[i]"So, what's your name?"[/i]

Without warning, the Spirit known only to the world as Reaper lashed out to grab ahold of Suichi’s arm even further. She held it like a daughter holding her father’s arm for guidance and protection…or maybe it was an overly attached affection? Who knew. Still, that would explain why Reika glared in the direction Yoshikuni had gone, leaving them alone. As it should be, not Reika’s so called “glare” wasn’t really any different that her regular expressions seen everyday. Again, who really knew what went inside that girl’s head.

Noticing that the same cat from yesterday was present with its master as well, Reaper nodded in acknowledgement of the little beast. The animal was apparently delighted to see her again so soon, though Reika couldn’t fathom why. It wasn’t like the thing could actually smell out potential Spirits like that…right? Regardless, Reika waved at it all the same before looking up at the taller boy who she had ungracefully clung onto.

“There is no need to be subtle,” she whispered blankly to him. “I am indeed the Spirit you call Reaper; though in this form, I prefer to be called by my working name.”

Working name?

“The name I must use when in the presence of fellow students and those pertaining to my workforce occupational wise.”

…so her job then?

“I am Reika. Only Reika. Nothing else. At least, I don’t think so.”

Great. It was gonna be one of those days. Still, the happy “couple” did attract some lively attention. Mainly, the black-haired boy from earlier who had displayed hidden interest in both Reika and Yoshikuni. Seeing as the silver-haired girl was now with someone else, the boy casually shrugged before following after Yoshikuni.

It didn’t take very long to follow her to the shelter, and he even managed to slip by while the entrances began to lock down. Pointing her out to himself, he slowly approached her, making sure to stand right next to the Spirit. Shaking his head, he sighed with exasperation.

“Aw jeex, all these Spacequakes,” he muttered. “I’m supposed to be studying for a Geometry exam right about now. Though I guess it’s for the best…hey maybe no test next week!”

He turned to Yoshikuni.

“But, uh, do you know how long these things usually take?”

Elsewhere, the AST agents would be receiving a message carried through their communication networks. The voice was different than their usual orders, in that it was male and light, as if he was ready to burst out in laughter at any second now.

[b]“Attention all deployed AST Units: Please make yourselves known back at your headquarters effective and immediately. I understand the brevity of your current mission right now; however, I also understand Shadow’s past tactics and how her Spacequakes have been nothing but minor scare tactics. Please attend this serious meeting, as it pertains to your future under our employment. DEM Industries.”[/b]