Author's note: This chapter was requested by Raxius, and takes place during "A Zoo Out There". Hope you enjoy it!

Mira paced across the fake palace furiously, her eyes narrowed in thought. I've got to find a way out of here! I am NOT going to stay here to be gawked at by these arrogant Chlorms!

"Hello, Bright-Eyes!" Mira spun around and saw Eon floating in front of her.

"What do you want?" she snapped.

Eon smiled. "Ah, that Tangean attitude - always so amusing! Keep it up for the show - the audience loves that sort of thing."

"Show?" Mira frowned. I don't like the sound of this.

"Yes," beamed Eon. "Every night we select our most talented lesser beings and have them perform. It's a great way to show off each lesser being's unique abilities. For instance, a display of your ghosting powers would be very interesting."

Mira clenched her fists. "If you think I'm going to perform for you, you've got another thing coming!"

Eon's smile vanished. "Careful," he warned. "You don't want to end up like the last lesser beings who refused to co-operate."

Mira was about to fling back an angry reply when she suddenly thought better of it and paused to consider the Chlorm's words. Maybe I should go along with them. I don't know what they'll do to me if I don't, and it could also provide an opportunity to escape. "Alright," she reluctantly agreed. But don't think for a second I'm giving in to you. I am going to escape, no matter what.

"Good!" Eon grinned. "The show starts soon, so you'd better hurry and get dressed."

"Dressed?" She blinked.

"Yes! I have your performing costume right here." He handed her a folded package.

"There's no way I'm wearing this!" Mira unfolded the outfit, revealing a luridly-coloured bathing suit.

Eon frowned. "You'll have to - it allows for greater mobility while performing."

She folded her arms. "The answer's still no."

Eon sighed. "Why must you be so unco-operative, even in such a small matter?" He shook his head sadly. "Unco-operative lesser beings will not be tolerated at our zoo." He looked at her sharply. "We have ways of making you co-operate. For instance... I could easily order your robot friend to be deactivated..."

Mira's eyes grew wide. "XR?" she gasped. "Are you saying you'll deactivate XR if I don't wear this stupid outfit?"

Eon shrugged. "Sometimes we have to take drastic measures to keep our lesser beings in check."

Mira glared at him. "Don't you dare threaten any of my teammates! If you hurt them in any way, I'll - "

"Sorry, Bright-Eyes, but the show starts soon and we don't have time for pathetic threats. Put on the suit and come to the show area. Now."

Mira gritted her teeth, but decided it would be wise not to argue. Boy, would I like to kick his head in, she thought. I have to think of a way out of here!