6 To Aim (2/2)

Despite this, their true foundation was both their respect for each other's abilities and their acknowledgement of equal opportunity (there was a spot for each of them at Intel). They both desired success and knew that the other was the best way to achieve that, and so they quickly developed incredible battle synergy as a pair, ignoring any clashes that came with their personalities. Their marksmanship truly mirrored each other, and both were better off because of it. By the end of third year they both were almost guarantees for Intel.

Almost.

The day before their inevitable promotion, a group of jealous cadets had vandalised her room in an attempt to provoke her. Her reputation as ”The Inferno” and this was also in part due to her aggressive personality, and these deliquents had decided to capitalise on this. They were successful, as she had burnt their entire hall to the ground in retaliation and was forced into trial with the Camp's Council. Though the council sympathised with her and understanding her motives and character, they also pointed out the danger Amber had posed towards other residents, and thus suspended her from the camp (along with the culprits, who were also justly removed).

Candidacy for Intel was by the individual, so given that Xero did not do anything reckless, he was the sole cadet promoted to that division. When heard the news about Amber he did not flinch. He remained calm and collected, as usual. After all he really didn't have much to say or express. However deep down he was incredibly sad and disappointed. That was his partner. Regardless, he accepted the promotion and has been Intel's Premier Agent and has since then achieved 7-Star Knighthood.

Amber was genuinely happy for Xero, however her anger towards the Council (and in turn, Intel) had never burnt out. Not only did she dream to join but she knew (and they knew) she deserved it, yet they turned her down. She understood the consequences for her actions, yet she never accepted the outcome. She quickly came to the resolve that she were to take matters into her own hands. She decided that she did not need Intel, and has since acted as an anonymous vigilante, shooting down villains on her own accord. She worked outside the law, taking out whoever she thought deserved it, as she took it into her own hands to give people what they deserve. Even if it came by violence.

”Yea. I know.” Amber softly replied. She took an additional sip of her frappucino and looked up at Xero.

”But I also know that you didn't come all this way to attack me both physically and emotionally. So what do you want?”

Xero removed the ice pack from his head.

”You've been summoned to Vanguard.” he replied.

Hearing this came as a shock to Amber, as she was fully aware that the newly formed Vanguard Unit was formed by Zephyrians chosen by the Crown Herself.

”The Empress knows of me?!” she asked.

”Amber, everyone knows about you. Intel have been keeping tabs on you ever since you lef-”

”Kicked. Ever since I was Kicked.”

”Again, your fault. But regardless, Intel has kept track of the good you've done these past few years, and has recently brought it to light to the Empress.”

Hearing that Intel still recognised her warmed her heart a bit, but she knew she had already moved on from it all.

”And what if I say no?”

”Well, Intel has also kept track of the damage of the damage you've dealt, and will hold you accountable for it all if you turn this down.”

Amber glanced at his sniper rifle sat next to him.

”And you're here to subdue me if I say no?”

Amber instantly armed herself with her cannon and aimed it at Xero's head. Xero did not flinch.

”I'm not going to do anything to you. But I am going joining Vanguard.” he said as he stood up from his seat, hands in his pockets.

She lowered her weapon once more and looked back at her drink.

”Come on, Amber.This is the outlet you've longed for. It's right in front of you. All you have to do is take it, and not blow it this time.”

Xero picked up his rifle, mounted it onto his back and made for the exit. He had almost fully given up on Amber.

Just as he was about to open the door, he felt her hand on his shoulder. He turned around to see cute annoyed face.

”Fine.” she said before her frown loosened up. ”I won't.”

She wrapped both arms around his neck and pulled him in for a kiss. She was not only intent on not passing up the incredibly opportunity of joining Vanguard, but she also recognised that she had a second chance to fully develop healthy relationship with the only person who had not only put up with her, but accepted her. He leaned in too, and closed the door.

And hence part 2 of Xember's (Aero sounds like it could be a chocolate bar with air bubbles) Journey had commenced.

They had fun that night.