âEven if we declared that no one else would know us better than ourselves...â
These past few months were more of a standstill to him. Yes, they were running about which was something he was used to due to his professional career. After all, it comes with the territory. But it was now of routine not only to him but also to Stella. Well, it was about time with their constant hiding and dodging the assets of the government still after them more than ever. The only difference was the personages chasing after them. He could not even see the shadow of that android chick and that blue-eyed GHOST which he had recently found to be the best among his peers. They simply vanished without a trace. Perhaps, his impression about them being stubborn as an old coot was rather an overestimation on his part. Anyway, it was good for them as the others were not much of a challenge as they were, technically.
In any case, he did not think much about it anymore. Right now, he had a purpose of coming to some desolate section of this dome. There was an abandoned house at the edge. He came here with the whim of curiosity. Before, Stella was the only one who was being trained by Cass. Now, he was also included in that session. It was because he too manifested an ability which should not be present within a normal human. Well, he was not that picky or could really care about it that much. His skill to manipulate blood was a similar ability of someone named Theodore Jenkins, a Seed. There was not much information from his past as all he knew was being dropped off at the orphanage.
Entering the building, he looked around the dusty interior. There were no furniture not even anything which can provide some kind of a clue to the existence of Theodore Jenkins, a man which could probably be his relative or more aptly father. However, he was not expecting much. Because at the end of the day, the man was already dead and he was abandoned as an infant. So, what was the use of knowing, really right? The answer to that was rather complicated than simple which he was not much of a fan. Perhaps, he simply didn't like the idea of something about himself unknown especially to him. It was fine if other people don't know anything about him, but if that included him then it was not alright at all.
Opening a drawer, he raised an eyebrow as he took out what seems to be a photo. It was really old and worn-out. The photograph edges are rusty and torn a bit. He studied it and could make out some of the faces. There was a red-haired boy that was probably Cass when he was still a kid. The others were rather smudged but identifiable. He could ask his trainer later. Although, he was a bit attracted to a male with the same eyes as him. Tucking it into his pocket, he decided that there was nothing more to this place and should return back. Stella was waiting for him to return during this time. He was not the kind to be concerned about making other people wait, but, he could make an exemption when it comes to her. Of course, he would never admit that. So, he left the area and went back to the designated safehouse.
"Is it my birthday?" Uno noted as he whistled which signified his interest of the current situation. After all, the android chick who was intent of killing them every time they see each other was now in front of him appearing so meek and what more, the GHOST shooter was nowhere to be seen. Rather, it was being accompanied by Cass. Now, this was indeed what one would call as a sight for sore eyes. "Should I consider this as a gift or a prank?" His orange eyes scanning the android chick with his trademark smirk. "So, where is your keeper?" He asked while glancing towards Cass, Stella, and then to android chick again.
âHowever, there are times that others know you better than you could comprehend with indignation...â
"Did you come here for me to scold and to reprimand you?" There was a hint of sharpness in her usual calm and gentle tone. Her eyes reflected a stern authority which one would be reminded that of a mother lecturing her child. It was not completely unexpected for the Prime Minister to pay her a visit especially with the tumultuous happenings due to a video portraying the world beyond the domes being habitable. But more than that, he knew why this man who will always be just Teleus to her had come. "I always worry about you and him. Always acting as a lone knight, but if you would just reach out; you'll find others wanting to take hold of those hands." Being one of the founding researchers of the EDEN Project, she was very intimate with the details of the project. Moreover, she had been also the moral voice among her colleagues for the people who had undergone the experimentation. "You still have not changed since you are young. Pretending not to care, not to feel, but you experience it the most."
She released a soft sigh as she looked at the tea in her hands. "That eye which you cover is proof of that. Stop punishing yourself already." Her hands tighten around her cup as she took a sip before continuing on. "Brothers... Why is it that I have always problem with such siblings? The Engels and the King. This is why I want to have daughters or perhaps, sisters..." She said in a rather wishful tone as she placed down the cup and motioned for a certain dog to come near her. "Teleus, I only hope that whatever you decide. It will make you happy." She patted the dog's head affectionately as she looked at him with caring eyes. "In the end, you are the one who care the most."
Listening to the Madame's words, it had always gave him a sense of calm even since back then. He grabbed hold of an ornamental sword hanging on the wall and looked at it with a discerning gaze. This visit was not part of his itinerary for today. However, there are moments in his life that he needed a sanctuary and it was this one for him. "I apologize for the trouble." He noted as he returned the sword to its display and looked at the mother-figure he solely recognized. Well, there was also the part where she had taught him how to make pancakes. But more than that, she was someone who would remind him that in the end, he was still doing it for the better good, in the end, he still cares. "Thank you." His expression was now that of warmth with a small smile upon his lips. "Take care of yourself." After saying that, he made a polite bow which is a gesture that is only reserved for her. And soon enough, he was on his way with Hendrew waiting for him at the exit of the Devil's Garden Cafe.
âYet, the greatest threat we have is to know ourselves all over again and not like it.â
"This is the best!" Solla exclaimed with great enthusiasm and enjoyment. She was currently enjoying a handful of dangos while the other people were looking at her intrinsic sense of fashion and odd appearance. Nevertheless, she is aesthetically beautiful. However, what really struck her rapport with the passersby was her seemingly endless appetite. "I would have Teleus bring me more of this!" She noted with happiness twinkling behind her golden eyes. It would seem that she was only but an innocent girl who was having a grand time while strolling through the town. After all, this would certainly be the first time since she had come out of Central. Everything to her is an experience worth remembering.
No one was suspicious of her energetic disposition. Actually, the people welcomed the vibrant color she seemed to exude in such a monochromatic world. It was a nice change after all. She was truly akin to her namesake in every way, she was the sun. Despite being carefree in her demeanor, she was actually here for a definitive purpose. At the end of it all, she was exposing herself for a far more important thing that sightseeing. She was here to punish those who deemed they know better. Her eyes darted above her as her smile was replaced with a deeper meaning. Of course, it was just a glimpse as she continued to walk while eating her dangos happily.
Hovering above Solla in complete stealth mode, Crux watched over her from such distance. It is why no one from the public is noticing his presence. Although, he was glad seeing her happy while eating her dangos. More than his standing orders, he wants to make sure that she will always be smiling no matter what. In any case, he was also currently scanning certain frequencies within the network which would be considered non-consequential. He believed it would be the best link for him to find the indicated targets of their current mission. That is to eliminate Stella R. Iaret and Uno Summus. He had already accessed certain files to familiarize himself with it. Seeing the digital imprint, it had been authored by an entity known as Project Zero. Something which he has not met.
Then in the middle of his search, he had finally locked on. "I have located them." Solla heard this clearly as she smiled very brightly as she raised her hand upward and then pointed at a certain direction. After all, whatever Crux sees is also within her easy reach. "Let us go!" And with that, they were both on their way as the lights surrounding them slightly flicker along with anything electronic. It was subtle but yet an unwritten invitation.