'Okay, this is getting ridiculous.'
Morning was supposed to be serene. That was the order of the universe. At the crack of dawn, peace and tranquility should follow and gently stir folks from a sound slumber. Even Splatsville, the City of Chaos, agreed on that. Chaos needed time to wake up and get its bearings straight. Order should only be involved for a short period. That time was now.
However, leave it to Splatlandian genius to upset that order and usher in more chaos to start the morning.
Syrus hated the notion. He tackled the morning with a blank stare. He had never appeared more detached about life in his existence. The new Agent 3 of the NSS, affectionately dubbed "Neo" by his fellow agents, was fighting the insatiable temptation to go inside his apartment, grab his sister's Hydra Splatling, and lay waste to the loud and disrupted crowd that gathered around the complex. His apartment in particular had been a hotspot for news media and curious souls wanting answers as to his relationship with the yellow-haired, spry idol of Deep Cut, Frye.
'Is no place sacred? Will my home become a war zone as well? No, I refuse to allow it.'
He had no one else to blame but himself.
'I should've picked better words. I really should've worked on my phrasing.'
In no time, Syrus became the talk of the town. Immediately after Frye challenged him to a rematch, the news spread around the city like wildfire.
How did a random Octoling get the attention of Frye from Deep Cut? What was so good about him that the dancing gangster personally challenged him to a match? A rematch for that fact?
Was there something between them? They were too friendly with one another, some of the Grizzco workers noted in several interviews. It was almost as if they were flirting with each other.
Was Syrus trying to steal the idol away from the enigmatic dancer, Bolero?
What did he have to say about someone trying to steal his Amada?
The people wanted to know these answers!
As for Syrus, he already disliked the hunt for the dancer, but because of his interactions with Frye, the attacks on him felt more personal. Some of the Splatlandians possessed a grudge against the ex-soldier.
Their whispers told him everything.
How dare he ruin the budding romance between Frye and Bolero?
The glares he received from the fan base were menacing, but like the professional that he was, Syrus was unhindered by the stares. He continued to go about his routine like nothing happened, honing his skills for the upcoming rematch; thus, bringing him back to the present.
Several reporters shoved each other out of the way for a few words from the Tri-Stinger main, and a growing crowd of Splatlandians was interested in what he had to say. Others were stuck making goo-goo eyes at Ken the Smallfry. The small Salmonid was perched in Syrus' hand and whining about his empty stomach. The effects of hunger were already taking place. Every Inkling, Octoling, Jellyfish, and Crustacean looked more and more delicious as each second ticked without food.
He bounced in his caretaker's hand and let out a hungry whine.
Syrus had enough of the commotion. 'Okay, time to put a stop to this.'
He tapped on Ken's belly twice with his finger and stretched his hand out.
Receiving the order, the Salmonid took in a deep breath, and the next moment, a terrifying and ear-shattering screech erupted from his mouth.
The masses cowered and shielded their ears. Phones and camera equipment fell to the floor, and the windows shook. Tenants emerged from their homes to investigate the disturbances, only to see Syrus and his cute pet torturing the people.
Syrus pet Ken on the head for a job well done.
"Do I have your attention?" he questioned aloud. "For Cod's sake, it's too early in the morning for this. People are still asleep, and I am good friends with the landlord of this complex. If this behavior ruins my credibility, I will feed you to my pet Smallfry."
Ken was salivating at the idea.
One of the Jellyfish reporters pushed through the crowd and extended a limb to get the Octoling's interview.
"We at the Smack Station are simply curious-"
"I know people are wondering what's going between me and Frye," Syrus interrupted. "I'll comply and tell you some things, but after that, get away from my apartment. Don't bother me again, or you'll be Ken's breakfast. Do we understand one another?"
Ken growled, wanting to sink his teeth into the delicious morsels keeping him away from his meal. A male Inkling with a giant camera and red spiky hair looked especially crunchy.
Never, under any circumstances, get in between a Salmonid and their food.
The paparazzi understood and readied their equipment to record the interview.
"Okay, one," Syrus raised a finger, "I've only spoken to Frye recently and had the honor of fighting her in the same instance. That is the first and only time we interacted with each other. However, I was not prepared to see her yesterday. She surprised me with the rematch. However, I am eager to face off against her again. She is a great adversary and her skills on the battlefield are respectable. She is not someone to be underestimated. That being said, I have nothing but respect for her, and the fact she wanted a rematch means she respects my skills as well."
He held up a second finger. "Two, we are acquaintances as I just explained. I know I said I wanted to use the opportunity to make a move, but let me reiterate. While that is partially true, honestly, I just want to know her better, and I feel the best way to do so is through battle."
Some nodded, agreeing with the statement.
"I will admit; I do find her very pretty. I'm always honest. Frye is beautiful."
'She's adorable.'
Then, he held up a third finger. "Now, I need everyone to listen carefully to this. Third, I understand the fan base is very supportive of her relationship with Bolero, but I could care less about what they think."
'I seriously need to quit while I'm ahead.'
"Let me be clear," Syrus narrowed his eyes at the crowd, "in no way am I saying I oppose Frye and Bolero's relationship. They are allowed to like whomever they want. But, I do want to point out one major flaw in everyone's assessment. Frye never said she loved Bolero back. As far as we all know, Bolero poured his heart out, but Frye didn't reciprocate. Therefore, she rejected him. Therefore, she is still single. Therefore, she can still pick someone else. I'm sorry to the shippers, but your boat is still docked at the pier."
The reporters vividly wrote down all the notes they could muster and were about to hound the secret agent for more details… until Syrus tapped Ken's belly twice, and the Smallfry's monstrous screech shattered their eardrums again.
Syrus waited for everyone to calm down. He glared at the people with a look that could intimidate a Boss Salmonid. "I kept my word. Now, keep yours and get lost."
The masses hurriedly obeyed and vacated the premises in record time. No one wanted to incur the wrath of a starving Smallfry.
Syrus sighed and turned to his neighbors, some of whom were worried about the Octoling's future.
"I apologize, everyone," he bowed. "I'm hoping that keeps them away for the time being. If it gets out of hand again, just let me know. I'll take care of it."
He and Ken went inside their abode, but the Octoling's troubles didn't stop with the press.
"Another interview?"
Maya, his little sister, was waiting for him. She sat in the recliner with her arms crossed and a leg folded over her lap. She resembled a parent catching their child in the midst of sneaking inside.
"Another waste of my time," he replied and went to the kitchen to prepare Ken's breakfast. "It was even worse yesterday. Is no place sacred anymore?"
Maya followed, declaring, "That's what you get for being a liar!"
Syrus rolled his eyes. Even his baby sister continued to pester him about the match.
"I'm not sure what you're talking about," Syrus countered. "I am many things. A liar isn't one of them."
"Okay, how about homewrecker?" Maya thrust her clenched fists on her dainty hips.
Syrus raised a brow. "Where did you learn that term?"
"Internet," the younger sister replied unhesitatingly.
Syrus frowned. "Don't make me put parental controls on all your devices. Stay away from websites you have no business using."
"Everyone is saying it."
"That doesn't mean you should follow in their footsteps. You're better than that, and for me to be called such, Frye would have to be married. Is she married, Maya?"
Maya slammed her hands on the table.
"I know you're Bolero!"
The brother felt a headache rising.
"We are not having this conversation again. What more do you want? I already proved I wasn't. Luke proved I wasn't, and Uncle Tobias can prove I'm not him."
Maya wasn't swayed though, her hair changing colors rapidly from red to yellow and then to purple.
"Uh-huh, then why are you just now interested in Frye? Is that what you've been up to lately? Getting cozy with Deep Cut?"
Syrus didn't want to go into detail. He was struggling to come up with a good way to keep his secret agent status a mystery.
"You know I've always been her fan. I just never had the chance to talk to Frye until a few days ago. Now that I have, I want to know more about her. Is that so wrong?"
"It's suspicious."
"In what way?"
Maya slammed her hands on the table again.
"Stop that," Syrus stated, to which Maya pouted.
"Syrus, you never said you liked someone," she replied. "Then, all of a sudden, Bolero makes his claim on Frye, and you're wanting her company now. What's up with that?"
"You're thinking too much into it," Syrus told her, finishing preparations, and placing Ken's food on the table. The Smallfry happily devoured his meal while the siblings continued their exchange.
"I'm not going to deny my admiration for Frye. She's phenomenal. I admire her strength, skills, and strategy inside the field. I also admire her willingness to take on any opponent, no matter the odds. Such strength and courage need to be respected. And that's why I want to get to know her better. Aren't you happy I'm trying to make new friends?"
Maya studied his facial expression and his eyes. There was no change. After a moment, she folded her arms and plopped down in the dining chair.
"You're up to something. My suction cups say so."
"Maya," Syrus laughed lightheartedly and took a seat at the table, "I'm always doing something."
"True," the little Inkling girl nodded. "But this is the first time I've seen you show interest in a girl, and it's right after Bolero showed up. This can't be a coincidence."
"Like I said, you're overthinking it. I guess I impressed Frye enough that she wanted to see more of my skills."
Maya wasn't convinced though. She knew her brother was hiding something. He expertly evaded the Bolero accusation, but Maya continued to believe her brother was the mysterious dancer hiding in plain sight.
"Hmm, we'll see, bro. Your secret will come out."
Syrus smirked. "Only if there is a secret to be shared, sis."
Xxx With Deep Cut xxX
"This is all your fault, Shiv," Frye stated.
A soft gasp left the accused's ruby-red lips.
"Me? How can you say that after all I've done for you? Who helped you with your boy troubles? Who suggested you wear the rose?" Shiver narrowed her eyes. "Who helped you admit to having a crush?"
Frye tried not to growl, adjusting the red rose she styled in her hair. She hated it when Shiver was right.
"Ay? (You finally admitted it?)" Big Man clapped his fins. "Ay, ay ay! (I'm so happy!)"
Frye chose not to respond and buried herself in social media. The squits on her Blooper feed became a cesspool of fan art of her and Bolero. She was already used to getting fan art. Some drew her with… questionable proportions, but the majority of it was very good. The ones of her and Bolero simply depicted them in various, safe, and fiery poses. The artists captured the intensity exerted in their duet. However, currently, there were squits about the Octarian ex-soldier and his bold attempt at stealing Frye away from Bolero.
"All I did was throw down the gauntlet," she sighed. "Why is everyone sayin' I'm a prize for two champions?"
"Ay, ay. Ay ay ay. (Amidst the populace, another soul found the courage to oppose the fire cod. Now, the two are locked in combat to prove who is more worthy.)"
Frye rolled her eyes. "I am no one's prize to fight over."
"Don't dismiss it just yet," Shiver said with a sly smirk. "Having boys vie for your attention is quite nice. Waifu Wars are always fun to read."
"Shiv, you're my homie, and I love ya, but we all know Marina is the baddest cephalopod."
"Yes, yes," she fanned herself, "don't remind me. I'm trying to convince Auntie Olivia to take up modeling. I bet she can rival Marina, but we'll talk about that later. My point is; it's your fault for not considering the consequences of your actions. What did you think was going to happen?"
"Not this. I bet Syrus is going through the wringer right now."
"Another thing you didn't account for."
Frye was losing her patience.
"If you don't have somethin' encouraging to say, don't say it."
Shiver continued to smirk.
"This is the first time you've been so interested in a boy. I will not squander this opportunity," she jabbed her fan in Frye's direction. "Now, tell us about your secret rendezvous with your darling Bolero, and don't try to hide it. You told me you asked him to meet up with you."
"And I'm starting to regret that decision."
Frye was about to answer, but the images from last night kept her silent. She didn't need to say much by the way her face turned an iridescent yellow. She cursed herself under her breath for getting flustered by trivial stuff.
"I told him the truth."
Xxx Last Night xxX
When the dancing gangster failed to get into the groove, she knew something was wrong. She never went a day without dancing. It was day two, and the fire that burned inside her was only an ember of its former glory. Her multiple hearts weren't in it. Her mind was focused on something else to worry about dancing. What was the point if her hearts weren't in it?
The ebony idol of Deep Cut waited patiently for her rival, but before the events arrived, she was trapped in the heat of battle. Her mind was surrounded by the pitter-patter of her three hearts. Both sides couldn't agree on the matter at hand, and in their battle, Frye's body temperature rose. The Splatlands' heat was nothing compared to the heat bubbling inside her chest. Instead of fighting it though, Frye embraced it. She didn't hide from it, more evident by the red rose tucked neatly in her yellow hair.
"Yeesh, don't these guys have better things going on?"
She passed the time by scrolling through Blooper. Aside from fashion trends and the occasional food recipe, there were many, many, many comments about Frye's challenge to Syrus. It was enough to make her squirm in her urchin sports top.
"I hope he ain't getting jumped."
She heard light footsteps land on the building and put her phone away.
'Here we go, Frye. It's showtime.'
She took a few deep breaths.
"You got here fast. I know I told you to come back, but are you that excited to see me?" she teased, spinning on her heel to face the mysterious Bolero. She fanned the flame even harder with a feminine smirk. Her three hearts raced, and she dammed herself for letting it get this bad.
Bolero drew closer. "The look on your face said it was critical," he told her. "I've heard the whispers. Is this about that Syrus Octoling?"
Frye laughed lightly. Her rival had no idea.
"He's part of it, but nothing you need to worry your fancy feet 'bout. Whatever stupid rumor you heard is wrong. I lost against him and wanted a rematch. He's the one who kneed me in the face."
Bolero made note of that.
"I'm warning you," Frye glared at her rival, "when we throw down, you had better keep your fancy feet out of the ring. If you so much as set foot in the arena, I will never forgive you. Do I make myself clear?"
Bolero nodded.
"Good, the same goes for your fans."
"You mean our fans."
"Whatever, just don't interfere. I don't need backup. The rumors aren't true. He's just someone who impressed me with his fighting skills. That's it. I only have respect for the octopus."
Her rival's posture was a little stiff. Frye pondered what was going through his mind.
"I'll watch from the sidelines," Bolero broke the silence.
"That's what I wanna hear. We have an understanding."
"Is he a good dancer?" Bolero asked.
Frye shrugged. "Dunno. If he can move as well as he fights, we're in trouble."
The two shared a quick laugh.
"Okay, I'm good, thanks," Frye took a deep breath and steeled herself. "The main reason I said to come back so we can talk… 'bout us," but she had grown quiet. Suddenly, she couldn't find the words to speak. Shiver helped her gather her thoughts, but her mind was blank.
Bolero noticed and reached over, but Frye grabbed his hand and squeezed it tightly.
"You don't know how hard this is," she shook her head.
Her mind told her to stay the course.
'Do not leave anything unsaid.' It stated.
Bolero squeezed her hand back and waited patiently for his Amada to get her thoughts in order.
"A'ight, look. I'mma be real with you. I respect your honesty," she smiled softly. "You have the freshest moves I've ever seen, and I love every duet we perform. I don't know what you felt when we danced during Splatfest, but I can see it affected you more than it did me. A lot more."
"Amada… I—"
"Do you mean it?" She cut him off. "Do you mean every single word?"
The question hung in the air.
"From the bottom of my three hearts," he finally nodded.
Frye laughed. "Yeah, I don't know why I expected anything different."
She calmed down, continuing with, "It's not that I don't believe you, but it ain't that simple. I'm impatient sometimes, but even I know this sort of thing takes time."
"You're right," Bolero replied, "but, don't you feel something too?"
Her three hearts raced.
"I do," she said barely above a whisper.
"Then, why are you hesitant?"
For a moment, she was surprised by how straightforward the question was.
"Because I don't know what I want," she admitted. "All I know is… I like being around you. I like dancing with you. I…," she hesitated, "I do like you. More than I should. But it's complicated."
She looked away from Bolero's stare. She didn't expect him to say anything. His body language was unreadable.
Bolero sympathized with her dilemma. "It doesn't have to be hard," he said, giving Frye's hand a brush with his thumb. "It's only as difficult as we make it."
"That's what I'm afraid of."
The enigmatic dancer paused, an unforeseeable pensive look on his face.
"You and fear don't belong together in the same sentence… but I understand."
"You sure 'bout that?" she questioned back, eyeing him through peripherals. "You're pretty calm 'bout it."
"One step at a time," he reminded her of their last encounter. Bolero reached over and caressed her cheek with the back of his fingers. His touch sent shivers down her spine. "I'm glad you don't hate me."
He enveloped the struggling girl in a warm and sudden embrace, bringing her in a little bit closer. Both arms snaked around her body and held her tight, the rhythm of their heartbeats thumping in tandem.
Frye was taken aback, perplexed as to what she should do. Should she hug him back? Push him away? Frye's mind was scrambling, but the warmth of Bolero's heat seeped into her system. Her body relaxed, and her worries dissipated. She could feel Bolero's breath touch her neck, his fingers gliding across her tentacles, tickling them. She returned the hug and stayed in Bolero's arms.
They fit each other perfectly.
His embrace spoke more than words ever could.
However, she couldn't enjoy the moment for long. She hated to, but Frye pulled away, and it pained her to do so.
"I can't hate the guy who's sweet on me," she reassured her crush, missing the fire that engulfed her at that moment. "I just need time to figure things out. I have too much going on right now."
"That's okay," Bolero said. "Take as much time as you need. I can wait."
Frye was relieved to hear that. Then, an idea popped into her head.
"You said you're working on something, right?" she inquired.
The enigmatic Octoling confirmed. "I am. A special surprise I know you'll enjoy."
"When it's time, I'll give you my answer. That cool with you?"
'That couldn't be any more perfect, Amada.'
"Absolutely," he lifted Frye's chin with his index finger and fanned the embers to reignite the inferno in Frye's soul by planting a gentle kiss on her massive forehead.
The touch of Bolero's lips sent a powerful current tingling down Frye's body. The electricity spreading through her nervous system made her feel alive, and at any moment, one of her hearts felt like leaping out of her chest.
"I'll be rooting for you," Bolero whispered.
With her luck, it felt like all of Splatsville was aware of their rooftop confrontation. The city and its people had this way of keeping tabs on the idol and knowing just when to pop up. She half expected some roaring applause, but this time was different. It was just her and Bolero, the former's cheeks heated by the thought of what the masses would have said had they seen them.
'Focus!' Frye chastised herself.
"I won't lose twice," she stated.
Bolero nodded. "Wear my rose with pride," he scratched under her chin, and leaped off the rooftop, leaving Frye standing mystified by her actions. She touched her forehead and let the heat envelop her face once more.
Xxx Present xxX
Steam rose from Frye's head as she finished recounting her story.
"Ay, ay, ay! (Way to go, Frye! I'm so proud!)" Big Man commented with a huge grin.
"How scandalous, " Shiver fanned her burning face. "We have to get this to the tv department. Desert Rose just reached its climax."
"I am not doing that," Frye hissed. "Got me worked up."
She calmed herself just in to do the Splatcast. The trio went through their usual greeting, and then Frye had the camera focus on her as she made another announcement.
"Guys, I don't know how you work so fast, but I'm squashing this rumor. I've seen the squits. It hasn't been a day yet. Why is everyone saying there's some love triangle between me, Bolero, and Syrus? I don't even know Syrus. I challenged him to a rematch because I hate losing. That's all."
"It's strictly competitive, everyone," Shiver added her two cents. "Syrus just impressed us more than we expected. Big Man and I stand Frye and Bolero in this studio."
"Ay ay! (That's right, we got her back!)"
Her co-star fixed her friends with a hard stare.
"Did you have to mention that last part?"
Shiver smiled. "Just telling everyone where we stand. Don't leave them hanging. Isn't there something you need to get off your chest as well?"
"No."
The quick response took Shiver by surprise.
"Positive?"
"One hundred percent."
'Ain't no way I'm tellin' these savages what happened!'
Xxx Bolero xxX
News of the upcoming fight reached the NSS.
"You're quite the troublemaker, Agent 3," Agent 2 teased. "Things look rough for you at home."
Agent 3 took it all in stride.
"Troublemaker? No. A glutton for punishment? Maybe. I knew what I was getting myself into. All I can do now is hope for the best."
"That's right, Neo. Never give up hope," Agent 1 slapped him on the back. "Keep fighting and let everyone know you are Frye's real soulmate."
"Dude is fighting for his life," Agent 7 commented. "They want my boy dead. Luke and I are scared to leave him alone."
"Let them stew in their hate," the love queen of the team declared. "They're just jealous they don't have Neo's confidence and charisma."
"I don't know about charisma, Agent 1," 3 dusted off his sleeves.
"You're a poet, dancer, and a great fighter. I'm surprised you're not a singer."
She had a certain glint in her eye that Syrus immediately recognized.
"I can't sing," he told her.
"Not with that attitude."
"Your level of thinking does scare me sometimes," Agent 2 commented. "How in-depth is your little project?"
Syrus didn't skip a beat.
"I'll spare you all the details and just say that preparations are nearly complete. I'm waiting for third parties to contact me, but if things continue this way, I should have it all ready by the designated time. You girls are more than welcome to participate if you like. We'll show you how we party down here in Splatsville."
Agent 3 put on a brand new pair of shades and secured his Tri-Stringer to his back.
Thanks to the girls' combined efforts, Agent 3 and Agent 7 had their new hero suits ready for combat.
Neo tugged on his black, fingerless gloves and pressed the metal knuckles together. He donned a lightweight, black hooded, long-sleeved tailcoat that ended past his knees, gray pants, black boots, and a pair of Moto Shades to replace his visor.
Agent 2 thought it was best to fit the ghost agent in attire that fit his phantom motif. Plus, the jacket protected him from the cold, and no matter how adamantly the boys claimed to be unbothered by it, the girls refused to let them catch a cold.
As for Agent 7, he was able to wear the bright yellow jacket again, but this time, it was given a fairly high collar and blue accents. He wore his black and white skull bandanna around his forehead and kept the usual black pants, and his new kicks were the same color as the jacket, with a bright yellow base, blue accents, and large white soles. He was the most ecstatic about the outfit, posing, and admiring the craftsmanship.
"For sure," he grinned. "We can invite the other agents too. Also, Agent 2, did I say how much I love this kit?"
"Yes, ten times to be exact, but I don't mind another compliment," she replied with a small smirk. "You boys look great."
"Sorry, we don't have one for Agent 9. We didn't expect to gain another agent," Agent 1 looked to the boys apologetically.
"Don't worry about it," Syrus waved it off. "He'd appreciate the offer but would be more comfortable with his current gear."
"Listen up, guys," Captain Clora spoke up. "We're getting close to the second signal. I appreciate Agent 9's contribution. He was a massive help. Yesterday, he pointed out strange movements from the fuzzy ooze. He claimed it was pulsating more than usual and actively tried to keep his pet Smallfry away from the cores."
"That's not good," Agent 3 commented, brows furrowed. "It means the ooze is adapting to our movements. It's getting more self-aware."
"I've been keeping an ear out for that voice we heard before we took a plunge but haven't heard a thing," Agent 7 explained what happened shortly after he and Syrus defeated DJ Octavio.
"That just means we have to be more mindful going forward. It's no longer wise to split up," Agent 3 said and then looked to Agent 1. "That also means you need to be more careful when investigating by yourself."
"Which is why Agent 2 and I will start going with her," Clora stated, not giving Agent 2 room to retort. "While you boys handle the kettles, we'll crack down on who's behind the fuzzy ooze and figure out why they kidnapped Gramps and Octavio."
"Right on! Let's kick some fuzzy butt!" Agent 7 cheered.
The quintet super jumped to the third site and rode through the pipe to reach the fourth.
"… AHHHH!" Agent 1 gasped when entering the site, putting the boys on high alert.
"What? What is it?" Agent 7 questioned, looking everywhere for a possible threat.
"I was holding my breath," she answered and then laughed. "Don't try that at home."
Agent 3 sighed while Agent 7 giggled.
"Look alive, boys," Agent 2 showed them the layout. "This place could use a good cleanup. We're picking up thirteen kettles. One on the high ground is blasting out a SUPER-strong signal."
Agent 7's jaw dropped. "Thirteen? The last one had seven!"
"They don't get smaller either."
"Come on, man!"
"We better get started then," Agent 3 walked forward a bit. "Get your hugs and kisses from Agent 1 out the way."
"Hey," Agent 7 blushed, "not cool, dude. I love hugs, okay?"
He wanted one though. Agent 1 gave the best hugs. … Lots of them.
Luckily, she was happy to oblige, giving both an encouraging embrace to send them off.
"Good luck. We'll be waiting out here for you."
She waved goodbye as Neo and 7 dispersed into the first available kettle.
"Okay, we need to talk about this," Agent 2 rounded on her cousin, who hummed a tune as she started exploring.
"Whatever could you mean?"
"Callie," Clora raised a brow.
The sprier of the Squid Sisters beamed at her captain. "No need to worry, Captain. I always keep my eye on the prize. I'm not like Marie and Agent 4."
Agent 2 looked offended. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"Gee, I wonder," Agent 1 mused. "Zane's too cute not to tease, but at least I'm not distracting him."
Agent 1 sped up her investigation before Agent 2 could speak her piece, and with that, the girls started their investigation.
Meanwhile, Agent 3 and Agent 7 were deep in enemy territory. They ducked behind cover to avoid enemy fire.
"Be real with me, Syrus. You think Callie likes me?"
Neo 3 peeked from their hiding spot and gunned down the first trooper.
"She's very friendly towards you. I'm not the most girl-savvy, but I think that's a good sign. I'm surprised you haven't asked her out yet. You were so confident in yourself."
"I know, but…" Agent 7 activated the propeller and rode with his partner to the next area, "I'm uneasy. Shell, I nearly lost it when Gramps called them Callie and Marie. I don't want her to think I'm drawn to her idol status. I mean it would be dope, but mom raised us better, you know."
"I doubt Agent 1 thinks that," 3 reassured him. "From your conversations, I believe she's quite fond of you. I think she's only handsy with those she likes a lot."
"You think so?"
"Only one way to find out."
The boys saw the goal in the distance.
"Why don't you ask her to be your partner?"
"Yeah, easy for you to say."
The two made a beeline for the spire. They destroyed the shields keeping the Zapfish captive and claimed their prize.
"Hear me out," Agent 3 put a hand on 7's shoulder. "I may make it look easy, but you don't know how nerve-wracking it was to ask Frye the same thing. So, if I, the socially awkward one, can do it, you, the extrovert, should have no issue."
Agent 7 laughed and lightly punched Agent 3 on the arm.
"Well, we can't be poets like you, but thanks, dude. I'll do my best."
The two agents jetted back to Alterna's surface, relieved another single Zapfish was liberated. None of the girls greeted them on their exit, but they could be heard in the distance.
The boys continued to the next kettle.
"Also, I disagree with what you said. When have you ever been scared?" Zane inquired. "You had no problems asking Frye."
"Only because I put myself through enough mental training. That was one of the toughest battles I ever fought, but my training prepared me for it."
Syrus appeared mighty proud as he said so. Zane, however, noticed something about his friend. He had noticed multiple changes in Syrus and dated them back to when Bolero first appeared.
'I wonder.'
"Syrus, humor me for a sec."
"Hm?"
"Are you horny?"
In a rare moment, Syrus stopped dead in his tracks and appeared at a complete loss for words as he slowly turned towards his friend with the most shocked expression he ever managed.
"Excuse you?"
"Are you down bad for Frye?" Zane reiterated. "I asked you this once before."
"No, I am not feeling aroused!" he loudly whispered.
"You sure?" Zane chuckled, slightly amazed and highly amused by his normally composed friend's perturbed responses. "You act differently around her is all."
"I do not behave like the hormonal boys in our city. I have self-control."
Zane couldn't stop laughing. He had never seen his friend so flustered. The look on Syrus' face was unlike anything the Dualie main ever witnessed.
"Look at the way you talk to her, bro. You were flirting-"
"Playfully bantering."
"Flirting with her mighty casually. That smile and the tone of your voice, and if I didn't know any better, you seemed upset to see her leave. You hate to see her go but love watching her leave."
Zane wiggled his eyebrows, and Syrus couldn't be any more embarrassed.
"You're speaking nonsense. She is the one who started it," the latter crossed his arms, not liking how his face must look. "I only responded in kind. And since when was this about me? You're the one with girl problems."
"I feel a whole lot better after exposing you, horn-ling."
Syrus' frown deepened. "Do not call me that. I've been supporting you every step of the way."
"And I greatly appreciate it, but it's rare seeing you like this so I'm going to enjoy every second. C'mon, horn-ling, I have a ton of questions for you," Zane walked ahead and dove into the next kettle.
Syrus huffed and covered his face with his hand. His friend's comment weighed heavily on his mind.
"Now I'm going to be self-conscious about it."
He followed after Agent 7. The time spent on the kettles suddenly took longer than usual.
Xxx Bolero xxX
By now, the denizens of Splatsville had heard of Bolero's nightly escapees. Many have attested to seeing the enigmatic dancer practicing, but when someone got too close, he vanished.
Many, captivated by his dance, simply watched and tried to decipher his movements.
What story was he narrating? What level of emotion was he feeling throughout his routine?
Some Splatlandians claimed he offered them a chance to share in the moonlight. His beckoning hand invited them to his circle, but his partnership was denied in favor of his identity.
The quiet ambiance of night was the only time the people could see him. Hunters strived to outpace him, but no one was successful, and with each night, Bolero's evasion became better and better. It was like a game, and the Splatlandians were his training partners. He was like a phantom.
No one could touch him.
Then, a few days later, the promised day was upon them. The highly anticipated rematch between Frye and Syrus had finally arrived.