First missions together, and strange sensations.

Enjoy ^^


Chase and Carmen were running on the rooftops of a small town in Spain. This time, the thief thought about calling him before going on a mission. The inspector came a soon as possible. They had to prevent an agent of you-know-who to steal a USB key containing one hell of a computer virus. The havoc it could create could make anyone shiver : no more stock exchange, no more computer functioning, no more wifi, not to mention all machines working with datas … so here they were, trying to catch up with the thief. However, that wasn't easy for Devineaux, still new to parkour. Plus he hasn't as much stamina as Carmen. So little by little she was distancing him. He was also running out of breath. Suddenly, they arrived before a space too important to just jump. The thief used a grapnel to continue.

" Damn ! How are …we going to …" breathed Chase.

" Hold onto me." ordered Sandiego, lifting her hand.

" Huh ? What for ?" he asked looking at her.

Sandiego didn't let him time to think. She grabbed him by the waist while launching her grapnel. That rang a bell to Devineaux.

" Oh non !"

Oh hell yes, deary. He just has time to grasp her before she rushed in the void. He a let cry escape, and landed oh so ungraciously.

" You okay ?" asked Carmen.

" Nnngh … don't wait for me, go and catch him, I'll be fine." he said.

Sandiego hesitated, he had to insist. So she resumed her pursuit. She used her glider to catch up more rapidly. There. Sandiego literally fell on her opponent. Meanwhile, Devineaux tried to pull himself together. He hasn't been running like this for a long time. No wonder she could escape every time. The man walked a bit. He tried to run but that was even harder. So he continued slowly, hoping to be there on time. On the way, Chase couldn't stop but thinking about the situation : he has been unable to follow Carmen. Meaning that should he have to capture her or the thief on his own … Devineaux shook his head. No, he wouldn't have been alone in the first place. But still, everytime he tried before Sandiego just outran him. Her grapnel or glider allowed her to easily escape. Not to mention her agility and fighting skill.

" This is frustrating."

Devineaux finally arrived on the roof where Carmen was dealing with the VILE agent. He began to descend in order to join and help. He landed on a balcony.

" Woooooh !"

Rising his head, he saw Sandiego falling. That one tended her hand to launch her grapnel. Fortunately she didn't need it : her partner grabbed her wrist.

" Te tiens ¹ !" he said.

The man helped her getting up.

" Did he defeated you ?" asked Chase, backing away.

" That's what he thought. But don't worry, I took the device." announced Carmen, showing the key.

" That's a relief then. But you know, it would be nice to send him to jail next time."

" Next time then. Thank you for having catching me."

" You're welcome. Say, never considered the idea of being a parkour teacher ?" made Devineaux.

" A what ?" replied Carmen.

" Parkour. Urban agility if you prefer. I have the feeling you'll dot it juuuust fine."

Carmen giggled.

" Fine. We have to leave."

" Oooooh not your flying elevator again !" moaned Chase.

" Got a better idea ? Think we should ask this house dwellers to let us descend through their home ?" retorted the Scarlet Lady.

" Weeeell, I am an Interpol agent, so actually I can ask."

" Okay, be my guest then."

Chase knocked at the window. After a while, a light appeared and someone went to see. Devineaux showed his plaque. He explained to an old man that they were pursuing a thief and had to land here. Finally, the man opened his window than his door.

" So ! How does it feel to go down a staircase for once ?" asked Devineaux, hands in his pockets.

" Slow." she smiled.

" Is that so. You should savour it, make some photos, leave a graffiti like Sandiego was here, take a selfie, stuff like that."

She found herself laughing again. They arrived at the door. But when opened it, they discovered three cars of police.

" Huh oh." made Carmen.

Seemed like the flying elevator wasn't an option anymore.

" It's okay everyone, Interpol here, check my plaque in my pocket." said Chase.

One of the policemen went to verify.

" And that one ? I heard of a famous thief cladded in red."

" Don't tell me you're not aware ? Check your informations, please."

He made a head sign to a colleague.

" It's ok, she's part of us !" announced a policeman five minutes later.

" I what ?" thought Sandiego.

The policemen let them go with apologies. To what Chase refused, they were just doing their work. The cars left.


" Hey Devineaux, what was this she's part of us stuff ?" asked Sandiego.

" It means that you're considered as a consultant. That was part of the deal I made with Interpol : all charges against you were cleared, and the info was transmitted to all police all over the world. In other words, if by any extreme luck they managed to catch you, you should be free within minutes or hours." explained. Devineaux.

" Oh, I had no idea you made such a deal. And what is in exchange ?"

" For now, preventing theft or retrieving stolen artefacts did do. But I suspect that Interpol won't be satisfied with just that in long term. Our job is to arrest criminals after all. So next time that would be nice to bring back a head or two."

" Well, I got to admit that if I truly want VILE defeated I'll have to send them to jail. But up until now it was just impossible given that I too was researched and that VILE was unknown." admitted Carmen.

" You're able to do that now. You have the possibility of calling reinforcement, orders were transmitted in that respect. Your war with that organisation took a new turn when you accepted to ally with me." precised Chase.

" Guess it really is a good thing in the end."

" You said it."

Carmen would never had dreamed that being poisoned by Dokuso would lead to that. Not only VILE was discovered by police, but it also gave her bigger means. There was also something she had to enlighten.

" By the way, what can you tell about that ACME thing ?"

" Hmm, only what I know. They are tracking VILE for twenty years, and they're as invisible as them. Seems like they got high technology just as this holographic pen you saw. They can also intervene in Interpol's hierarchy. As far as you're concerned, the chief knows you have a connection with VILE, and I'm sure she would love to know more about it." replied Devineaux.

" So that's probably why she's chasing me." guessed Sandiego.

" Surely."

They arrived near their car.

" It's morning. Want me to offer you breakfast ?" proposed Devineaux.

" With pleasure."

He drove to find a bakery.

" There. I wonder if those croissants are as good as the one we tasted in Le Grau du Roi." he announced, tending her a craft bag.

" Oh I remember, those were delicious. Although it smells really good in here."

Carmen picked up a croissant, Chase a chocolate bread.

" Mumph." he said.

" What ?"

" Not bad, but not even close too."

" You seem to be quite the foodie, mister Devineaux." she smiled.

" That I am, I confess."

The next day, Devineaux went to find Carmen in her hotel room.

" I got orders this morning. Thinking heads of Interpol wants you to check on this case." he announced, giving her a file.

" Hmm okay, but are you superiors aware that I act only when VILE is involved ?"

" Of course, but we're not totally blind or deaf. We have a few cases where we suspect people to be part of a massive organization. In one word, they want to insure if that one is related to VILE or not. If not, they'll give the affair to someone else." exposed Chase.

Carmen nodded, then announced she'll check it. Devineaux thanked her then left. Carmen switched on her computer to contact Player.

" Hello Carmen ! So, how is your journey in Spain going ?" greeted the teen.

" Not bad. Listen, I've got something from Devineaux, I'd like you to tell me if this VILE handiwork."

She showed him the file. Player strum on his keyboard.

" Looks like Devineaux was right Carmen. I found those jewels on a file in the hard disk. They're stolen and VILE will buy them during an auction and a ball occurring this week." announced Player.

" Alright, then I suppose I'll attend this ball as well." deduced Sandiego.

She read the file.

" Apparently the current owner, is suspected to buy all his treasures on black market. Up until now, he managed to keep the police at bay with bribes and his influence." she said.

" Which makes me think, how is your collaboration with Interpol going ?" wanted to know Player.

" Pretty good I must say. I just learned that I wasn't considered as an international thief anymore."

" Really ? That's a good new then. It seems that having an Interpol agent in our team is an asset, in the end." granted Player.

" Yep, plus I got to admit that Devineaux is more easy-going that I thought he'd be."

" Okay. Does that mean you'll attend the ball with him?"

" Good question. I'll already go tell him I accept the case."

Carmen stood up, and went of her room to knock on Chase's door. He opened.

" Oh, come in."

" I checked your file, VILE is really at work here." she announced.

" Fine. I can obtain invitations for the party, if you allow me to join." he said, collecting his documents.

" I have to inform my team before I can take any decisions." warned Carmen.

" Suits yourself."

So she went found her other teammates, Zack and Ivy first.

" Sorry Carmen, but that's not my cup of tea at all. I hate those kinds of events." replied Zack.

" No offense, but I don't see you going with Shadowsan. The best option is indeed Devineaux." added Ivy.

" You're not wrong, but I had to ask you first. I'll still ask Shadowsan about this."

Ivy just shrugged. Carmen found her former teacher and tell him the whole thing.

" Are you nuts ? Me on a ball, seriously. Plus, Ivy is right you already have someone. Or are you still not trusting that man ?" responded the Japanese.

" It's not that, I trust him more than before. But I'm doing more and more missions with him and I don't want you all to feel excluded." explained Carmen

" No way. We're still by your side in missions isn't it ?"

" Yeah. Right, let's prepare for this then."


Three days later, they were ready for that new mission. Chase rented a tuxedo and was waiting for Carmen, while Ivy was checking if the microphone hidden in his ear was functioning.

" Oh, there you are Carmen." smiled Ivy.

" WHOAH." thought Devineaux, discovering her.

Last time he saw her with that red dress it was in the middle of a fog. Not like that, with her in full light. His eyes strolled on her naked, delicate shoulders. Carmen has tied her long hair in a bun, as often. So why did it seem different now ? How come he didn't notice how gorgeous she was before ? Devineaux became completely oblivious of the rest. Carmen checked that Player was connected, then talked to the man.

" Devineaux ?"

" Quoi ² ?" said Chase, taken aback.

" I said shall we go ?"

" Oh right, sorry."

Carmen narrowed her eyes, then followed him. They arrived at the ball with a limousine Interpol provided. Devineaux gave the invitations, Carmen at his arm.

" So how should we proceed ?" asked Chase.

" Basically, localizing the enemy then find a way to steal those jewels."

" There's a lot of guards. No way to get to the first floor to search." noticed Devineaux.

" I already see our host, at three o'clock. We'll just have to keep an eye on him." made Carmen.

She took a glass of champagne, he did the same. For a while, they kept looking around them, studying the place. The owner of the mansion was greeting everyone. Then all guests headed to the auction room. Our duo had to witness the whole thing. Suddenly, Chase felt a nudge.

" You're falling asleep." reproached Sandiego.

" I'm sorry, but this is so boring."

" Focus, we're on a mission." she reminded.

Chase felt a bit ashamed. She was right, how could he allow himself to let his guard down that way ? Carmen's attention was lured by a first jewel. Her partner fully awake this time. They both stared at the one buying it.

" One down, five to go." said Carmen.

Others thing were presented, sold, and finally it was over. Carmen went backstage to connect Player to a computer.

" Here we are." resumed Carmen.

They all went back in the ball room. The Red drone sent by Player informed them that the jewels buyers had them on them. The ball began : music resonated and couples invaded the dancefloor. Chase turned to Carmen.

" Would you allow me that dance, senorita ?" he said.

" Why not."

He put a hand on her waist then off they went. Carmen rounded her eyes : he was good at this. His natural perfume invaded her.

" Gah ! Why does that man smells so good ? It's almost distracting me."

Carmen looked away to regain her composure. Chase, who was also paying attention to other dancers, had to bring her closer to avoid someone's move. Sandiego hit him softly.

" Whoah, does he think he dancing French cancan or something ?" made Chase.

" It's warm."

Carmen also felt the warmth of his hand on her hip, like a burn. She had a feeling she mustn't look at him in this moment. Devineaux leaned his eyes on her. It felt weird to have her like this, against him.

" We're getting close." he said.

" How can we get even closer ?" replied Sandiego looking at him.

" What are you talking about ? I was speaking about a buyer."

" Oh. Crap."

But as she looked where he said too, the music stopped.

" You sure you okay ?" asked Chase.

" Y-yes, I'm fine. Except that I am way too close to you, it's disturbing and I don't know why."

Usually a deep breath would calm her down. Here, that was not a good idea. She began by getting a bit back away. She raised her eyes to him. Chase was puzzled. Sandiego seemed curiously distracted.

" Okay, let's do this." she decided.

Another music arose, that time for youngers dancers.

" Oh my ! That song suit my mood so well." smiled Devineaux.

" Huh ? And why is that ?" asked Carmen.

" Because tu me tienes loco, loco contigo !" he sang.

She rolled her eyes with a smile. He dragged her along. Getting close to a first target, she stole a first jewel. Chase made her turned then got her back to him. His suave and warm voice was resonating to her ears.

" Stop singing it's …"

Making you shiver ? She managed she didn't know how to get another jewel. The worst was she had to hide them in Chase's jacket. Meaning getting close no matter what, and feeling his warmth. She could feel some muscles under the clothes. His hand was sliding on her hip, then to hollow of her kidneys, gently and firmly. He guided her perfectly well. However Carmen had to focus harder than usual. She was tempted to just dance and nothing else. He could almost make her forget the mission. Caliente, muy caliente caliente caliente … she almost blushed. Finally this music torture stopped. But … she was against him, wondering what the hell just happened. What was wrong with her.

" So did you get them ?" asked Chase.

" Keep away from me." she whispered, leaning her head.

" What ?"

She bit her lips realizing what she said.

" No, I mean yes I have them. Let's go."

She quickly turned heels and headed to the exit.

" Huh Sandiego ?" called Chase, catching up.

" What ?"

" Did I do something wrong ?" he wondered.

" No, not at all. But we mustn't stay any longer. They certainly won't be long to notice the theft."

Carmen called for her car. It arrived quickly. She went inside a bit preoccupied. Chase exited their plunder.

" I didn't feel anything at all. You're really impressive." he said.

Carmen untied her hair, shaking her head. Devineaux stared at her, mouth ajar. His eyes strolled on her an instant.

" Thank you." she simply said.


During the return, none spoke nor even looked at the other. Carmen was looking through the window, wondering while she has been so distracted. She lifted a hand and put her chin on it.

" Sniff ?"

Carmen smelled her hands. They were full of Devineaux's odour. She shook a bit her head and instead leaned her forehead on the window. On his side, Chase glanced from time to time to her. It was like discovering someone new. His eyes then fell on the jewels. Once again, he did nothing special. Carmen could've done this alone. Just like a few days ago. And before… He leaned, his elbows on his knees, his hands crossed before his mouth. The truth was hard to swallow. That sure darkened his mood. They stopped to give what they took to the police. With the proof that a notable was concealing stolen objects, they would be able to search in the mansion and arrest someone. Chase looked at the stars.

" Devineaux ?" called Carmen.

He looked pissed. He joined the young woman and went back inside the limousine. That one looked at him intrigued. Ten minutes later they were back.

" Devineaux, is something wrong you don't seem in a good mood." asked Carmen.

" I'm fine !" he replied a bit aggressive.

Chase went straight to his room. Carmen put her fists on her hips. What the heck ?

" What's wrong with him ?" asked Zack.

" Did you step on his foot during the ball ?" added Ivy.

" Not at all, he was fine until we gave back the jewels." replied Carmen, raising hands.

" I just gave the documents Player found to the police. They should have more than enough proofs." informed Shadowsan.

" Perfect." sighed Carmen.

" You look upset." he noticed.

" More like tired. I'll go to sleep. Good night guys."

" Good night Carmen."

On her bed, Carmen thought about what she felt during the dance. She never felt anything like that, this confusion, those sensations. She still has his scent on her hands …

Next morning she reunited with her team. Devineaux was missing. Weird, the previous days he was there with them. The departure would occur this afternoon, he better not be late. Later in the morning, the Red Team learned about a notable's arrest. The one whom they stole. Good, one less provider for VILE. Carmen apperceived Chase passing.

" Hey ! Where have you been ?" she asked.

" None of your business."

" Whoah there. What's the matter ?"

" Nothing I said." he responded between his teeth.

Devineaux left the hotel. Carmen looked at her friends, then shrugged.

" Are you nothing happened between you two ?" questioned Shadowsan.

" Yes. I fail to see where and how did I upset him."

" You'll have to solve this."

Carmen sighed. But her partner was right. So Carmen took her red hooded sweat and got outside. She found Devineaux sat on a bench, his head back. He saw her above him. They stared at each other for an instant.

" I think we need to talk." began Carmen.

Chase closed his eyes and sighed.

" Alright."

He straightened while she sat next to him.

" So. What the hell is wrong with you ? If you have a problem we can help. We're partners, all of us." she reminded.

" It's just … I could've never captured you." threw Chase.

Seeing her suspicious expression, he added with a wave :

" Don't worry, I didn't change my mind about this. I get better results with you as an ally rather than an enemy."

" Oookaaaay. And then ?"

" Do you remember what I told you when I rescued you ? What I had to do to be back on scene?"

Carmen searched in her memory.

" You trained."

" Exactly. Back then I did all this to be at your level. But today … I realized you're still leagues away from me. I couldn't handle an opponent when needed to, couldn't follow you in pursuit and yesterday, you alone handled the affair. I … I was useless. All that training served for nothing in the end. You don't need me in your team." he revealed.

So that was it.

" Devineaux listen. I have years of training. That's not something you can easily catch up to, let alone in a few weeks. And you know, apart from me and Shadowsan not everyone is able to fight. You did hold on against Tigress, you managed to stay alive and knowing her weapons, quite intact which is not easy, believe me. That's what your training allowed you to do. And you're useful : it's thanks to you that I'm not a criminal anymore. You provide me with means I could never hope for. Today I can see the end of VILE more clearly." told Carmen.

" Had you allied with ACME it would be the same." he objected.

" But I chose to team up with you. You saved my life, not the ACME. If you wish to improve so badly, then Shadowsan can train you. How's that ?"

" You really think he would accept ?"

" Can't hurt to ask. Come on, we'll ask straight away." she said getting up.

" Alright, let's try this. Oh, Sandiego."

" Hm ?"

" Sorry for the mood. I was mad against myself." he apologized.

" Apologies accepted."

" Thanks, senorita."

They went back together. There, Carmen talked to Shadowsan about her idea.

" Hmmmm, why not. Can't hurt to have one more fighter among us. But young man, I am the strict type, I won't allow laziness nor complains. You'll have to follow my instructions from A to Z, even if it seems strange. Think you can do that ?" asked Shadowsan.

" I think so, yes." replied Chase.

" In that case, we'll begin as soon as we return." decided the Japanese.

Chase nodded.


Translation

Te tiens = got you

Quoi = what