Opportunity

It blindsided us in the middle of the day while half our forces were at lunch. I, of course, was chained to my computer, working on a high profile case. Those who remained in the building were scattering like cockroaches as smoke, sirens, and sounds of explosions rocked our senses. The building shook as key structural supports were reduced to mere rubble.

I poked my head out to see what I could of the situation. Many were trampled in the panic, including one Agent Ts'ao. Another tremor caused debris to crush the unfortunate man, killing him almost instantly.

That small part of me longing for freedom suddenly screamed out that this was my chance. This was something I could not ignore for the sense of duty. No one noticed as I shifted through the chunks of building materials to switch my identification with Agent Ts'ao's. I felt some small remorse at denying his family closure at his death, so I offered a small prayer over the body in hopes of appeasing his soul.

Once free of the prison called Preventers, I slipped into the amassed crowds gawking to witness a catastrophe first hand. During the wars, we all had networks set up to aid us in our endeavors. A few anonymous phone calls and I had a new identity and an underground ticket to China.

News reports told me that Preventers was believed to be attacked by an unknown terrorist cell. That Commander Une swore that she would get to the bottom of this tragedy. Six agents were confirmed dead so far, including one Agent Chang. The film crew were fond of taking footage of the surrounding bystanders and I was sure I recognized a few Maguanacs, and the vague glimpse of a long chestnut braid. A pang hit my chest as I realized that opportunity had knocked in the form of Shinigami and his loyalty. I'm sure the rest of our small family had their hands in this mess. I am also positive that each one will have an airtight alibi to keep them from the suspect list.

For once, I'm glad I headed the old saying, 'It isn't enough to grasp an opportunity: you must do something more than just stand still and hold onto it."

As I pass each temple in my journeys, I always make sure I leave a tribute for my four brothers in thanks, and one to an unfortunate Agent by the name of Ts'ao. The five of them have opened the doors to a whole new life for me. I will be eternally thankful. Xie Xie.