocks the android down.

Eve points the ring at another android, and quickly another. Placing both hands behind her, she quickly turns and lunges backwards away from another dummy. She moves swift and light, darting at an incredible rate around, dodging all the androids.

Eve moves to the side and dodges a metal fist just inches from her face. She lunges at it, a hand suddenly on the android. Another ring quickly appeared around Eve's hand and it blasted the android down as Eve used it as leverage to flip into the air over a few androids. She steps on the face of an android and uses that one to jump on another, bouncing weightlessly across the glass chamber.

Eve kicks off the glass, and backflips off to take down an opponent with a drop-kick. She uses both hands to create a beam that breaks and dents the metal frame. A success but it was only one of many, and now the android's eyes flashed at Eve. Every difficulty now at 'Lv.2', they all run at Eve again. She does a backwards somersault to gain some more space and to dodge a few bots.

Eve clicks her heels together as she lads, and waves her hand out again. A ring forms, beams are shot around the room with a moment for her to steady her hand. She takes a moment to clench her fists together. She drew them away from another, pulling a bright, golden-like rope from thin air. She twists the ends around her fists and places the rope out in front of her. She gets cornered again from the androids that were still remaining.

Still charging at Eve, once close they don't hesitate to strike at her. She backs away and ducks as she uses the rope to deflect. She wraps the arm of one, twisting and pulling it over her shoulder to be flung into a row of other androids. At least she was able to get away, which she did. More were hanging back however, now taking a turn to lunge at her. She keeps running backwards, avoiding everything in a panic.

The lieutenant speaks up in the middle of her fight, loud enough so Eve can hear him. "Try to attack again."

Eve whips her head to the lieutenant, wide-eyed in panic, and fiery with anger. "You want me to keep ineffectively blind a bunch of robots with light?!" Eve stops in her tracks to hold both hands out to form the biggest ring and light-rays. It was a bigger blast but only got two of several coming for her. She tiredly huffs. "I'm better at dodging and avoiding conflict entirely...."

Even contradicting herself, as she tries her hardest to remain untouched, Eve was panicking. Throwing out large pulses of light took a lot of her energy she just found out. This was a lot harder than a lot of smaller spells for a performance, AND with her aids. Eve was running out of raw power fast if she kept going. The lieutenant calls out to Eve. "Just try to get creative. You can't always run."

"Like I could run away, when I'm stuck in this cage!" Eve shouts and shakes, when suddenly her skin starts to glow, eyes aching as blue light poured out of them. Her head started to pound with an overflowing serge of energy.

Eve stops making light-rings and balls her fists together, yelling to the outside of the glass room. "I'm just a puppet, your tool! When I didn't have to run away from danger, or fight, until being shipped to this forsaken place!" The lieutenant lowers his tone. "Ease up, recruit, don't get all pissy at me. Watch your six, and your mouth."

Eve barely dodges a kick thrown at her, and her footing almost loses balance. She swiftly spins and shifts all her balance on her toes to correct her fast motion. She grew brighter the more she got angry.

"This place is a huge damper on my mood!! Coming from someone who's usually all-smiles...." Eve then runs, her hair now white as her brightly shrouded skin. Her movements became too quick to see fully. As she ran, it seemed she kept getting faster and faster. She practically flies from one corner of the room to another. She takes a leap from the floor, then a glass wall, to twist and push, or flip off the glass ceiling.

Eve continues to fly from the walls, to the ceiling, back to the floor around the room. Like an echo, her voice rings out, coming from everywhere. "Some 'star' I'll be here! That's an insult to who I really am!"

Eve slides halfway across the room, reaching down, and placing both hands on the floor. She tries to halt her motion. A circle then forms around her and the rays of light glow upward, surrounding Eve in light. It spreads around, shaking the floor beneath her. Light instantly shot out from the ground and propelled forward in a wave that sent a whole group of androids up and crashing down.

The wave Eve had created shook the floor outside of the testing box. It cause a slight stir between recruits. The lieutenant just roared out excitedly. "Great job!"

Eve keeps the ring around her with her hands connecting to the floor. The ring flashes bright as she yells. "Just don't say anything!! I swear to galaxies, don't praise using my magic for violence!"

Eve sends another rippling wave of light, and then another. Eventually she finished the rest off. More opponents came from sliding panels from the ground, all being elevated up. Eve tries to send more waves of light at them before they could act. She handled all of the opponent, until they charging at Eve, all at 'Lv.10'. Eve shrieks in utter outrage. "10?!" She whips her head to the lieutenant briefly.

Eve just acknowledge the numbers were increasing drastically. The lieutenant was aware. He had observed her whole performance, even when she was unaware of what she was doing herself. "You cleared a whole few levels of bots in just a few hits. That special attack made it too easy at level 5 and 6."

Eve shatters the ring and it shoots phantom-like crystal out around her. She stands and is fuming. "I swear... it's not like I know how to use my powers to harm. I'm freaking trying for my life to learn how to fight with them, JUST NOW!"

The lieutenant shoos his gaze away for a moment. He felt a bit of pity, Eve was stressing out so much. "You'll hate the normal training dummies we use then. Level 30 and above can add guns and weapons. These are harmless compared to, but you're doing a fantastic job for your first time."

Eve scoffs, like anything could be thrilling about this job to her, which seemed unlikely. Then she was off, running away and sliding on the ground too quickly to send waves of light at enemies behind her. She goes back to dodging and making a few openings for a light wave.

After a few more waves, Eve is physically and magically exhausted. She wipes her forehead and exhales shortly. She jolts and lunges backwards as an android is sprinting at her full force. It continued to follow and swing at her. She eventually lost her balance and fell backwards. She holds her hand out and a ring shoots the android.

As it jumped up to attack her, Eve's light-beam luckily shot it away and sent it falling in front of her as she tried to get up. Another android knocked her back down from behind unexpectedly, sending an immediate headache to Eve. She grabs the leg of the robot and sends a ring surrounding its leg up to its torso. The leg breaks off as light shoots from out of the socket and the android falls to the ground too.

Eve tosses the leg and is able to take a knee. Holding her hands out hovering over the floor, the area around her began to glow brightly again, and a wall of light was closing around her. From bottom to top, a dome closes her off.

The androids jolt from touching the force field of light. It was too hot and bright, Eve was barely able to be seen from the inside. Eve takes the moment to weave stands of light magically from her fingers. The golden rope flies around weightlessly as she pushes, pulls ends together and ties them off.

The lieutenant squints his eyes at Eve confused. A small sweat forms as he watches as Eve is just a jittering figure. He couldn't see her very well, even with his clipboard acting as a visor. He speaks out, trying to get her attention back to training. "W- what are you doing?"

Eve just snaps at him quickly. "PLAYING DEFENSIVE!!" She then stomps one foot and the dome flashed and vanished. Similar phantom crystals quickly disappear once the dome breaks.

Eve was surrounded in another circle of opponents, she held out the gold, shiny netting with both hands. As a group of enemies charged, Eve swung the net around them. She captured them under hot rays of light and they fell to the floor and struggled under the net. Eve takes another net and throws it behind her. As predicted, a different wave was going to attack from behind, but Eve had a net between her and them. She creates another rope from her hands and rushes into the charging robots.

Eve dodges and keeps running as she looks back and grabs the net they were standing on. With the net and rope she ties them together, she jumps up and off a glass wall. She suddenly glows again and her movements in the air become weightless as she flew back over the androids. The rope tugged at the net and cinched the net around them. Once it was sealed, the heavy bag sent Eve swinging down to land.

Although her speed was fast, Eve placed her feet out and her hands to steady herself back on the floor with ease, as if falling from the great height was nothing. She looks at the androids on the floor and the ones struggling in the net twisted up in a ball. Then, more came out from the floor again, much stronger and more of them than the last.

Eve was getting fed up, more than she already was. More of her felt like it's breaking. She felt like she was about to burst, or she'll become hysterical from all the stress. Eve screams and a wave of light flashes from her feet. "I'M!! DONE!! I'VE HAD ENOUGH!!"

Eve gets into a tired, fighting stance as she holds two rings of sparkling light out. They all jump at her. Eve was prepared to hit a few in flight, when suddenly their eyes stopped glowing red and they fell to the ground at Eve's feet.

The lieutenant calls over Eve, she turns, a bit surprised. "Okay... The first combat secession of the day is complete. You can step out of the chamber now, we don't want to keep stressing you out anymore."

Eve exits, feeling absolutely exhausted and defeated. Now, Eve can finally breathe. She huffs and wipes sweat off her face. She walks out and tries to make her way back to the crowd of recruits, but the lieutenant stops her. He looks at her with a sympathetic side-grin. "Difficulty level 17, along with a high performance in powers. That's really good for a first timer, especially with no prior experience. Pretty good overall."

Eve stays silent and watches the others go through their training, still pretty upset with the sight of people getting hurt. The next person made it to level 8, the next level 10, level 9, a level 2, a high of 19, level 7, level 4, and then a 15. Abilities and combat, both used at different levels.

All the special alities used was a new sight to Eve, never seeing so many people with abilities till now. Some people's powers and strengths were better than others. The one with the highest score so far took only a few minutes to surpass Eve. The guy seemed pretty happy with his score.

A loud, worried sigh catches Eve's attention beside her. "Oh god, I did so terrible...." Said a smaller man with dark hair standing beside Eve.

Eve turns her head to him with a tilted head. She smiles and batters her eyes curiously. "Hm? It might not matter if you didn't score very high in combat. I'm sure you'll be much better in the other sections."

The short man panics while fidgeting with his hand profusely. "I'm really scared about failing here. Do they put the ones that can't work in a cell somewhere, or use them for experiments??" He wiped his head to Eve terrified, like he was screaming for help. And, like Eve could help, or knew herself.

Eve clearly sees that he was just also scared and in the dark as she was. She wasn't going to say anything for certain, or show her worry either. She showed enough of that in combat. Eve however was optimistic, even if others or herself believed it all the time. "Well... You won't know for certain but keep both good and bad perspectives in mind. You don't want to pressure yourself more, then you might not try your best to not find out."

The man sighs and lowers his shoulders slightly. "Yeah... You're right."

The lieutenant pops his head between them and stands as he watching the last test. He reassures both Eve and the other recruit. "Hey! I couldn't help overhear, but you don't have to worry too much. We just want you to pass the academy. If you don't, there's a group home, where you'll be taken care of in a beautiful place, but it's closed off to the public. So our discovery stays secret. If you work in the unit, you get to travel for business and leisure, make an income, get to go out whenever you want around 'normal' people. If combat isn't your thing, we have many more tests to see if you are at least capable of working other positions."

The smaller man softly speaks out. His voice less shrilled and nervous. "T- thank you Lieutenant Morse."

Eve looks up and tilts her head. "Morse? Is your ability coding?"

Lieutenant Morse wags a finger and smirks. "Smart guess, Miss Evanara. I can read people's bodies, like reading signals. I can see the conditions and injuries by the signals the body sends to itself. It looks like networks, running to and away from the brain."

Eve perks her head to one side. "Oh, that's a very good power to have." She said plainly, and a bit surprised to hear.

The lieutenant looks at the ongoing testing. He starts writing and checking things off, while observing the condition of the current tester. "I get to make sure everyone here is safe training, also sometimes I'm just in the infirmary to look at critical conditions."

The smaller man, who was just cringing at the sight of the androids, softly speaks under his breath glumly. "I wish I could have a useful power like you two. I can make a shield or bubble, but only around myself, Miss Eve here did that and more. It's a sucky power that I have...."

Eve leans to one leg and places both fists resting on her hips. She shrugs over and gives a warm smile. "Hey, a force shield can be very useful! You might not know how to fight either, you still could protect people around you, or something important, if they're close enough. Protecting people I believe is the best part of using your powers...."

Lieutenant Morse places a hand on the other man's shoulder, in reassurance, but also in a bit of pain. The lieutenant gave a thrilled smile and nodded. "Miss Evanara's right, and you might get a lot better at fighting normally. You could even still make it to operative agent if you keep getting better. Protecting others from harm IS our number one priority, you'll be learning that throughout training."

The shorter man taps his fingers together pondering. He looks over his shoulder at the lieutenant. He was curious to know more, but seemed scared about it. "So, we'll have to keep doing this to get a shot at being an agent?"

The lieutenant gives a small bit of encouragement, looking at the man and over to Eve. "Both of you still have to prove you can be an agent, that's a big task. You have different setbacks but still aren't far off from making it."

The smaller gent seemed to loosen his quivering lips into a smile. The lieutenant dismisses himself to stop the testing that was ongoing. That relaxed his worries a lot after talking to the lieutenant. At least one felt more at rest. Eve still couldn't shake all of her doubts and worries. This was a nerve-racking first start, she didn't want to stick around for more combat training. Certainly not, if it meant Eve had to do this more outside of training.

L/F Name: Evanara Okamoto, Eve Getsumei Age: 27 Hair color: Platinum Eye color: Blue Height/weight: 166 cm / 60 kg Race: Half Japanese and English - No known anomalies in background Ability: Unknown / Multiple - Reported using flashes of light, fire, water, ice, possibly etc. - Possible spectrum of abilities. - Reported lists of other unexplainable acts. - No violent or dangerous activities recorded. Note: Passive but powerful.

Mission: Take the girl in. Stop her from exposing abilities, contain her activity. Discover what powers she has. Find out any other additional information she knows for records.

______________________________

Just as something in the air was brewing, it was a beautiful night, like any night for a woman named Eve. Eve had just turned in for the night after stargazing with her friend tiger, Sameer, by her side.

Sameer was a Snow Tiger, but he was found in the desert almost a year ago, by Eve. Both had very light, practically white colored hair, but her eyes were a dazzling blue, unlike Sam's. They both had a peaceful day of Eve working on songwriting and sheet music that led into a calm night. Pillows were scattered around Eve's futon, where Sam laid, cradling around her as she sinks into her bed.

Eve loved having her large, furry friend always by her side, Eve smiles as she falls asleep. She looked like a pale angel, with her light, practically white hair, and even white lashes. Hair spread around her and an arm hugged around the tiger.

The room was quiet as Eve tried to sleep, till Sameer popped his head up in alert. Suddenly, Sameer was growling. Eve tiredly reopens her sapphire blue eyes, and watches him curious for a moment. She quickly gets up, turning on her bedside lamp. She immediately knew something wasn't right.

A figure had stood just within Eve's peripheral vision. Eve gasped and darted her head back forward. Sameer gets up, pillows scattering by Eve's bed, and he growls even deeper and more threatening. His stance alert and hairs sticking up wildly, circling to hide Eve a bit. Eve looks at a man standing in front of her, her eyes wide at him. He just looks down at her with a cold glare, as cold as his steely-grey eyes.

The man starts to lift his hand, and Sam roared angrily, and threatens to get closer to him. The man jolts but then slowly proceeds to hold both hands up, trying to say there's no threat. He speaks in a gruff and monotone voice. "Good Evening, Miss Okamoto. I'm sorry to startle you but I'm a part of the S.O.U and- Ahh!!"

Eve was suddenly a flash of white light and springs out of her bed. She tackles the intruder. Eve's tiger companion attacks the man's legs with his claws, and at once, the man topples over onto the floor with a loud thud.

Sameer lets go quickly. Eve crashes onto the intruder, and stares him down. Her glowing skin almost made her menacing with her eyes, like a blinding blue light in the darkness. Small gold shimmers poured from the blue light in her eyes made her also look angelic. She holds a hand to his face, with a swirling ball of light and air forming in the palm.

The man for a moment stays down, but suddenly knocks one of Eve's legs. While she was struggling for balance, the man then took Eve's arms out from under her and reversed her pin on him. Sameer growls at him ferociously and prowls low towards him. The man gets up from Eve and backs away. He waves his hands and whisper-yells. "Wait just a moment! I need a word with you! It's important! I'm not here to fight!"

Eve props herself back upright and sitting on the floor. Her skin subsided and started to turn back to normal, the room becoming less illuminated. "What do you want?! And- GET OUT!!" Eve didn't care about her volume as she pointed to her door. Sameer roars after Eve, his stance still about to pounce at the intruder.

The intruder stood his ground with no sign of moving. He was, however, a bit disheveled. He adjusted his shirt collar and hair, they too appeared grey with what little light was on him. "Ahem... again I'm sorry for coming here suddenly. I'm an agent from the S.O.U., Special Operations Unit. To put it simply, we've been told that you have some special abilities and will need to be taken in for questioning."

Instead of answering anything, Eve was more concerned about how they know so much, about her, and about 'special abilities'. Eve stays seated on the floor, cradles her legs and crosses her arms. Eve screamed, "Wouldn't a normal person wait till someone's not about to sleep in their home to talk? You're a trespasser!"

A fair point Eve made. It would have been more courteous to knock at least, and not just sneak into someone's bedroom late at night. That terrified Eve, Sam was quite startled too.

The man composes himself more and adjusts his sleeves by rolling them up. "Keep your voice down already... I'm sorry, but I was informed as soon as I was told to bring you to the unit. Reason to why, it's because of your powers. Obviously you weren't afraid to show them to a trespasser... As surprising as that was for someone marked 'passive'...." He muttered the last part, which sounded tiredly droning in thought.

Eve tilts her head and places her palms to the floor. She had become so confused, and his answer didn't help. She gives the agent a small scowl and raised brow. "So, how can I believe you for certain?..."

The man quickly and fluidly reached for his badge clipped to his belt, not without rolling his eyes first. He takes out his badge and flashes his eyes a mystic color, it looks like a purple, almost plum-colored smoke "Sigh, badge... Eyes... Yours glow too, if you don't know that fact. It's what 'our kind' do....". He explains, as if he's seen kinds like theirs before.

Eve's eyes go wide. She eyes the badge and stands up taller on her knees. She already was looking at his eyes as they changed. It was definitely a trademark of people like her. The iconic glow of magical abilities being used, or identifying a person's power. "You have abilities? Then can I ask, what?"

The agent calmly answers. "Well, you may. I can read people's thoughts. Another part of that is that I can see into people's memories, when its relevance is in someone's mind."

Eve drags herself backwards on her hands, away from the man. He didn't make any attempt to move. Eve was still freaked out, even if he wasn't acting sinister. "That sounds dangerous! You could be trying to find out something from me just without permission!"

He huffs, "Sigh... I have to be touching someone to do it, so you're fine. If I know someone well enough however, I don't have to have contact just to read them."

Eve gawks and exaggerates how ridiculous this all was. She waves her hands out but away from the man. "Well, what do you want from me? I'm just a stage performer! I'm not using my powers for any evil uses...."

The man scratches his head while looking at Eve's tiger friend. His features were very sharp, and as intimidating as his glare when he looked back to Eve. His voice seemed the same as natural and grim it was. "It's not of legal in normal terms, but you could be dangerous to the public and need to be-."

Eve waves her hands in the middle of him speaking. She interrupts again to argue. "Hold on mister! A child-entertainer as dangerous?! I'm showing the world about magic that they've forgotten! For centuries magic has died off at an alarming rate. You don't understand! That knowledge isn't dangerous, nor can any normal human possess or take it!" She huffed bitterly.

The man crosses his arms, and idols on a leg that's the least scratched up, thanks to Sameer's doing earlier. "...? Hm. Do you know a lot about your abilities? There's powers making a resurgence, but officials can't see how they exactly work, not without a special ability to. So there's a special unit of government operatives that use their abilities for keeping peace, and the world from uproar. We only worry your exposure of these powers would compromise our mission."

The agent looks around at the dimly lit room. It had nothing out of the ordinary, besides an angry looking tiger staring at him. The tiger luckily was standing down for now. He sternly adds, with warning. "You'll be given a choice. But, I'd recommend thinking about it wisely. You join the S.O.U., live a normal life and work for us, or you refuse and are taken under our custody regardless."

Eve's eyes go wide again and gawks surprised. She cocks her head, as if confused. "That's... unfair. That's not how this power works, it's to be used for good. How do I know to trust this weird group? I think it would be wise to refuse...."

The agent puts a hand to his face, looking a bit worried and annoyed. He huffs, looking back at her dead serious. "Trust me, it's not. Many feel this way when first joining. It's not bad, however. Sigh, we emphasize protecting, and stopping mass corruption. You never know who will try to use something for bad. Whether it's 'forgotten magic', or whatnot." He quotes with his fingers skeptically.

The man had a point. Eve understands, and also uses spells or her words to hide her magic. She never knew how people would react, except younger people. Imaginative minds saw through the veil, and would be mesmerized by her real magic. She just didn't want magic to die off unheard, or for humanity to be in the dark when magic would help many things.

Thinking more, and understanding. Eve anxiously asks. "So... What do I have to do?..." She didn't want any part in a group she hadn't heard of, but it seemed she had no choice.

The agent plainly answers her. "If you join, and I highly recommend it, we leave for America, and you'll be moving to the headquarters tomorrow. Anything you want to bring you have till the morning to pack."

He makes a quick glance to Sameer, and back to Eve. "I'm sure you can bring... the tiger but he'll have to stay in your room or be kept somewhere. Anything you might need for your abilities you need to pack first and most importantly. We'll need to record those as well." The agent looked down at Sameer, who was scowling at the man.

Eve slams both hands on the floor. "What?! I have till tonight to pack up everything, to move out of the country? Is that really true?"

The agent quickly nods to her, Eve sits back down on her knees, her voice trembling and defeated. "Oh my stars... W- why does this have to happen?" She looks down and tears run down her face.

Eve looks up at the man and begs, "What is so wrong with me? Why can't I keep it a secret, and keep making people smile? I can keep it a secret... Why does this have to happen?" Eve buries her face in her hands. Sameer comes to her aid beside her.

The man looks down and lowers his gaze to Eve. She's failing to hold back tears, and her breathing started to hitch. He gets closer, but a safe distance from Eve, and from Sameer too, of course.

The agent speaks in a less blank tone, sounding almost sincere. "... It may be hard to believe, but the organization wants to help people like us. It's just under the protection of the agency. I'm sure you can still make music and live freely, but you must work for us, and have it as your primary job from now on."

Eve wipes her face with her palms. She whimpers a bit softly. "I'm sorry... This is just so sudden. It's scary to be honest... I don't even believe it. What's going to happen, if I agree?"

The man answers, a bit sincere, and a bit back to serious. "You'll live in the apartments provided. Our base is located in New York City. You'll first go into training in our academy, so you will be taught how to do your job. There will be training for your abilities and learning how to use them. You also might have to fight, but I'm sure you'll be fine."

Eve is baffled. She argues. "To fight? But, I don't really fight people in real life... The worst I could do is blind you!"

As hard as it was to believe for the agent, Eve's got a clean record and history of peaceful acts. Eve's ability had mostly to do with light, since it was based on starlight. Another part of her power Eve demonstrated was her ability to make herself the weight of a human-sized star. She could also be hot but non-scolding to the touch. If reports were true, she knows how to use some elements that could be useful other than her own power.

The man sees Eve being a skilled agent, if she tries out. It was jumping to conclusions, and the man even spoke up. "Well, you're not immediately an agent. But... Most missions require agents to do a lot more than just fighting. You'll still learn how to, to not be at a disadvantage. You'll be trained how to protect yourself, and others, for any situation."

Eve hushes, and tries not to protest or act defeated. She was definitely defeated. Eve never in her career, secretly spreading magic people, felt like it was wrong. Now, she's paying for her consequences.

The agent adds, as if trying to answer Eve's possible questions she might of had. "You'll be able to come and go wherever in your free time. You cannot talk about any missions or any information with people outside of the force. Even some other federal forces aren't aware of our existence. So, don't mention any cases to the police. We'll cover it. No discussing the S.O.U. or powers with people. You must follow policies and rules, or consequences could be severe. It may seem like a lot but it's probably nothing unfamiliar to you. But, you have to be more careful. It may include no powers while performing anymore. Even if you do hide some things well, or play it off as one of your 'magic tricks', like in the past." The man air quotes Eve's obscure hinting. It was something she would tell people.

Eve holds her nervous fists to her face. She looks away, quickly looking for a diversion till she see's Sameer walk towards her and sit down beside her. At that point, she was able to swallow back some of her tears. Eve pets Sam and breaks the small silence. "So... What would happen to someone I told? B- but have kept my secret seriously!..."

With a cold face, he leans closer and tries to reach out. Sameer's face whips to the agent's hand and growls. Eve jumps backwards behind her bed, and flails her arms out of reach. If the Agent were to really be able to read her mind, she didn't want him close. He withdraws and asks in a dark tone. "Who?"

Eve springs up and creates a safe distance with the corner of her bed. Standing her ground, but not as confident. She stares at the agent intensely. "I asked first!" Eve protested. The man shrugs at her. ".... Depends. They may go from being protected, to being taken in as liability."

Eve clutches her hands to her heart. She pleads. "... I- it's just my designer, Rin, I've told... They've never said a word! I trust them like family. They're a few of the only family to me that I have left..."

The agent looks at her and thinks. Eve's shared a lot about powers subliminally, but she lives alone, and works online. She often did things by herself, along with the small team she created years ago for her job. Her designer, Rin, was one of a few close to Eve. Like a lot of her team and online friends, they weren't always physically close by. Rin travelled a lot for their job.

The agent found no family interactions from Eve, for many different reasons. He scowls down at Eve and asks plainly. "And, is there anyone else you'd share this information with?" He wants to make sure no one else knows besides the one.

Eve can't lie to save her life, but especially now, she thought it would be wise to be truthful. She does however avert her gaze to the floor, and to Sameer. "There's a blacksmith and my manager, if I saw them more often, or thought they'd understand. Maybe some online people I've befriended from collaborations. Also... I guess, I would have liked to have told my mentor too...."

The agent immediately raises a brow and asks, jumping straight to the suspicion he had. "Mentor?... A 'powerful' one, perhaps? Did someone ever show you how to use your abilities?" It would make sense why she knew so much already. Without help it would have been a very difficult task, one could only assume.

Eve points daggers with her glare at the agent. She strides closer to the agent in a gust of wind. Eve sternly vocalizes while aggressively shaking a finger at the agent. "... I will say this once but don't you dare have anyone go there and destroy the peace!!"

Confused but willing, the agent nods. He waits for her explanation, with his arms crossed and a tired but patient. Eve turns away, walking around the room, memorizing how the place looked, before it was gone.

Eve stops at her window and sighs, "Okay... I must explain beforehand... There's a small town in the desert. There used to be many magicians and sorcerers that lived there. Until centuries passed, the town was under the protection of a lone, grand magician. And, when the magician dies, their predecessor gets their powers and takes their place as the new magician, usually at age 14 to 16. They become the magician that protects the town's sick and defenseless, and keeps everything alive. My mentor is the current acting grand magician. He took me in when I was internally lost because of my powers...." Eve looks down to the ground, saddened.

Eve doesn't face the agent, but adds, sounding more sorrowful. "My mentor is a good man and helps people. I just wanted to do the same here...." Eve sniffs a bit as she pouts on the ground, with her fists on the ground trying not to cry.

Eve turns her head back to the man, with a lowered head and cracking voice. "... So, please don't say anything, or let anyone disturb their quiet town... It'll never be a problem for anyone. Its doings are not on digital records... My mentor will never cause alarm. The townspeople rely on him. Please, PLEASE give me your word that you'll not even mention them. I'll do anything, be an agent, if it means they'll stay a secret...." She starts to plead under her breath, warning of the true dire consequences. Her hands were shaking, but face was trying to be brave. Voice, a mix of scared, and determined.

The agent purses his lips to one side, unfazed by Eve's scowl, but was at least trying to act like he at least had a bit of a heart. He motions with his hands for Eve to relax. Even though he was a bit confused, the man calmly draws out, "Okay, okay. Calm down. I know you must care about your mentor a lot." He bluntly puts it, as true as it was.

Eve pleaded in a sad tone, looking at her tiger friend. "He's my best friend, besides Sam, here. He taught me everything I know about using spells and my own powers. He just normally makes medicine and practices the arts passed down! If you need it, I can tell you everything about magic, and the history of the city, as best I can. But please, don't make my mentor work for you! The town needs him! Very, very much! And, he needs the town!!" She got louder, and more desperate.

It wasn't till Eve was jumping up and down, waving her arms, and shouting frazzled, that the agent finally grabbed Eve to hold her still. He lets go quickly and waves a finger to his mouth aggressively. "Okay! Shhhhhhhh!! It's still the middle of the night, don't shout so much. I'm sorry you're in distress."

The agent takes a small step back and brushes his sternness off slightly. "Look, I can't promise your mentor and beloved town won't at least be investigated, but I'll, personally, agree to not say anything they don't already know to the organization. Sigh... I'm supposed to be the one giving authority here."

He's playing with a difficult hand, the man could or could not be trusted to keep a secret, but Eve didn't care. She at least had to show him that he should at least listen to her. His words and understanding was enough for Eve to feel a bit better of the situation. "Thank you! Please, I am grateful if you keep it safe! Again, I'll cooperate if it means it's secret!"

Upon Eve's agreement, she skips off and leaves the man, confused. Not alone, however. Eve had run off, leaving him and Sameer, the one who was just lashing out and growling earlier, in a room with him. The tiger seemed to be giving him a stink-eye, which the man gave the same right back. Something rarely anyone would have the courage to do.

Eve pops her head back in the bedroom doors, and lifts a first aid in tow. She looks at the agent and his legs, giving a tight-lipped smile. He's now giving her the stink-eye, confused about how quickly she changes character. 

But, Eve was sincere. She finally felt bad about hurting the man. He was a stranger in her room, true, but he didn't kidnap, hurt, or do anything bad besides bring unexpected news. It wasn't a good situation, but it could have been worse.

Eve places the kit down on her bed, and the man quickly takes it and digs inside for all he needs, without her help. Eve just watches as he disinfects and wraps his legs. The man also rolled up his pant legs so there were less shreds and frays moving around.

The man then looks back up, asking Eve more from where they last left off. "How did you even find your mentor in the first place? Uh... You don't HAVE to say anything, if you don't want to."

As honest, and maybe naive, as Eve was, this was the second person she's ever met like her. It felt a lot easier to tell them, than most of her fans, who she might have thought they were all normal. There really were more like her out there, much closer than she thought. Confused, yet comfortable, she shrugs. "Fair enough, as long as this stays a secret between you and me... Okay?"

He stands tall again, towering a bit over Eve by around ten centimeters, almost half a foot in difference. "Alright....", he sternly huffs.

Eve warns, "Just know that this information could destroy a whole civilization if you tamper with it. It could even upset the whole world, if you destroy the town's magic."

He sighs and waves for Eve to continue along with it. "Yes... I will be an ear but not discuss anything outside this room. I'll at least understand why it's important."

Eve takes a moment to sit on her bed with her legs crossed, petting Sameer profusely to calm them both. "Well....". She paused and looked up. Remembering each detail like she was retracing her steps. "I left, looking for answers. I wandered to a small town and I met my mentor, just by blindly wandering straight to it. He saw me performing and he was the only one that understood me."

Eve chuckles, becoming calmer looking back. "... It ended up being a communication spell. He first introduced himself as the town's shaman and said he saw something interesting in me. He offered a place to stay. I helped at his shop for a while. Heh, turns out he knew everything about magic, powers, and spells so much he could do anything! I learned under him for years, taking hiatuses for my music to go there, since it was impossible to stay connected to the real world when I would see him. I also met my tiger friend on my last trip, and... I might not be allowed back again since... I stole him from a cruel, evil ruler there." Eve looked away at the end, a bit nervously.

The man scratches his head and eyes Eve. He processes all the steps and what she said, but couldn't one hundred percent understand her 'how'. 'Why' at least seemed straightforward, she glowed, so she ran, and ran right into answers she might have needed, just by chance. "I... see, I suppose?... Not sure if I quite understand, but I follow."

Eve ponders, and quickly beams back up. ".... Your ability makes you see someone's memories? I can show you the magic, hehe~. It might explain things better."

Eve hums cheerfully at the end part. He looks at her, not too thrilled as he should be, but it was what he wanted. He still jests in a gruff voice. "Heh, you read my mind..."

"Hehe, I also want to make sure you're not just lying to me about your powers." Eve jokes and holds out her palms. The man rolls his eyes and lightly brushes his hands over hers. His dark grey eyes seem to glow mystic and purple slightly, when suddenly Eve feels like she's reliving a memory. . . .

"Yamehl? 'MEHL!!" Eve calls out and a figure turns around to greet her. A man, with jet black hair tied back, and golden inquisitive eyes hiding behind small, semi-round glasses, was putting down a book he was reading. The glasses fit snug on his nose with a brass chain keeping them on his person. He wore many brass chains around his arms and clothing, with charms and gems on them.

Eve's mentor looks at her and gives her a warm smile. Eve's vision looks down automatically at her hands with a bunch of crystals and herbs piled in them, and then back up at him. She excitedly announces, "I learned how to color the fire!!"

With a long drawn breath, a swirl of sparks flew from Eve's hands, and went up in flames changing each color after another. The flame shined warmly, then cold in a spectrum of light. She spins and points her hand up, sending small sparkles of color up into the air like fireworks. She sends a few small colorful light-shows carefully up and away from knocking into anything.

Eve waltzes over to her mentor with her display and then opens her vest up with her free hand, simultaneously retrieving an odd bouquet of glowing vines. "I also got the nocturnal vines! You needed these, right?"

Eve giggles and her mentor claps. He takes the cut and dried vines from Eve's hand, and places them on his desk. His voice was very calm and sincere. "Very impressive, well done. And you remembered, thank you."

Eve's mentor walks over, eyeing her hands and picking up an opal that's iridescent glow pulsed around its smooth surface. He uses the other free hand to pat Eve's head and keep his hand resting there. "You learned to change frequencies and the form, all in a quick motion. You're so clever, my apprentice." . . .

It changed again and in a flash, another memory was happening. It's now outside at night, and the stars out were so expansive, a few milky ways could be seen off in the neverending distance. Both Eve and her mentor are standing by a large tree in a squared off garden in the middle of the town.

Yamehl has a hand placed on the base of the tree and points to parts for Eve to see. "This is our 'tree of life' of sorts. This is the second biggest flora in this city, other than the palace's large garden around the place. This one holds most of the life left in the plants and trees here. Its small connection has been strengthened for millennials. These Bluewoods get their name from its magical roots, heh. The buds of the flowers here haven't bloomed yet. They're very useful in both forms for magic, as buds and flowers. Naturally, they need help with its magic to give it a last push this time of year. Its magic isn't strong enough on its own anymore."

Her mentor looks down at his hand and proceeds to glow a vibrant warm radiance coming from his palm. He places it bare onto the tree's surface. Eve concentrates on doing the same action, and putting her hand beside his. The grey-like wood of the tree glowed as Eve touched it, along with Yamehl.

A blue aura surrounds the base of the tree. The leaves slowly glowed and dimmed in vibrant blues and greens, lighting the area. The buds shook and a gust of wind subsided them. They started to nestle and glow a bright blue till they unfolded from the stems.

Blue amber-like specs floated from the tree line up into the sky. The area around it caught life as sparks of blue hovered over other plants. The whole area started to light up in colorful glowing plants and specks. The plants had never seemed so vibrant in the daylight as they did this one, special night.

Yamehl hums while looking up at the sky. The brightness from the stars and moon, matching the glowing specks flying up to meet them. "Magic now needs a little help sometimes with things such as these. We keep the earth alive, and in return we can live off its food and medicines. Even the sands can harness magic, some things naturally gravitate to people with its unique senses for it."

He waved his hand and the patches of sand around them swirled up his form, to meet in his glowing palm. He sways his arm and the sand around till he places it back in a beautiful geometric pattern below his feet.

Eve looks down at both their feet and ponders. She nestles a closed hand to her chin, contemplating and idling. "What would that mean if I'm also here, from somewhere that doesn't know about this stuff?"

Her mentor chuckles lightly. "Heh, I'm not quite sure myself, but I know magic is a wonder. You were here for a reason, out there, and in our small, fair town. Destiny is what drives us when we don't direct our steps to our own design."

Eve remembers, even in a memory of the past, she didn't have purpose or planned to come to the desert town of Uridian. "Steps... How curious, and it led me to learning magic with you. I don't think I could thank you enough for taking in me as your apprentice."

Yamehl waved an open palm to Eve and smiled. He looks to Eve in understanding. They both felt like they understood each other well. The sheer luck of fate that brought them together, made such a strong bond between them. "I'm grateful to teach you. Now, before we get back, the water here still needs a charm to keep it pure and from evaporating from the hot rays."

Yamehl finally reaches into his bag. He takes out four large crystal rods and a jar or white sand. Eve perks up and jumps in excitement. Yamehl passes two crystals to Eve and she takes them. "Hold these and I'll put down a seal around the fountain." He calmly explained.

After her mentor makes a large circle around the fountain, he stands by Eve with two crystals and they glow in his hands like Eve's. He closes his eyes and Eve eventually does the same as they meditate in silence. The waters turn white, slowly giving off a small glow. The water's surface started to create rings, it started to rain oddly just in that one spot, both falling and rising into the sky.

After a while, Yamehl opens one eye and leans over to Eve. "This is a magician's yearly task. It's also how the city celebrates the new year. The fountain doesn't dry up and the flowers bloom, showing luck and prosperity to come. The people start a festival in the town square by sunrise."

Eve opens her eyes and turns to her mentor. The crystals and everything still was glowing as she did so. "Wha- Wow~!! What a happy new year! May the area be blessed for centuries more, hehe~!" . . .

And, another memory pops up. This one is where Eve and Yamehl both were working in his shop. It was a very warm day, the wind that came in through the windows and door was hot.

Neither Eve or her mentor could wear as many layers as they normally would. Yamehl took off his robe and Eve had rolled up her sleeves of a white button up she brought, showing off lines of white artwork wrapped around her forearms. Eve was standing by the counter reading offhand, and being the face to greet people. Her mentor was behind her, organizing things away on shelves and in drawers.

A lady was just leaving with something for her bad sleep, she was a regular Eve got to know well. Eve waved her farewell and continued to read up on a spellbook Yamehl had lent her. She had learned that the magicians' small hut was used as a shop, home, and library for whoever was the next generations.

It was cozy. There was a bit of clutter of materials, mostly on a desk tucked into a corner. There were different charms tied around colorful banners on the ceiling. Old relics were placed on top of a large cabinet, full of jars and herbs behind the shop counter. Everything else seemed clean and warm, especially with their living space and dining room seen from smaller rooms with no dividing wall between anything. It felt like home. She felt like she could marvel at it forever.

Her mentor turns to Eve and looks at what she's reading. He sets more books and papers beside her on the counter. "You've been a great help around the shop, there's only a few more orders so you're free to relax."

Eve holds up the book and places her thumbs in it to mark the page she was on, closing it slightly. "Oh thank you Yamehl! I don't mind staying at the counter though in case someone comes in. I'm just reaaally interested in memorizing a few remedies." She opens and goes back to staring at the book deep in concentration.

Her mentor leans over, chuckling, and rubs Eve's head. She looks up from the book, distracted by his head patting. "Well, my little apprentice, you have a lot to learn, but you've already been making much progress. I think you'll know just about everything I know in a few more years.... Maybe you can use that knowledge when you return home."

Eve puts down the book to face Yamehl. She takes both of his hands in hers, she swings them lightly together. "You know I'll come back here, this is my home, silly~! Promise! I wish I could stay, but I know I can't forever...."

Eve's mentor guides his hands out of hers. He moves them up to brush her shoulders, looking at Eve and how much she's grown at that time. It has been a long journey for Eve to get to this point, but Yamehl sees her as a wise, exuberant, and still an innocent girl.

Yamehl conveys that to her, in a deep and sincere tone. "You're very strong Eve. Never forget your purpose here, or why you are the way you are. You're perfect. I hope you'll indeed return. Don't forget about us so quickly, alright?"

Eve draws herself closer to be enveloped in her mentors arms, in a warm, friendly hug. She squeezes the taller man's sides, acting as if she's never let go. "You'll be in my thoughts and heart forever! I'll never forget you! You're my best friend and mentor, Yamehl!"

Yamehl held Eve there, for what seemed like minutes. Her vision beams up at the man who wore a sad smile. He reaches over with one hand for the stack he brought previously. Grabbing for a trinket on top of the stack. Two necklaces with bright misty crystals were brought to Eve's attention. She was given one of them. "Keep this with you so we can always be together.... This will let us com-...." . . .

The image changed suddenly, trying to not replay the last part. It was suddenly dark in the shop. It was night, and a dreadful night for Eve from what she felt. She couldn't see anything except a blurry, watery vision of Yamehl in front of her. She couldn't see his eyes.

Yamehl seemed to have brought Eve into a tight hug sitting on the floor of his shop. He speaks, but it came out as an altered echo. "... It's okay. I promise you're okay. Nothing is wrong with you. I'll explain why you're suddenly changing...."

Eve is unable to speak. Even reliving the moments she suddenly is struck by strong senses of fear and dread. Then, in her sudden panic, her skin slowly pulsed in a dim, white light. She jolted as her skin would uncharacteristically change, frightful of herself.

Yamehl still remains unfazed, he only brings her in tighter. He moves in slightly but still keeping one arm wrapped around Eve's huddled frame. He lets his free hand brush her hair slightly.

Yamehl lets Eve cry for a moment, saddened, and placing his chin on the top of her head lightly. "You're like me. You're a magician. Your soul is different from others out there. It's... still normal. It's not something you did wrong, or right. You were just born with this and I'll explain everything when you are more calm...."

Eve couldn't respond. She tried, but all she could was gasp for air. After failing to say anything, all she could muster out were two words. "I-... I'm hic- s- sorry..."

Yamehl pats her head with one hand and hugs her tightly with the other. He then used the sleeve of his robe to gently wipe Eve's face of tears. "It's alright. No matter what happens... scary, odd... I'm here with you. You're not alone, I just want you to know this...." . . .

Eve, finally out of her trance and is back at her own apartment, sadly nowhere near Yamehl. She missed him so much even though it wasn't a year yet since she last saw him. It felt like years gone by just reliving a few fleeting memories. She felt terrible now, emotionally, and physically from the effects.

The man immediately snaps Eve out of her state, asking sternly. "What did he give you? One of the memories had a necklace...."

Eve was still out of it slightly, looking at him confused. She almost didn't understand at first. "The... c- communicator. We use it if we don't talk for awhile. I didn't want you to know so soon, in case I shouldn't trust you... I also wanted to tell him I'm at least okay...."

The agent scratches his head, a little disappointed that he couldn't inspect the communicator. He thinks of his next set of questions, and clears his throat. "So... You've known your mentor for a long while it seems."

Eve isn't looking at the agent anymore and is looking past him, unintentionally. He tilts his head curiously, leaning closer to meet Eve's eye. She couldn't concentrate, so she waved her hands to wait a moment for her. "Bleh~... Your ability is still making me feel sick...."

The agent's brows frown. He attempts to get closer to steady her, but Eve takes a step back. Sameer whips his head to the man and disappointedly scowls. Oddly enough, it seemed the tiger understood.

The agent keeps his hands out, showing no threat, or sudden movement. "Sorry, you had a lot of overwhelming emotions when looking into your memories. It might have made you recall everything you felt. From what I can tell, the last part was from a long time ago, but it came in very strong in your mind."

The man calmly stands. He's not doing anything Sameer would disapprove of, besides being there. He looks from the snowy tiger back up at Eve. The man sees she's still struggling a bit. She takes a moment, holding her head to stop it from spinning.

Eve answers him and explains. "Okay... sigh, and yes, I've known my mentor since I was 19. I've known my designer for longer, but they didn't learn about my abilities till I could control them better, when I returned after finding the town. After that, I would either spend a few trips out of the year, or a full year in the desert. It's like home...."

The agent breathes out, lifting a hand up and one on his heart. He swears. "I promise I won't mention it in the report, but you'll have to come up with something else to explain why you might know some things."

Eve thinks, placing a finger to her cheek. She informs the agent. "I'll say... I've searched the world and have found a few books that saved my life! I have some books my mentor let me keep. I'll use those! I'll never say where exactly, because... I found them in little nooks around the world! Just like the desert, there's towns and villages all over the world that might have traces of magic. They won't have many findings about them either."

The agent brushes it off, finding it acceptable enough. "It's an okay plan. They might ask you how you manage to find some, and where. Be prepare for the questions they might ask about it"

Eve frowns in more worry. "I could maybe ask my mentor... I really don't want this organization prying in any other places that are keeping the old ways that aren't harmful. I'll say that, and just hope they also won't go after other places because of me. I don't want any tranquil life to break. It could cause problems!"

The agent clasps his hands together, settled. He understands her concern, only hope they'll be on the same page now. "How honorable. Well, I'm sure it'll be fine. I'll write the report tomorrow. I'll be just recording your knowledge of 'magic' as you use your powers. I'll have to record any books, or odd devices and objects you use that have 'magical properties'. For now, you should sleep and get some rest for tomorrow."

Eve instead walks to the closet and starts taking out clothes. "We leave tomorrow. I should probably start packing instead, I guess...." Eve points to her door, leading to her living room. "Would you like some tea, or something, Mr...?"

The man looks away casually. "I'm alright. And, it's Agent Grey. Don't toy, sadly, I took the name that they suggested to me...."

Eve giggles, Sameer watching her perk up. Eve hums innocently. "Why? Hehe, it's very fitting, Mr. Agent Grey."

He whips his head back, barking like giving order. "It's just 'Agent Grey'. Don't need the extra, unnecessary formalities."

Eve lightheartedly beams, giving a nosy grin. "Hehe, sorry, just teasing." Eve gets a bit nervous again, not able to get past an intruder who is making her move out. She's even up and telling them about sorcery and magic. She was filled with emotions, she just couldn't process which at the moment.

Eve smiles, looking up for a moment, but then nervously looking away. Agent Grey rolls his eyes and leans to one leg, trying to get her attention once more. "Can you show me the books and things you've mentioned?"

Eve gives a short nod waves her hand to get closer the doorway of a large closet. In there, clothes and accessories were originally on top, but below were wooden, mysterious boxes.

Two odd boxes, both with very intricate and complex looking patterns on them. A small, old family photo was sitting on a bigger box. From what Agent Grey saw, it was the only picture she had around. No other family photos, none of even her, or her and Sam framed anywhere.

Eve moves the old picture carefully on top of the smaller box. She seats herself on the floor in front of the large, mysterious chest, and turns to the agent. "I actually found a lot of stuff in the desert, like this cool puzzle box! It was so fascinating, I took it apart and rebuilt it, then made a bigger one! I have books, plants, earths, and odd other findings kept safe inside them."

Eve starts to move panels, and slide pieces onto each other. She lifts a few panels on the sides and slides them up. She glided her hands around the box till the top started to open, and a top of a chest was able to be lifted up and opened.

Eve slowly takes a few objects and books out of the now open box, explaining. "So, just for the record... When someone makes a spell or potion, if it's a normal human, they still can't make the recipe correctly. Even without using their magic directly, magicians can make medicines to cure a whole array of things. I have a few ingredients, along with a lot of healing waters in the box. Never had to use them much, they do great with cuts though! Basically heals without scarring."

Eve takes one out a small bottle of water and gives it to the agent. He inspects the clear, slightly blue liquid inside. It seemed not that much out of the ordinary in appearance. Eve then giggles, getting his attention. "Why don't you use it on your legs..."

Agent Grey didn't know how to exactly use it, so he opened it up and eyed Eve as she ushered him to try it. He bends down, taking off this fresh wrap, but keeping his eyes on Eve. He was making sure he wasn't doing anything weird, but it was already weird to him.

Agent Grey coated his hand with the water and rubbed it on, then poured a bit on both legs. He saw the open scarring be sealed off as he was rubbing his legs. It seemed like they were nearly healed over. He still wasn't thrilled having to use it in the first place, but then again it is nice to not get more scarring all over his legs.

Agent Grey looks at Eve a little impressed, but wasn't going to mention it. He goes to the closet to sit next to the chest with Eve. He inspected inside on his own, peering at unidentifiable objects, and some that just looked ordinary. He takes out a large pill-shaped glass. Inside was a colored gas and a flint encased in a smaller glass tube in the middle. "What are these large capsules for?"

Eve beams and waves her hands and fingers in a flourish. She idols her hands, gesturing at the capsule in the agent's. "I made these. It's a gas or liquid, with a closed off flint in the center. Each one makes a different colored flame when broken. Like the gems and herbs I use in my memory, but with chemical engineering!"

It was something to be impressed about, that was her own design. She spent a lot of time between the desert and cities to tinker with magic and science. The agent looks at her and curiously draws out. "How... did you come up with that?"

Eve nods and clasps her hands together excitedly. "I took A LOT of college courses over a period of time online. When I first came back to Japan, I thought of using what I was learning in classes to make tools that assimilated magic. The capsules are like a spell that people can see. And, people know it's not actually magic."

"That's pretty interesting. You're very smart and creative." Agent Grey holds the fire capsule and inspects it very carefully. "Pretty assembled and well crafted. Isn't this dangerous?" He turns back to Eve. 

Eve snatches the fire capsule from the agent's hands carefully. "Not when I can control the flame now anyways. Just don't smash it regardless. I've been learning to use elements naturally like my mentor. So far, I can use a lot of different elements, or even create random occurrences."

Agent Grey seems intrigued. He leans in a bit, cocking his head to one side. "Like?"

Eve flashes a crescent-shaped smile. Miracles could happen with a bit of hope and magic. She innocently beams. "... I've made animals appear before."

Agent Grey just scrunches his face at Eve in a confused manner. He didn't want to ask how, he didn't need to know. He grabs a book. "Hm. Can I read this?" He asked, holding it up in question.

Eve just looks at him, eye lit in wonder. She wondered the same question. "If you can, that is. It's texts I don't think you would know. Some of the books are written in different texts. Even dead languages, and not just Latin."

The agent flips through pages and looks. He then immediately closes the book and places it back on top of the stack Eve made. "I see, noted. If they ask about books, they might ask you to bring them in to be analyzed."

Eve paused to think. She gives the agent a worried look. She then looks and slides though all the faces of her books. "Some of them might link them to the town... I just hope they won't go there. The herbal medicine books I'll just keep for now. The books that are mostly about general magic they would want those more anyways. They're part of an old collection, not all were written in the same place."

Eve takes half of the small stack of books away and slides the rest for Agent Grey to look at. He opens them again, just flipping through some of the pictures of rare plants, elements, people, and diagrams inside. Eve grins in some small satisfaction. "There. That way, there's a few different languages to sort through, than just the town's."

Eve starts with taking all the belongings from her closet, clothes and magical belongings. Agent Grey observes Eve, watching her as she pays no mind to him now. He pipes in after a long while of silence. "Do you need help with anything? You still need rest for tomorrow." He hums in question.

Eve twirls around with a book in her hand. She waves dismissively with the other, being carefree and lax. "I'll sleep on the plane~. Plenty of time! Oh, before we go, I have to make a video in the morning. I won't say anything, but that I can't make music my primary anymore. Unless I can get access to a rooftop, and time off to perform." After what happened, Eve was too restless to try to go back to sleep.

The man waves and brushes Eve off casually, as he looked like he was about to fall asleep. "Okay. Carry on then. If you need any help, just let me know."

Eve rolls her eyes and lightly chuckles. "Well, if you can't help prevent me from leaving, relax or rest for a while." She then darts away to go find boxes and whatever storage she has.

It no longer was a quiet night for Eve. Nor did daybreak bring much rest. Eve offered the agent breakfast before they all had to leave, with a van and moving truck to the airport. Before she ran short on time, Eve's announcement of another hiatus was posted for however long she was working in a different field of helping people. Which she only hoped was true, given no idea of her own reason for leaving, but she persuaded it to sound important even without details.

There once was a girl, beautiful, clever, and strong-willed. She lived in a broken world with many miseries, many secrets, and many trails. From it all, she was the light that illuminated the darkness. Her name was Eve Okamoto Evanara. Left alone unexpectedly at a fairly young age, her mother from an accident, father joining his wife when Eve turned 18. Even with sad and lonely tragedies, she was a positive and talented teen pop-star on YouTube. Throughout her teenage and young adulthood career, Eve brought smiles and magic wherever she went. Singing of peace and joy rather than heartache. She found herself with allies who were just like her from the other side of the screen, supporting and cheering her on. Wanting a better and happier world, just like Eve.

There was much more she did. Her knowledge of the world filled her with insight and wisdom. With her skills, Eve craved her own future, and fate did the rest. She was a full-time performer and musician but she would take hiatuses to travel, for her sake. She became renowned anywhere she went, over time becoming known as 'The White Prince' to many different circles. Being also known as Starlight★Night by those who knew her from her music, no matter who it was, they saw she was like a shining prince.

Among her past journeys, Eve met two close companions in a hidden land in the desert far from modern and normalized civilization, in a magical land called Uridian. She first met a magical man, who claimed to be a grand magician that watches over the small town. His kind and knowledge were rare to modern times, but brought to life the magic of old. With time, Eve learned as his apprentice about real life magic, something she only could dream of before. Her second friend was a white-snow tiger, whom Eve named Sameer, or Sam for short. They met unexpectedly in an emperor's palace the last time she came to the magical, desert land. Trapped and scared, Eve fled with Sam and ran back overseas to free him. Sam never wanted to leave Eve's side after that, and so they traveled together as companions.