Heyo just gonna throw myself back into the deep end of writing here and hoping I don't miss the bandwagon for this kind of story. Although I might be okay this time considering. Poor Agent 8 doens't get much love story wise.

So I may have beaten the octo expansion in less than 2 days.

Whoops.

Regardless of that! This chapter is a lot shorter than my usual stuff but I should be updating this one more regularly. Hopefully it'll help me get back into my other stories and we can eventually see those ones finished!

And speaking of other stories! I will be uploading my works over on Archive Of Our Own too! I might update over there sooner than here so it's not a bad idea to keep an eyeball on me over there. I might do exclusive stories or AOO exclusives too so keep in mind when reading!

Okay enough pandering. Enjoy folks! As usual if you enjoyed or have suggestions please feel free to let me know!

...

They had done it. They had defeated Tartar and Inkopolis was safe. It had been a hard fight, and none of them would be known for it, but somehow if felt right. It was already going to be tricky to explain the newest addition to the city, let alone that they had been part of the experiment to try and sanitize everyone. The backlash was just too dangerous.

Both Pearl and Marina decided it was best to play it safe, and head back to the privacy of their home rather than going immediately to the studio. Considering the cargo they were carrying. Agent 3 rubbed the back of his head, feeling a sharp pain as he brushed against his injury. "You were lucky. Much longer with that stuff and we might not have gotten you back." Marina smiled over, hoping it would cheer up the sullen inkling.

"Yeah…" Her kind attempts didn't do much to cheer him up. "I can't help but feel horrible though. What I did to her. Ya know?" His eyes trailed from the floor to look over at the idol duo. They both nodded in understanding.

Capt. Cuddlefish waved his hand dismissively as he smiled over at Agent 3. "That may be kiddo but she's a tough girl. Besides! You've got bigger fish to fry than the one eating at your heart." The captain scratched at his beard as he pondered a moment. "We will no doubt have to do some crowd control when we land, so ya best get yourself ready. No time to wallow."

Agent 3 sighed, knowing he was right. After all it was his job as an agent to make sure that Inkopolis was safe always. Even if it meant having to get over his personal doubts. "Besides! You can be sure to tell the lass your thanks when she's awake!" The captain laughed heartily, offering the inkling a pat on the back.

Pearl tilted her head slightly, staring at the old man. "Awake? I thought she was!" Standing up on her seat, Pearl looked behind her. Sure enough, there was the little octoling fast asleep. Agent 8 was no doubt exhausted after everything they had been through and must have been lulled by the gentle rock of the helicopter. It should have been of little surprise to see her curled up on the cushioned seat. "Huh…I don't think I could ever sleep on a spot that small."

"Let her rest Pearl. We have to figure out what we're going to do when we're back." Marina dragged the attention away from the octoling, hoping to let her get some peace. "Okay so I'm thinking…"

.

..

...

...

"TEST FAILED." Agent 8 could feel the words just as much as she could hear them, the inevitable following up just after. She had barely started the test too, failing within just a few short seconds. It was infuriating and unpleasant. Eight couldn't help but swear softly under her breath as she tried to ready herself for another attempt.

Again. Just try it again.

She kept telling herself. But without fail, it would end with her empty handed.

Eventually her worn walls crumbled as she dropped to her knees, angry and frustrated. Eight couldn't help the tears welling in her eyes and she pounded her fists against the ground, spewing curses through gritted teeth. A short time passed before the conductor, C.Q. Cumber spoke up. "Perhaps it's best to take a break." His voice held no mockery, no ill intent, but she still felt the sting in her heart. Break. That word held a different meaning to her right now. Break meant no better than Give Up.

Give up. Just give it up.

It's not going to happen.

You're not good enough.

Agent 8 choked back a small sob as she picked herself up, wiping her eyes on her sleeve and retreating to the silence of the metro. She didn't even bother to look at the captain, knowing he would only try and console her. Instead she chose to hide herself in the furthest corner. The expression on his face as she passed him by was not hurt but understanding. The bench was small and there were a few abandoned suitcases lining the end of the car, but it was quiet and offered her a little privacy. Eight curled into a ball as she fought back the emotions that threatened to defy her.

'I'm not good enough.'