Writing up his findings had been rather easy, however, the tape Noll made was critical. It contained all the proof needed to support his thesis. There was obviously no other documentation. Without unveiling the video publicly, Noll's work was theoretical.

Referencing evidence that had yet to be seen by the academic community would be challenging as well… But Noll had the truth. His notes, paired with the tape, held the scientific backing to prove that abnormalities in the brain were the root cause of psychic abilities.

Noll sighed, annoyed by the fact he would have to wait such a long time before publishing his findings. If he dared to publish them so soon he would be arrested… Really, if any of it was published prior to his own death he was guaranteed a spot in prison.

Closing his journal and removing his glasses, Noll called out, "Mai, tea-"

He froze for a moment before shaking his head. Old habits were certainly difficult to shake…

After standing up and clearing off his desk, Noll walked to the small kitchen. As he passed by an unoccupied desk he frowned. He hadn't put any of Mai's possessions away. Everything from fruit scented erasers to textbooks cluttered its surface. A framed photograph was also among her things.

Noll couldn't help but smile fondly at the photo. Mai had convinced a passerby on one of their outings to take a picture of them sharing tea at a small shop. Noll took the picture from Mai's desk. After putting a kettle on the stove he studied it, reminiscing over their time together.

He was keeping it, the photograph. Noll determined it would do no harm. After all, Mai had been special to him. He hadn't been lying when he confessed his feelings for her. But, alas, his work took priority over his own immediate desires.

Returning to his office with the picture and a fresh cup of tea, Noll glanced at the clock. He was expecting a client within the hour. A member of Tokyo's Special Investigation team had claimed of odd happenings at his cousin's residence. The details had been interesting to Noll. Truly, the only negative about accepting the request would be working on his own.

He would find a new team in time…

Setting the picture at the corner of his desk, Noll sat. He raised the teacup to his lips and took a sip. Bitter…

Noll still had a long way to go before perfecting the art of brewing good tea.