Chapter 7

You'll never know how much of an impact you've made to a person, even with just the tiniest action.

-/-

So much has happened since my friends discovered my occupation as an agent. Aside from the things happening in the agency, my friends continued to keep a close eye on me. Making sure I'm healthy, eating right and keeping hydrated, as well as making sure that I don't overwork often.

Of course, I, being sly and all, sometimes escape their monitoring, for which I am very sorry.

With this attitude, it does not do well with a certain member of μ's, and, yes, you guessed it, it's Umi.

But even with my naughty behavior, she still cares for me. This baffled me for some time, thinking such things like: 'Why is she still putting up with me? Isn't it that I'm much of a burden already?' Those words keep repeating inside my head like a broken radio, discouraging me and making me think more negative things about myself.

And then I remembered her words. She wasn't taking care of me because she's forced to. She—they're taking care of me because they want to.

Even if I'm a burden, a nuisance and a pain, they chose to care, to cherish, and to love.

They helped me physically, mentally, and emotionally, and before I knew it, I was changing. Because of Umi and the others, they made me grow and mature, made me who I am today, made me look forward to another day seeing them.

Because of her actions, her words and everything, I fell for her.

Sonoda Umi, I can never thank you enough. Because you've taken care of me, I would do the same and protect you, even at the cost of my life. Words cannot express how grateful and lucky I am to have you.

-/-

(After Episode 8)

Eli sipped a bit of her cup of tea, enjoying the warmth that spread all throughout her.

"Are you alright, Eli?" The girl seated next to her asked, a cup of tea in her hands as well.

"Mhn… Thanks for accompanying me here, Umi." Eli replied with a smile, leaning onto the archer after they both placed their cups onto the table.

"Anything for you." Umi said, a light blush settled on her cheeks as Eli rest her head onto her shoulder and wrapped her arms around her. The blonde closed her eyes as Umi pat her head gently.

Ever since their kiss, the two had continued to stay with each other. Although they both still hadn't declared that they were girlfriends—or they were too embarrassed to declare it—they settled with knowing that they are 'more than friends'.

"You're…okay with me right?" Eli asked hesitantly, both her eyes peeked open as her hand grasped onto the archer's. She was still nervous around the archer despite her reassurances.

Umi gave Eli a knowing smile before she pressed her lips onto the top of the blonde's head, ignoring the growing blush on her cheeks. She gently placed a blanket over the both of them and whispered,

"I love you…"

"I love you too…"

-/-

"Huh? Eli-chan! Why do you always forget to pack lunch?" Honoka asked; a concerned expression on her face. "You make Alisa-chan lunch every day, why don't you make some for yourself?"

"I-It became a habit; I usually didn't eat lunch before…" Eli explained, a nervous expression on her face, knowing that two particular people would probably be reprimanding her soon.

"Ehhh? That's not healthy, Eli-chan… You should eat." Hanayo joined in the conversation, sitting down next to Rin who was munching on a sandwich.

"Dawths rihghut, Heri-chawn!" Rin said enthusiastically.

"It's best if you don't talk while you're eating, Rin-chan…" Kotori reminded with a sigh.

It took only about four minutes before the rest of the group arrived and settled in. Eli avoided both Umi's and Nozomi's gaze, knowing that she'll be scolded again for not bringing her lunch and instead, brought her homework due next week.

"Eli…" Umi's low voice called out to the blonde who jolted as a shiver ran down her spine.

"Y-Yes, U-Umi-san…" Eli said, smiling at the archer nervously.

"This is bad, Umi-chan's gonna blow." Honoka murmured, she hid behind Kotori with Rin.

"We need to take cover, nya!" Rin exclaimed, clutching onto Kotori's uniform as she ducked, covering her head the same way they would do if an earthquake was happening.

Umi sighed, seeing Eli's expression filled with nervousness as well as a hint of fear. The archer rummaged her bag and brought out a sky blue bento box, she placed it in front of the blonde who had a confused expression on her face.

"I asked my mother to prepare extra lunch for you since you always forget to bring yours." Umi said as she sat down next to the blonde and brought out her own navy blue bento. "She agreed and even offered to make you lunch every day."

Eli's mouth hung open in shock as she quietly opened the bento.

"Eli?" Umi called out to the blonde who seemed to have frozen right on the spot. She leaned in to look at the blonde.

Tears. That was the first thing Umi had noticed; Eli was crying.

"Eli…" Umi whispered, she rubbed the blonde's back to comfort her. She doesn't need to ask why and she's sure that the others are well aware of the reason.

The blonde hastily tried to wipe her tears away but it didn't stop. She didn't understand, just seeing a wholesome bento made just for her brought a sudden wave of emotions, emotions she had felt when she was young, when she was with her grandmother and younger sister.

"I'm s-sorry… I-It's just… I-I haven't had one of these in such a l-long time… I o-only remember… W-What my grandmother made for me before…" Eli said, in between sobs. "A-And this… Looks s-so much like it…"

The group looked surprised but was soon replaced with a warm smile.

Umi pulled the crying blonde into a hug before she said, "It's okay, Eli. You're with us now."

-/-

"To the agents currently ranked 1st to 5th, remain at your dormitories; your ranking examination will commence later, 8 am. To the rest of the agents, proceed to the training facility. The ranking examination for you all commence in 5 minutes. I repeat…"

The announcement was heard all throughout the building and immediately, the agents proceeded to the training facility.

Eli peeked outside through her dorm's window, spotting several agents hurrying to leave.

=== Current time: 5:54:49 am

She lay down on her bed as she rolled to her side. My test will be done later; I've still got plenty of time. But after that, I still have my special training to attend to.

Eli sighed to herself before she sat up. I won't be at all productive today if I just lay down… She went to her desk and started doing some paperwork and her homework.

-/-

"I'm home, mother. I brought the groceries you asked for." Umi announced as she entered her family's household.

"Thank you, Umi. You can go rest in your room; we'll practice for the dance exhibit later tonight." Akemi said, smiling at the archer as she walked into the living room and handed over the goods.

At the same time, Ryuu appeared, preparing to go to work. "Ah, Umi. Good morning."

"Good morning, father." Umi replied, bowing slightly. "Are you off to work?"

"Yes. The ranking examination for the upper ranks will commence by the time I arrive, I'll have to keep an eye on Ayase since she has training right after." Ryuu muttered; his voice low as he fixed his tie and suit.

"Oh…" Umi muttered quietly as she looked down.

Akemi and Ryuu started talking but Umi didn't register any of their words. Should I…? It wouldn't hurt to try… Right?

"Um…!" Umi blurted out awkwardly, interrupting her parents' conversation. A few seconds of silence passed before she said in a hesitant voice, "Father, I don't mean to be rude but, is it… Is it alright for me to join you…? Going to the agency…"

Ryuu looked at Umi, a questioning look on his face.

"I just… I'm not sure… I just want to see how it's like…" Umi mumbled nervously and hesitantly. She continued to look down onto the floor, hoping that her father would at least consider.

"Umi—"

"Why not?" Akemi's voice came all of a sudden, cutting what Ryuu was about to say and surprising Umi with her sudden words.

Ryuu turned towards his wife, a concerned expression on his face. "Akemi, you know very well that taking Umi there would cause several of Ayase's superiors to become angry with her because of the past incident. It's not safe for her to be there."

"Still, why not? With that in mind, I know you wouldn't let any harm come to your daughter and I'm sure Ayase-san would not allow that too." Akemi replied, smiling at her daughter who had a grateful expression on her face.

"But—"

"It's okay dear." Akemi said, giving a gentle smile to her husband. "She has to know; she's part of this now."

Ryuu fell silent as he grit his teeth. He knew what those words meant but he still wasn't ready to show his daughter what EFO actually is. He released a pained sigh as he ran his hand through his hair before he said, "Fine, prepare yourself."

Umi's face lit up and she smiled. "Thank you very much! Father, mother!"

-/-

The way to the agency was fairly quick. Ryuu just had to brief Umi with the rules of the agency and told her what would be happening during the day, but there was a sentence that bothered Umi the most.

"Don't interfere with anything, even if it becomes painful to watch."

Umi pondered on that sentence for quite a while, she was only brought out of her thoughts when they arrived at the agency.

"Huh?" Umi looked at the building, recognizing it to be the insurance company which was not well known.

"Looks can be deceiving." Ryuu stated simply as he brought out his ID. He showed it to the guard who nodded in approval; he then leaned forward and whispered some things.

Umi had a confused and nervous expression on her face as the guard approached.

"Your hand." The guard said and hesitantly, Umi lifted her arm. The guard slipped on fingerless gloves onto her hand and placed an earpiece in her ear. He then pressed the button situated on it.

A sudden wave of dizziness washed over Umi, making her step back a bit to regain her balance, luckily, the dizziness was short lived as it was gone within a few seconds.

The guard nodded once more and gestured to Ryuu who thanked him in reply. They entered the building, greeted by a receptionist who recognized Ryuu immediately, nodded towards him.

"The security is quite strict here; you'll need to pass through quite a few procedures before getting in, even if you're an outsider." Ryuu stated as they both entered the elevator. He typed in a code on the screen situated on the right wall of the elevator.

When they arrived at the designated floor, they were greeted by stares, mostly directed to Umi. However, Ryuu payed them no heed and proceeded walking while Umi just bowed her head and followed.

"Keep quiet here; don't talk to anyone except the people you know." Ryuu said as they both entered a spacious room, they walked to the side and Ryuu gestured Umi to stay put.

"Oh, if it isn't Ryuu." Someone spoke.

Umi looked up, her eyes landed on a man approaching her and Ryuu, a white lab coat was draped over his shoulders and he looked unfriendly and reserved, however a sinking feeling settled in Umi's stomach, signaling her that there was something off with him.

"Hachiro." Ryuu greeted coldly, stepping in front of Umi protectively. "Well? Shouldn't you be readying yourself? The ranking examination for the superior ranks will commence soon."

"I have, just waiting for them to come." Hachiro turned to Umi. "I'm sure Ayase would be surprised to find you here."

Umi tensed, she glanced to her father who just nodded curtly. "L-Likewise." Umi replied, bowing her head slightly.

"Very respectful." Hachiro commented, smiling at the archer. "I am knowledgeable that both you and Ayase are quite diligent and successful, both in academics and extracurricular activities, keep up the good work."

"Thank you very much, sir." Umi said softly.

"My, my, Ryuu. Now I understand how you act, both Ayase and your daughter are quite alike." Hachiro said, grinning slightly at Ryuu's reaction who looked away, gritting his teeth.

Umi was confused due to Ryuu's reaction towards what Hachiro said, however she didn't ponder too much on it.

"Say," Hachiro turned to Umi once more. "Do you wish to be one of EFO's agents?"

Umi opened her mouth to reply but a cold yet familiar voice spoke out of the blue.

"I apologize for intruding into this conversation, however the ranking examination will commence very soon, and I suggest we start the preparations. As for the answer to your question, no, she does not wish to become an agent and even if she does, I will not allow it."

They turned to the person who spoke, their eyes widening slightly.

"E-Eli?" Umi muttered in which Eli glanced at her and nodded in response. The blonde was in her agent uniform, one that was familiar for her to see but she was still not used to seeing Eli wear it.

"Ayase. I thought you knew well enough not to intrude into anyone's conversation." Hachiro said, his voice sounding dangerous. "And to think that you answered a question not addressed to you."

"I am aware; however the actions I have made has been done. And for that, I apologize, if you wish, I will accept any punishment you wish to give me." Eli said in reply, bowing down.

Umi stared at Eli in shock; did she just offer herself up for punishment? Umi opened her mouth to speak but nothing came out. Eli's voice scared her, it was so different from when they were together; it was just emotionless, as if she transformed into a different person.

"Well then, it seems that you still know your place." Hachiro said as he knocked Eli's head with his knuckle, alerting Umi and making her flinch. He leaned in and whispered something into Eli's ear.

Umi didn't hear what Hachiro said nor did she try to, but what he said made Eli's eyes widen and her hands tremble slightly. She looked into Eli's eyes and found a tinge of fear in them.

"A-As you wish s-sir." Eli stuttered out and she hung her head.

Hachiro's expression remained emotionless as he turned to Umi. "I'll see you around." He walked away, a grin on his face.

Ryuu glared at Hachiro for a second before he turned to Eli and held her by the arms. "What did he say?"

"I-Ichiro-heichou…" Eli said softly, her hands still trembling but she tried her best to stop it. Not again… She thought miserably but there was an unsettling feeling in her gut ever since she started to talk to Hachiro.

"Tch, that—"

"The ranking examinations for ranks 1 to 5 will now commence. Agents, proceed to your designated places. I repeat…"

The announcement interrupted their conversation.

"I need to go. Thank you, Sonoda-heichou." Eli said as she bowed. She then looked up and smiled weakly at Umi. "I'll see you later, Umi."

The blonde then walked away hastily and joined the other people in the room whom Umi concluded to be the other agents. Umi sighed before she muttered quietly to herself,

"Eli…"

-/-

The ranking examination lasted for about four hours. The program that took the most time was the imitation missions but Umi was surprised and somehow proud as she watched; in the end, Eli had the least time out of all the other ranks.

"The ranking examination is now finished, to all agents, you are now dismissed, you may head home, however there is an exception of the current Rank 1, Ayase Eli, please stay in the training facility."

Umi's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Will Eli have to attend to training or a meeting? She thought, sighing as she walked around, hoping to find Eli before she would have to do attend to something again.

Before she could even move from her spot, however, Ryuu held her by the wrist and gestured her to follow him. Umi frowned slightly but nodded soon after.

-/-

They entered a small room, big enough to fit at least three to six people. There was a bench in the middle, allowing a great view for observation through a window overlooking the training facility.

Ryuu and Umi sat down onto the bench, a confused look still present on Umi's face.

"This is a two-way mirror. I didn't want you to stand outside, and you might run off to do something." Ryuu said; a wary expression on his face.

"Why?" Umi asked quietly. She looked through the mirror, spotting Eli who was talking to a few men dressed in lab coats.

"You'll understand soon." Ryuu replied simply.

-/-

A metal table supported by four poles emerged from the floor of the room, one where Eli had laid on on several occasions. The emotionless look on Eli's face remained as she approached the table, spotting the familiar metal restraints that bound her on the table before.

"Ayase. If you will." Hachiro's emotionless voice called out in which Eli climbed onto the table swiftly and laid down. Several other men—which Eli figured were facilitating the training—approached and proceeded to place the restraints around Eli's wrists, neck, waist, thighs and ankles.

Once they were secure, Eli nodded towards Hachiro who nodded back in acknowledgment. He then gestured to the men and they proceeded to place small detectors on Eli's temples, palms, and soles of her feet, they then tapped on Eli's earpiece, checking on the chip they had inserted before. The men then stepped back once they were done. The table's two poles nearest the blonde's head then elevated much more, allowing Eli to face Hachiro and the men with him.

"Commencing Special Training Number 3, Phase 1." Hachiro said out loud as he raised three of his fingers. "3, 2, 1!"

-/-

Even from Umi's view, she could see Eli's hands curl into fists and her whole body tense.

"Wh-What's happening?" Umi asked quietly as she continued to observe Eli's movements.

"This is special training." Ryuu said, his voice hesitant yet emotionless. "The chip inserted in her earpiece is turned on, delivering pain to her head to mimic the effects of a special chip that she would be using for her mission."

"Huh?" Umi' s mouth hung open. Pain? Why…

"Pain level increased, continuing for two minutes."

Hachiro's voice rang out clear. Eli weakly nodded in response, she clenched her fists and grit her teeth, the pain becoming worse.

"Why?" Umi asked her father, her eyes wide while tears laced the edge of her eyes. "Father…?"

Ryuu grit his teeth before answering silently, "I have no say regarding this training, the higher ups ordered it and its final. Even Ayase, she's only following orders. They say that this will help her be accustomed to the pain brought by the special chip."

Umi stood up and approached the glass in front of her; she raised her shaking hands, touching the place where Eli was seen through.

Ryuu could only stare at his daughter with a sad look on his face. This is why he didn't want to bring Umi to the agency, but he has a feeling that she should know, about everything, even his wife did too.

-/-

The 'training' continued on for about ten more minutes. The pain level increasing and decreasing at various times, causing Eli to cry out suddenly but she forced herself to suppress her cries by biting on her lip—too much that it drew out blood.

When the pain finally left, Eli slumped, her head hung; if it weren't for the metal around her neck, her whole upper body would've slumped down completely. Without a word or a warning, the table then resumed its original position as she tried to steady her heavy breathing, her exhaustion taking over.

The men from before approached and removed the restraints and detectors before pressing a button on Eli's earpiece.

"Preparing for Special Training 3, Phase 2."

Eli slowly sat up, the ache in her head still present. She stood up, wavering a bit in her footing and making her grip onto the table for temporary support. The lingering pain in her head causing her dizziness.

A dummy model then appeared before her, a target symbol printed on the center.

Eli wiped her chin, taking away the blood that had dripped before plastering an emotionless expression on her face. She positioned herself in front of the model, mentally preparing herself for what she was about to do.

-/-

Umi grit her teeth for the umpteenth time. For the whole time Eli was 'training', she settled uncomfortably in her seat with her father observing her closely. She would tense up or flinch occasionally, especially the time when Eli gasped out all of a sudden or when blood drew out from her lip; it was as if both of them were being hurt. But it was true, even if she couldn't feel Eli's physical pain; she was being hurt mentally and emotionally.

"Commencing Special Training Number 3, Phase 2." Hachiro announced, the same emotionless expression on his face. He gestured to Eli who nodded weakly in response.

Umi continued watching Eli, unconsciously keeping herself literally on the edge of her seat. She kept assuring herself that Eli would be fine, that she's okay.

-/-

Eli closed her eyes and breathed in deeply.

=== Special Chip Activation: 30 % Power

"User: ES-02AE. Permission: Granted. Commencing Power Charge." Eli dictated; her voice loud yet void of any emotion as the people present waited quietly.

=== Power Charged: 3.6%

An electrifying feeling spread all throughout her body, raising her body temperature higher than before. She raised her right arm, her palm directed to the target in front of her as her left hand supported her right by grasping onto her right forearm.

=== Power Charged: 11.2%

Sparks of electricity emitted from around Eli's arms as a very small ball of electricity settled in the middle of her palm.

=== Power Charged: 18.7%

"Agh…!" Eli gasped out, the pain intensifying. It was much more painful, and to think that she was only activating not even half of the chip's power; what more if she was to use more than what she was using now?

"Concentrate Ayase!" Hachiro's commanding voice rang out clear, leaving no arguments.

=== Power Charged: 23.5%

The ball of electricity slowly increased in size but it wasn't even as big as a ping pong ball. Strands of electricity snaked around Eli's arm, connecting to the ball.

Eli swallowed back another pained gasp. The burning pain had spread, not only to her head but mostly to her arm and chest.

=== Power Charged: 30.0%

"Power Ch-Charged. Co-Commencing Usage." Eli managed to say out loud.

The ball of electricity flashed before it spread, strands of electricity hitting and electrifying the target in front of her until the ball grew smaller and smaller before vanishing into nothingness.

"Special Training 3, complete." Hachiro announced with the same cold voice. "All people present are dismissed."

Eli wavered in her footing, her vision blurring. There was a pulsing pain in her head as she felt a warm liquid trail down from her right ear where her earpiece was. She managed to stay in place before she said weakly, "U-Understood, s-sir—"

Her knees buckled. Her vision blackened.

"Eli!"

The blonde looked up, feeling warmth all throughout her front. Her vision was still blurry and it was blackening every few seconds but she could still make out the familiar figure of the archer.

"Umi what the hell do you think you're doing?!" Ryuu's startled and angered voice came all of a sudden. "Get back here!"

Eli slumped onto Umi, falling unconscious completely. Umi, completely ignoring her father's words, felt something warm touch her arm, she looked down, gasping at the blood that was flowing from Eli's ear; it was much more than before.

Three medics approached, two of them carrying a stretcher. They pulled Eli away from Umi who reluctantly let go, immediately they bolted away from the training facility, off to the aid department.

Umi stood in place, a worried expression on her face before she was suddenly turned around.

"What the hell was that?! Didn't I tell you not to interfere with anything?!"

Umi calmly faced her father and said, "I didn't interfere with anything, father. The training was finished. The man from before dismissed Eli therefore all training, procedures and processes have been completed."

She looked up, her eyes looking straight into her father's, "In addition, even if I would be interfering with something or breaking rules or receiving a punishment, I would still be there for Eli, just like she did for us. She deserves plenty of love and care after all the things she's going through and I'll gladly be the one to give her that."

Ryuu's mouth opened in shock as Umi continued to stare at him with her hardened and determined expression.

"Sonoda-heichou," A voice interrupted the both of them. They both looked at the person, identifying them to be one of the medics. "Agent Ayase has been treated; she's being transferred to her dorm at the moment."

"I-I… Y-Yes, alright. Thank you, we'll head there now." Ryuu said, bowing slightly before he turned to Umi, his eyes glued onto the floor. "F-Follow me."

-/-

"Ayase, we're coming in." Ryuu said; knocking on the door of Eli's dormitory.

They entered the room, seeing Eli on seated at the side of her bed, her eyes half closed and the side of her head was cleaned and free of any blood.

"Eli…" Umi said; a hint of relief present in her voice. She approached the blonde giving her a momentary hug before she backed away, checking Eli around for any injuries. She was about to reach for her shoulder when Eli grasped her hand and smiled weakly to her.

"I'm fine, Umi." Eli said, lowering the archer's hand. Umi nodded, feeling a little disappointed that she had to stop.

"Ayase, does it hurt anywhere?" Ryuu asked, concerned.

Eli shook her head and turned to face her captain. "They gave me pain medicine. The pain's been numb ever since I woke up."

"Oh," Ryuu said before he placed a hand on top of Eli's head. "I'll be going out to have a short talk with Hachiro and the other heads. You two can stay here for awhile, when you're able to go, just head to my office so that I could lead you outside."

"You're staying, father?" Umi asked.

"Yes, I still have quite a lot of work to do and another meeting to attend to." Ryuu said in reply while retracting her hand from Eli's head. "Ayase's free to go, though. You can both go spend some time somewhere if you want."

"Thank you, Heichou." Eli said, smiling weakly.

Ryuu then gestured to Umi, as if he was saying: 'take care of her.' Umi nodded in reply before the older Sonoda left the room.

Immediately after hearing the door close, Umi felt Eli slump onto her.

"Eli...?" Umi asked unsurely as she moved closer to the blonde and snaked her arms around her.

"Help me forget..." Eli whispered, her voice sounding tired and weak.

With a sigh, Umi placed her hands on the side of Eli's head and gently tilted her head up to face her. Eli's tired cerulean eyes met her amber orbs, there was a noticeable blush on present on Eli's cheeks and she was biting her lip as well.

Oh. That's what she wants... Umi thought, a blush growing on her cheeks as well.

She placed her hand on Eli's chin, her finger just brushing below the blonde's lip. Umi gave another sigh as she spotted the cut on Eli's lip.

She leaned forward, stopping herself just before their lips meet. She looked at Eli for confirmation but the blonde's eyes were just staring at her lips. That was enough for Umi to confirm before she pressed their lips together.

The archer placed her arms around the blonde, pulling her closer as the blonde did the same. It only lasted for about a few seconds before they backed away, a very deep blush present on both their cheeks.

"I love you, Eli..."

"I love you too, U—"

The archer dove in for another kiss, this time she slipped her tongue in. Umi heard the blonde intake a sharp breath as she kissed back. The intensity of the kiss making the blonde fall on her back, bringing the archer with her.

Umi could hear nothing but only the sighs—moans that Eli releases, making her crave more of the blonde. She tastes sweet...Chocolate...? Umi thought as Eli's hand reached for the back of her head, her fingers sliding through her soft blue hair.

They gasped when they pulled back, their breathing heavy and both had deep blushes on their faces.

Their foreheads touched as Umi pulled Eli up, back to their original position. There was a second of silence before Eli reached up to touch Umi's gloved hand.

"You're wearing it..." Eli said as she looked up, spotting the familiar earpiece in Umi's ear. "Even the earpiece too..."

"It was from the guard outside..." Umi replied.

"It's like you're an agent too." Eli chuckled slightly, a bit of sadness present in her voice.

"Just like you?"

"But I don't want you to be an agent..." Eli said, pulling the archer to an embrace. She placed her chin on the archer's shoulder and sighed.

Umi rubbed the back of Eli's head in which the blonde hummed in response.

"Do you want to go out?" Umi asked.

Eli shook her head before she said weakly, "I want to go home...with you. I just want to forget about everything and cuddle you till we fall asleep."

"Okay, then that's what we'll do." Umi said, smiling as she pulled the blonde to her feet.

"I love you, Umi." Eli said as she gave the archer a short peck on the cheek. "I didn't get to say it earlier..." The blush that had once subsided awhile ago came back once again.

"I'll start preparing so we could go."

"Okay..."

-/-

Both Eli and Umi were accompanied going out of the agency by Ryuu, most people around them giving stares to the archer as they silently walked out. The guard outside took off the glove and earpiece that was with Umi and Ryuu gave the two a few reminders before they headed to Eli's home. The walk wasn't too long but both remained silent on the way there.

They were about to turn to the next street but Umi felt Eli tug on her sleeve.

"Can we stop by a combini...? I don't think I have the energy to make dinner..." Eli said, chuckling nervously. "But if you really want to taste my cooking again I can make an exception..."

"Its okay, Eli." Umi said in reply, smiling encouragingly before an idea popped in her head. "How about I let you taste my cooking?"

"You can cook?!" Eli gasped, a hand going over her mouth playfully.

"Mou, Eli! I'm not useless you know!" Umi argued, pouting.

"Sorry, sorry." Eli said while she tried to stop her laughter. "But I don't want you to get tired, and it's probably been a long day for the both of us." She continued; her tone apologetic.

"I see, it's alright with me." Umi replied as she gave a small smile.

They then headed to a nearby convenience store which they spent more time than expected since Umi had to scold Eli once again for just choosing a small pack of onigiri, who argued that that was her dinner when she had the time.

In the end, Umi had chosen a packed bento for both her and Eli, and of course, the blonde did not protest, however, she grabbed a bar of chocolate before they left.

"You're going to gain weight if you keep eating too much chocolate." Umi said with a disapproving tone as they both entered Eli's apartment. Alisa was not present at the moment to which Eli stated along the way that she's staying overnight at Honoka's and Yukiho's.

"But I don't even get to eat much..." Eli pouted as she entered the living room, Umi following her from behind.

Umi didn't reply as she made a turn to the kitchen. She placed the packed bentos in the microwave, a second later she heard Eli slump onto the sofa. She took a peek at the blonde, making sure that she's okay before she returned to the kitchen.

"Eli... the food's ready..." Umi said after a few minutes as she set down both bentos at the table.

"M'kay... Coming... Thanks for preparing it..."

-/-

Their dinner wasn't that eventful, except for the times Eli was teasing Umi about love things or the times Umi was laughing at Eli who had food smeared on her chin. After they both had cleaned up, they settled at the sofa, Eli grinning as she brought her chocolate bar with her.

"I still don't understand your love for chocolate..." Umi said, chuckling slightly as she sat down next to the blonde.

"It's pretty simple, Umi! I mean, chocolate makes everything better right?" Eli grinned at the archer as she opened the bar and popped a piece of chocolate in her mouth.

"I...still don't understand..." Umi replied, looking at Eli who happily munched on the chocolate.

"Well do you want me to show you?"

"Huh?" Umi eyed the blonde; there was a mischievous glint in her eyes as she bit onto the chocolate once again. Don't tell me... "What do you me—mhpf!" I knew it...

Eli kissed her, and with her mouth open, the blonde was able to slip her tongue in just like how Umi did awhile ago, but this time, there was a piece of chocolate that Eli pushed into Umi's mouth.

The blonde held onto the archer's shoulders while the latter pulled her closer with her arms around the blonde's waist.

She's right...Chocolate does make everything better... Umi thought before Eli bit onto her lip gently, catching her off guard as she released a moan. The blush on her cheeks deepened in color right after; not knowing that she could release such sounds until now.

She was about to take revenge and give Eli a taste of her own medicine when Eli pulled back, stopping their kiss abruptly.

"E-Eli...?" Umi looked at the blonde. Her cheeks are red but she was sure that it wasn't as red as hers. She had a pained expression on her face and a second later, her hand went up to clutch onto her head.

"Eli! What's—What's happening?" Umi said frantically, her hands going up to hold the blonde on the shoulders. She was becoming pale.

"My...head..." Eli spoke weakly. It was aching, badly. It had been for awhile but she chose not to tell the archer, however, the pain increased overtime. She slowly rubbed circles on her temples to help ease the pain but it didn't do much.

She then felt a sudden piercing pain from her head, causing her to gasp out suddenly. She felt herself grow faint, falling into Umi's arms.

"Eli..." Umi said, her voice sounding worried as she placed her hand on top of the blonde's head and the other reached out to hold onto the blonde's hand.

"I'm...fine... This a-always happens after s-special training... It'll only last 'till tomorrow..." Eli said, gripping onto the archer's hand tightly as she felt another surge of pain.

"Please bear with it, Eli. I'll go get your medi—"

"N-No!" Eli gasped out, almost desperately. The grip on her hand tightening as she buried her face into the crook archer's neck. "Don't... Don't go... I want you here..."

"But you're still in pain..."

"I-I don't care..." She groaned in pain as she tried suppressing her gasps. She looked at Umi in the eye, her pained yet determined cerulean orbs meeting her worried amber eyes. "As long as you're with me... I believe that... I'll be able to surpass anything..."

Umi just stared at Eli, her eyes widening slightly. That's how much she... Umi bit her lip before she nodded and stated firmly, "I'll stay with you, starting today up until we part ways, I promise to stay with you, only if you could promise me the same..."

Eli stared back, her mind still processing what she had just heard. When she finally realized it, she almost gasped, she forgot about the pain in her head anymore as tears appeared at the edge of her eyes before she nodded vigorously.

"I promise..."

-/-

There was an ear-piercing scream that filled the room; a navy blue haired woman was seated at the center, her arms and legs tied to the chair. Her scream died out, leaving her writhing and gasping in pain.

Three men stood at the side, one of which was wearing a lab coat, the other wearing the familiar uniform of an EFO agent. The last man stood behind the two, his clothes and face not seen due to the dim light.

"This has been going on for a week already, am I correct?"

"Yes, father. The special chip—the same thing with Ayase—will be able to function like this, you will also be able to control her by using commands sent to the chip, it's kind of like brainwashing. With the control function, you'll be able to make her do anything you want—make her kill the one she loves or make her fight them—and she will still be able to see what she's doing, it'll be pure torture for her."

"There are also side effects of using this, like memory loss and triggering migraines. Ayase has migraines every once in awhile according to the aid department, this, I believe would be helpful as well, Takeo."

"Indeed. It's perfect; it would surely make things easier when I put my plan into action. Could you demonstrate it for me using her?"

"As you wish, father."

The woman breathed heavily, as she felt the excruciating pain go away, leaving a constant ache in her head. She breathed in shakily, as she looked up weakly, seeing the man dressed with the uniform approach.

"H-Hiroki-k-kun... P-Please... Don't d-do this..." The woman pleaded, there were tears streaking down on her face as she breathed out unevenly.

"Nothing you say will make me change my mind. You devoted yourself to me the second we became a couple. Now be a good girlfriend and keep quiet."

"P-Please Hiroki-k-kun... D-Don't drag my l-little sister and h-her friend into this... You can do a-anything to m-me... Just not my s-sis—"

A sudden slap resonated through the room.

"Shut up! You don't get to decide anything! Now just keep quiet!"

The woman whimpered and nodded weakly as she looked down, tears falling from her eyes.

"My, my, such a noble young woman." The same voice from before said. "I guess it does run in the family,"

The man from behind the other two approached the girl; a black coat is draped on his shoulders, contrasting the white polo, pants and shoes. His dark green eyes gleamed through the dimly lit room as his long dark brown hair tied to a ponytail swayed slightly.

He held the woman's chin, making her flinch and force her to look at him.

A smile crossed his lips, as an evil glint in his eyes appeared. "Such a beautiful girl... You look so much like Ryuu..."

The woman whimpered once again as she thrashed around her restraints, closing her eyes so as not to look into the man's eyes.

"Don't struggle, sweetheart..." The man said, putting his other hand at the side of her face. "After we've broken you, your dear sister will be next... But of course, I won't be the one to stain my hands with blood, it'll be you, sweetie... Sonoda Yui..."

-/-

"Eli... I'm ba—" Umi stopped, spotting the blonde sprawled on the bed, her eyes closed as she hugged a pillow at her side. Umi chuckled softly; She's exhausted probably...Given what happened today...

Umi climbed onto the bed, careful not to wake the blonde as she proceeded to pull a blanket over them, however, she stopped midway. Her eyes were drawn to the back of the blonde, since she was just wearing a sleeveless top, her shoulders and a part of her back was exposed. But it wasn't the exposed skin that Umi was drawn to; it was the faint scars that were scattered on her back.

She reached out, lightly touching the most obvious scar on the blonde's right shoulder. It was faint; from a far you wouldn't even see it but its there. It stretched from the blonde's shoulder, going through her shoulder blade before disappearing through the blonde's shirt.

She continued tracing it, wondering where and when the blonde had gotten the scar. When her finger touched the skin on her shoulder blade, she felt an odd bump on her skin. She rubbed her finger gently over it before she realized that it was in a form of a letter, ES...? She accidentally placed a lot more pressure onto the spot and all of a sudden, Eli jolted as she released a small squeak, making her retract her hand immediately.

"U-Umi...?" Eli said, her voice a little hoarse as she rolled to her back.

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you up..."

"It's alright... My skin is sensitive there..." Eli stated as she sat up while rubbing her eyes.

"O-Oh... I'm sorry..." Umi said, a small blush settled on her cheeks. "W-Where did you get that scar, Eli?"

Eli stayed quiet for a second before she answered with a soft voice, "It was from the military academy before, they used to whip our backs or our arms if we aren't performing well enough, I...usually ended up being whipped when I was too exhausted... But you know, they don't allow slackers and all so I had to endure it..."

"Oh..." Umi muttered quietly. "I'm sorry..."

"Its okay, Umi." Eli gave a small smile. "After all, I wouldn't be this strong if I didn't go through that..."

Umi nodded before she asked, "How about the bumps on your skin...? It was in a form of letters... I think it was E and S...?"

"Oh. That..." Eli fell silent and looked away. "It's a tag."

"T-Tag?"

"ES-02AE. Experiment Subject 02 Ayase Eli. It's what they tagged me with when I agreed to use the special chip. I don't like it though..." Eli chuckled quietly, waving it off as if it wasn't a big deal. This made Umi surprised.

"Of course you don't like it! You shouldn't! It's not right to just tag someone as if they're just am item!" Umi exclaimed, her voice sounding angry and disgusted. "Why would anyone do that? That's preposterous!"

"Umi, calm down. The tag doesn't mean anything to me, I'm still Eli right? It's not like I changed or anything..."

"But it doesn't change the fact that—"

Before Umi could say anything, Eli enveloped her in a hug, catching her off guard, and making her stop her sentence. The blonde nestled her chin on the archer's shoulder.

"It's ugly, it's hideous, and it's not supposed to be there... I know. I've gone through these thoughts before, thinking that I'm nothing but an item, a weapon, anything that's not considered human. But you know..." Eli stopped as she pulled away from Umi, she gave a small smile before she continued, "I managed to overcome it by being with you and μ's. Believe it or not, you and the others have helped me in ways you couldn't possibly imagine. From the ways you've cared for me, treated my wounds, made sure I eat, and encouraged me with your words, I am here now because of you and the others."

"Eli..." Umi said, her expression filled with one of shock. She was speechless.

"That's why I don't care about some damn tag. It's nothing to me. After all, I'm still the cute and clever—"

"Elichika..." Umi finished, smiling at the blonde before she said playfully, "You're not as clever as you were before though."

"Hey! I am clever you know!" Eli pouted, puffing her cheeks out, she soon giggled along with Umi.

"Let's go to sleep then?" Umi said, holding out her hand.

"Okay~".

"I love you, Eli."

"I love you too, Umi."

-/-

AN: Gosh it's been so long, 2 months yes? Im so sorry, pls have this 7.5k+ chapter as an offering haha. Next chapter will probably be released late as well so I apologize for that in advance.

THESE TWO DORKS I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. Kiss count: 4. I just want them to cuddle up with each other all day and not care about anything. they're so cute. too bad there's a big challenge ahead of them. Eli's being hurt a lot physically but you know, Umi's there for her as well as the others. The next chap will probably include more fluff and 'hopefully' less angst... Now onto the review replies!

Mystletainn: Yesh these two are bakas that need each other for life. Hopefully this chapter did not disappoint, especially the kisses B)

zuruin: With all the drama is just the perfect reason for them to get together! Eli and Umi would always be there for each other and care about one another 3

PileMimo: Aww, thank you very much for your continued support!

mumusang: No don't die! There's still a lot of kisses they'll do. Anyways, thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed it!

sable-rover: Your prompt will soon be included here in this story since I planned it out already! Thank you very much!

Lastation's CPU: More EliUmi moments served! More on the way. As for your prompt, I'll probably start doing it uhhh after some time? I'm very busy so just keep an eye out for it! Thank you for reading!

That's almost it! One last thing is I need your opinion, just chose from either one of these: Alisa or Grandma Ayase?

There that's it, thank you for reading and I hope this chapter did not disappoint!