Chapter 2: A New Chapter of Life

As the new Tiara, her face shines, her eyes bright, and very social. Anyone can tell that she is a happy and positive person. Even Tiara felt that she has become a different person. Although she is not sure how.

This morning, she woke up early and slowly drank her milk, saved some for her cereal, and washed the dishes.

"Mmm, what is today's project?" She thought. She tapped the wall adjacent to the sofa and as the projection of her agenda shows up, she sat on the sofa and read it seriously.

"Connect to doctor Jun please."

The projection then showed an empty seat. " Ah, he's not in yet. So I'll just leave a message, in case he needs me."

"I'll be at the library. I just feel the need to read history." and added, "send to doctor Jun's office."

Tiara went straight to the library and chose the corner seat.

"Aren't you going to use the window seat? You always do," said the library girl.

"True, but now, I don't know, I feel like sitting in the corner. Maybe it can add to my concentration."

She smiled.

The girl also replied with a smile.

Tiara continued to walk to the corner. Press H001, and sat comfortably.

"I think I've seen this part before," She murmurs. The film continues, and she sighs. "Oh, all I've seen is only the beginning. I'd better not miss anything.

Just as the film started showing and giving explanations about the planet earth, there was an interruption on the monitor.

Dark intentions

"Oh Jun You must have read my message. Is there something urgent? I had just started to watch a planet named Earth"

" Yes, I need you to come. We need to analyze your condition."

"Well, okay. see you soon.

Jun was rather taken aback when he read the note Tiara sent him. No is she now somehow curious about history?

"I'm not totally sure that she is hundred percent the Tiara, our Tiara," he mentioned to Ryoma. "That's why I tried to stop her looking at history before I'm absolutely sure."

"Well, if you think it's best, I support you. Although starting now, I hope you could handle her better. Do not disappoint me" said Ryoma harshly. He almost sounded as if he was Jun's superior.

"Just a few days more" Jun assured Ryoma. "She is destined to be The One, so we cannot forget to be kind to her. If you really wanted her to be on our side."

"True, but... we can't lose her the way we did."

"Yup, but also... can't blame anyone. We know that she's often a handful. "That's why we should never lose sight of her. Especially since the attack last time.

The sound of steps coming closer made them stop the conversation, just in time.

"You two are really something. I almost never see both of you on your own," Tiara said laughingly while leaning at the slightly open door.

"Yeah... it's because we are inseparable," Jun laughed but sounded bitter. "Nice to see you cheerful today, although I rarely see you moody," he added.

"Ready for the experiment?" Jun looked at Tiara and walked to the door next to Ryoma's office. She automatically seated herself on the chair while waiting for Jun and two of his assistants to prepare to turn on rows of monitors and cables. This of course doesn't escape Jun's watchful eyes. "Good, she does what she usually does."

The assistants put on a rubber headband on her and connects all the cables. Not only to her head, on the rubber headband, and also to her wrist and ankles.

"Ready?"

She nodded

The smaller monitor right in front of her showed a simulation of attackers, fire, falling trees, and injured people. Tiara doesn't see this as a video or simulation on the monitor. She sees this as a real incident. She instinctively focused on helping the injured and at the same time disabling the attackers.

Without even raising a finger, Tiara shot down the attackers but never made the mistake of hitting their own troops' vessels. Meanwhile, the fire is starting to grow bigger. The cry of people could be heard clearly. The cry of pain and anguish fills the air. She now concentrated on helping the people, less on the attacks. She felt their vessels could handle the attackers.

The once clear blue sky was now black and the sweet scent of flowers is now replaced by the smell of smoke and burnt flesh. Tiara did not move a bit, she kept rescuing people while fighting the fire and attackers. Tiara blinked and the biggest fire surrounding the housing was put out. "At least, the people are safe," she said in her mind.

The attack simulation continued for an hour. But for Tiara, it felt like ages. In spite of starting to feel fatigued, she kept her posture and position until all the attackers got shot down, and all the fires were put out. She now helps medics to evacuate the injured, then clears off the debris, and fallen trees, and she then also helps to remove the dead bodies of the attackers.

It was then Tiara slumped in the chair. Jun immediately checked up on her. Checking her vitals sign, worried that there are traces of smoke in her lungs.

"Signs of co2?

"None"

"Smoke?"

"None"

"hardening of blood vessels?"

"None."

They went on for about half an hour until they completed the examination and made sure that Tiara is in good health.

They took off all the gadgets and Jun held Tiara's wrist, to slowly bring her around.

"How is it?"

"I'm good, although a bit more tired than usual. Maybe I just need good home cooking." Tiara assured him. "Ok then, off I Go. See you tomorrow," she said casually.

"Wait, I need to observe you while," he said

"Ok, but I think I really need to sleep."

She sat there with her eyes closed. While Jun continuously look at her and moves the blue ball so the light of the ball shines directly on her forehead for a couple of seconds. He looked closely at her. Jun frowned. He doesn't look happy with Tiara's excellent results. "How come she is still excellent? Don't these blue balls work? He murmured to himself.

He then asks her "How do you feel?"

"Exhausted even more. I'd like to sleep."

"What topic do you like to read at the library and why?"

"Cooking and history. I can try new recipes and I can learn not to make the same mistakes as shown in history."

"Are you going to the library again?"

"No, I'd rather go to bed than go to the library."

"Good for you. Well, that's the Tiara I know, happy and easy-going," Jun said to Tiara while hiding the blue ball in his pocket.

"What is that blue ball? Why are you always using it on me?" Tiara asked, just out of curiosity. But the answer was not what she expected.

Jun look startled. "Why do you ask? It's actually my right to use any tools on you. You are my subject."

Tiara couldn't believe what she just heard, and promptly said, "Subject? Do you mean to say, that I'm just like a hamster to you?"

Jun didn't expect that kind of response from Tiara. But as he was going to answer, Ryoma cut in," Sorry Tiara, but Jun often causes a misunderstanding. Sometimes, he wanted to say A, but it sounds like a B when he actually said it."

Then Ryoma continued, "I think I should explain that yes, we always maintain your condition as you are the spearhead of our troops. You are expected to be in the best condition to lead our troopers in battle. So it's different from experimenting on a hamster, which I think is of no importance. But you, Tiara, are of the utmost importance to us all."

Tiara felt that there is a logic behind Ryoma's words. So she apologized

"Not to worry. You can ask me anything, but right now, I think it's better if you take a rest. You look exhausted."

"I will," she said, as she walks to the front door.

"Sleep well, Tiara."

Ryoma turned to look at Jun. "Don't you dare answer her like that!" Ryoma walked away.

He stopped and turned to look at Jun. "One thing that disappoints me is that she shifted from attacking to helping the injured. That's what you've got to take care of." Ryoma clenched his fist. A habit that often makes Tiara shiver if she had seen it.

He continued, "I haven't seen Tomo for a while. He spent most of the time in the garage. I wonder if he's hiding something."

"Although he is nothing compared to Tiara, and we already have her, you've got to watch him," he added, clasping his hand behind his back. "Get the key to his garage. Find out what's going on. Accidents can happen, right?" Ryoma's voice was harsh and threatening. Jun only nodded while he gritted his teeth and hits his left fist on his right palm behind his back. "Stop bullying me. Wait till it's your turn."

Tiara got home and immediately went to bed and slept. In her dream, she dreamt she was falling into the dark and got hurt "Aah, maybe because it is just a dream." She said to herself, so she just ignored it. But then she slept again. Only this time it was a happy dream.

The next morning, Tiara reached the cozy-looking hut with a swing in the garden. "First, I'll sit on the swing and enjoy the breeze.

A moment later, an older woman opened the door. It was the same woman who stayed with Tiara when she had the incident. But Tiara didn't know that. She didn't even remember the incident. She even forgot the things that were brought by Anne. She also forgot her past times.

The older woman smiled and said nothing. But Tiara answered, "okay, I'll be there in a second, I will finish my favorite Quiche. Don't worry."

Yes, her mom doesn't need to say anything. Tiara actually knew what her grandmother is thinking and vice versa. They both have incredible telepathic abilities. It is even more than just incredible because it is not restricted in time, distance, magnitude, or even space.

Yet, the mom's capability to enter a person's mind is truly one of a kind. She can alter a person's mind and plant kindness and respect for others. This is the one that Tiara hasn't mastered. But Tiara's ability to move things, and attack, making barriers, was none her mother had.

Without Tiara's mom realizing it, Jun has taken a part of the seed of this ability. This geek, by asking the help of Tomo the genius, somehow managed to make a small blue ball, to perform mental abilities. Jun has even used it to alter Tiara's mind and made her forget what she had experienced and forget everything that Jun wanted her to forget.

But what Jun did not realize is that Tomo designed the blue ball for good use. If it is used against those with good natural abilities, it can enhance their abilities more. So when Jun used it against Tiara, to decrease her power, she became even more powerful.

The power of Tiara

At her mom's home, Tiara lay stretched on the sofa, holding a plate of Quiche. "I'll never get bored of this Quiche. I lo.....ve it," she uttered. "I'm glad you're my mom, so I can have all the quiche I want." They both laughed.

Then two hot coffee lattes are already on the side table of the sofa.

Both sat relaxed sipping their latte, talking without speaking, laughing, and really enjoying the quality time together.

"I think it's time to prepare dinner. What do you crave?"

"I think I'll enjoy Shepherd's pie if it is not too much to ask," answered Tiara.

Her mom shook her head. "In fact, I have already prepared everything and all we need to do now is to assemble the ingredients in the fireproof dish and put it in the oven. Tiara helped to prepare the dish and in minutes, it was already in the oven.

"Quick, right?"

"Sure, it's because you have had it prepared beforehand. If not, we still have to prepare the mashed potatoes, the ground lamb, and all. And of course, you didn't even forget that I like lamb better." Tiara smiled at her mother who was sitting not too close to her.

They both really enjoyed their time together, and they always made sure that at least once every fortnight they had a good meal.

Tiara took her food and waved goodbye, heading towards her also tiny house. She turned on all the lights even when she hadn't reached the house. Tiara always wanted a brightly lit room when she entered.

The only time the lights are dimly lit is when she is going to bed.

Tiara was woken up by the voice of her mom. "Dear, wake up please, are you going to see Tomo today? please tell Tomo to look at the Universe. You should too. It is still very far. But somehow I sensed a sinister being who also has the power of telepathy, and he somehow blocks some part of my power so I cannot really see him. He is tall, thin, and has a big scar on his face. He is pure evil."

"I'll contact Tomo as soon as possible, mom" As soon as he heard the news, he washed his face, grabbed his jacket, and left for Tiara's home.

Tomo was perturbed and aghast at hearing the news.

"Could it be that this is the one your mother mentioned years ago? The man who could counterbalance your mother's ability?"

Tiara stayed quiet, then said, "Mom said, he couldn't see anything of this place. She succeeded in blocking him. But mom said I should increase and intensify my ability, to be able to defeat him."

"That's what we're doing all this time, and you really have improved a lot," Tomo said in a serious tone. "And since there is still time, we need to increase your fighting ability, and of course your physical endurance."

"Ok then, let's get to work," Tiara answered. Her face was serious and showed determination.

Just then the monitor in Tomo's office turned on. It was Tiara's mom.

"I had to contact you. There is something I would like to tell you. I was quick enough to block him. From now on, he couldn't see this place, as long as Tiara and I and also others who have this ability, do not telepathize. He was trying to see through us. I feel that he sensed the telepathy yesterday when we were together."

"And Tomo, I felt that someone from the inside is trying to break us. I don't know who. Tiara has a better instinct than me to know the negative side of people."

"But for now, please tell everyone who has the telepathic ability, however mild it is, to not use it. And that includes your scientific telepathy ball of doctor Jun." She said, stressing the last sentence.

"I got that. Thank you. I will immediately inform everyone."

At the same moment, Jun went out in search of Tiara. He was curious as to why Tomo went to Tiara's house yesterday and found her still practicing.

Tiara was standing inside a pitched-black room. Suddenly, something flew above her. And as soon as Tiara looked up, the flying object got destroyed.

Objects started to come from every direction, and at high speed.

Tiara kept her calm and doesn't look disturbed. She handled the situation remarkably. Totally a 100 score points. In another room, others are also practicing mental and physical fighting.

Jun was about to approach Tiara when he saw Tomo was already with her, so Jun decided to back off. Ryoma who was watching Tiara was so amazed. She has become a human weapon. "This is what we need, a human weapon to fight for us."

"How did I do?" Tiara asked Tomo

"Amazing "Tomo responded. "After a heavy practice like that, let's have lunch. I make the best Aglio olio," said Tomo smiling

"Hmm sounds nice. It means all I have to do is enjoy the food of chef Tomo," Tiara was joking and laughing with Tomo.

They walked to Tomo's house beside the garage. "It's a practical setting. I can quickly and easily go to my garage."

"You're really dedicated to your work"

"I guess I am. I want to give the best I could for everyone, and to ward off evil beings," he said in a serious tone.

What Tiara and Tomo didn't know was that since Tiara's practice, eyes have been watching them intensely

No memories

He let Tiara in. It looked the same as her house. Tidy.

Tomo prepared his home-cooked spaghetti. And took this opportunity to really talk to Tiara

"Tiara, these last months, I... I don't know, but I felt that both Ryoma and Jun have something bad up their sleeves. Especially after your incident," Tomo opened the conversation.

"My incident? What do you mean?" Tiara became confused.

"You don't remember?"

Tiara shook her head.

Tomo used his fingers to brush his hair. A habit when he is distraught or nervous.

"What is it Tomo? You always did that when you're stressed," Tiara looked closely at him. "What incident that I had? She asked Tomo.

"Tiara, do you trust me?"

"Yes, of course. You shouldn't have asked. You know I do, " Tiara pouted, feeling miserable that Tomo had to ask.

"Have you felt anything lately?"

Tomo looked so serious that Tiara didn't take it lightly. She tried to dwell deep in her thoughts, and after a time she answered, "yes, I do feel that I am a weapon for Ryoma and Jun. But the strange thing is I feel that Jun wanted to weaken me. He often used his blue ball on me, but afterward, I felt that I have improved even more."

Tomo nodded. "That's what I thought. Though I don't know what the reasons are."

Tomo explained about the benefits of the ball, and then got up and said, we'd better get back. Or else they'll be suspicious.

I will tell you about the incident the next time we meet, okay?".

"O.. okay," she got up lazily, as she actually wanted to know about the incident that Tomo mentioned. But she also realized that Tomo was right. They don't want to raise suspicions.

Tiara is developing

"That was a long lunch break," Jun said in a cynical tone. Tiara felt that. Her curiosity made her sense more sensitive.

As if to change the subject, Jun said, "The level of practice will certainly be upgraded, and it will continuously be more and more difficult. Not only for you but also for the troops. We can't have any mistakes during an attack, when and if that happens."

Then he continued by saying, "Do you have any additional abilities that you haven't told me about?"

Tiara shook her head. Wondering why he asked that? Was he afraid of something, afraid that she was hiding something from him? Tomo's words really got into her. I feel my senses increase, and I start to feel if a person has other intentions behind his words, like Jun just now.

"If I had additional power, maybe I should keep it to myself. No one needs to know. I'm not a prisoner nor a lab specimen." Tiara did not say it out loud even as she felt a bit bothered by Jun's remark.

Tiara walked home and slowly, a hint of sadness fell upon her. What if Ryoma or Jun or both had bad intentions? What if she lost the battle? What will happen to mom and all the people? She took a long deep breath. She reminded herself to always live life in a positive way. "That's what mom does and that's how I was raised."

She walked uphill and sat on the soft white grass in the park. She put her hands, fingers entwined, at the back of her head and lay on the grass, eyes closed.

She slowly felt at peace. She knew that she must be very careful in meeting her mom. "It's a bit sad to think that I may only be able to communicate through the monitor."

Suddenly, she heard a buzz in the sky, as if by reflex which was so fast that she was not even aware of it, she had pulled the source of the buzz, and it banged on the grass. She jumped to stand up, seeing a small boy standing crying while still holding the remote.

"What is it ?" she asked. My ship crashed. She turned to look at where the boy is pointing. a chunk of the ship was there. "Could I have taken it down?" she thought. but she quickly shook that thought. "the most important thing is the boy."

"Don't cry. I will take the ship to someone who can fix it. It will be as good as brand new."

"I... I don't know what happened, the ship just crashed." he babbled

"Don't blame yourself. Remember, be positive. We can fix this."

"I'll walk you home, so I can bring your ship to you, tomorrow if possible, or maybe in a couple of days. Ok?"

He nodded and hugged her. "Thank you" She hugged him and walked, still holding his small hand.

A slim woman welcomed them. And the boy told her everything that happened.

She smiled and patted the boy's head. "Have you said thank you?" the boy nodded and Tiara explained that she will bring the ship after it was fixed.

"It's really a nice place to live. No place can exceed this. Everyone is so nice and friendly.

She took a leisurely walk home. She enjoyed looking at the beautiful stars, before entering her house to rest.

The next day, she went to practice after asking Tomo to fix the ship, which to her amazement, will be ready at 4 in the afternoon.

"We'll give it to the boy together. Then we can continue our talk," said Tomo. "Your house or mine?

"Mine," Tiara said laughingly, but I'm not going to cook"

"Deal. We'll just have your favorite drink, milk." They both laughed. Somehow Tiara felt that with Tomo, she could be herself.

So after practice, they gave it to the boy. She felt relieved when the boy accepted the plane happily. "It looks as if it's new. Thank you" He said with a big smile. Another happy day.

They continued walking to Tiara's house

It was after they sat down that Jun told Tiara the incident. He told her that during that time, Tiara started to rebel, because she felt that something was not right. "You once told me you had sensed 'something', something connected to Jun and Ryoma That's when you started to dig, to be able to know the truth. But that"s also when the incident happened. You fell and you lost consciousness. "I don't really know whether you actually fell or not. I felt that your hunch is right, there must be something that they are hiding. Especially as I wasn't allowed to come near.," Tomo related the incident. "That is why when I visited you, I asked you to not tell anyone that I had been there."

"And oh, after you fell, you seem to have another identity. You didn't remember a thing about this place. That's when Jun made you forget the incident."

"I wanted you to remember this place because this is your home, but I don't want you to forget everything. That's not right. This time, I was the one who rebelled. I want you to remember, you have the best ability in sensing others. So believe in your feelings."

"Both of them must have felt that I am a thorn in the flesh, a threat to them. I saw someone trying to get into my garage. No one has access to it. I think we should watch each other's back."

"Tiara, please take care,'" Tomo said as he was leaving.

"I've put extra security measures on your house, so no one could enter except you. I was worried that they might have planted a mic or something so I had it checked myself. Your house is safe."

Tiara nodded as an answer.

Practice makes perfect.

Days, weeks, and months after, she kept practicing regularly, without complaining. She knew it is hard work, but she also knew that she must never slack. Her abilities kept growing and growing. She did feel that she is a level up. Although she kept this fact to herself.

Just like any other day, she walked home, longing for good food and a hot shower, before bed. How surprised was when she saw in front of the door a big food box, with a small note: Love you more.

She knew it was her mom, but she didn't do the telepathy. She said thank you through the monitor.

"Miss you mom. You look good"

"And you looked tired." she smiled. "Get a shower, have a hearty dinner, and get a good night's sleep."

She showered and opened one of the canisters and put one in the fridge for tomorrow." I can have two hearty dinners," she sniffed the delicious scent of cheese on the Quiche and decided to eat it first then have a good night's rest.

She woke up early and put the other glass canister in the microwave. Seconds later, she was already enjoying her shepherd's Pie and a glass of iced Coffee Latte. She thoroughly enjoyed the meal and felt that she was energized and ready to face the upcoming practice, which Jun said will be one of the hardest.

"I'm ready," she said as she entered the practice room. Ryoma and Jun were there.

"Wow you do look energized," said Jun laughing, but Tiara sensed it as a cynical laugh. But she ignored it. "I won't be provoked by his attitude," she said to herself.

The practice went well. Tiara can't remember how many vessels she shot down and how many troops she pushed back. How many injured ones she has saved? The situation was havoc. "But I think I did well."

Actually, it was perfect. There was not even one single casualty on Tiara"s side. The troopers were also amazing. They were so accurate. Tiara gave a thumbs up to the guys who are now getting in turn to practice."

"Hey guys, thank you so much for your support. We really did great, didn't we ?" Tiara said cheerfully while again raising a thumbs up. Everyone cheered and made high fives.

She decided to walk to the bird park, before going home. Tiara is always impressed with the rare birds, which are almost extinct. She especially loves the Java Gelatik. a small grey feathered bird, only 15 cm big, with a red beak, and pink feet. She really loves when they're singing, as they often chirp merrily. It really enlightens the mood of those who heard them singing.

Even today, when she doesn't really need enlightenment. She misses being near the birds. "hello little ones," she said while giving some tiny seeds to them. As if they understands her kindness, they flew around her and lively chirped.

"Hello, looks like you've made them happy today" the birdman laughed, hugging her.

All of a sudden, all the birds started shrieking and making chaos.

What's going on? What's wrong?" Tiara said a bit louder while covering both ears with the palms of her hands. In her vision, she saw vessels, but she felt calm

"Something going to happen. said the man. I"m calling Tomo. You'd better get ready."

"I know, I felt it," she told the birdman." but it is not dangerous."

In seconds, the sound of sirens fills the air. Steel plates started closing on every building. The safety of the people is of the utmost importance.

As if by reflex, she ran as fast as she could to the portal. Faraway she saw red and green vessels coming toward them. The troopers are ready behind her. "No need to fly the troops yet," Tiara said calmly while closing her eyes. " It's not the Evil Villain," she added.

After a couple of seconds of waiting. Tiara said to her troopers "They're not dangerous. They don't mean any harm. They're just frontiers who were sent to find a safe place. I will just make them see this place as unlivable.

Then, Tiara concentrated her mind and the place got masked with craters, big and small. Fire jumps from the craters. I will make them feel the heat. So they will not come near.

Tiara kept her eyes closed while waiting for the effect of her made-up heat.

She could hear them saying, "Better not go near there. it's clearly hot and uninhabitable."

The vessels slowly turn around and zip fast in another direction.

Tiara still kept the masking, until she was really sure it is safe. The troopers still stand behind her until everything is back to normal.

Each of the troopers high-fived and Tiara thanked them all, then walked together quickly to the Centre.

"So, Your ability has improved that much. Why didn't you tell me? You should have told me everything, He glared at her and hit his fist on the desk.

"I don't have to tell you anything," Tiara said, starting to get annoyed.

"Why didn't you attack them? That's what you're supposed to do. Ryoma's voice showed how angry he is."

Why should we attack if they are not dangerous?"

"You don't have the authority to make decisions. I'm the one who makes decisions!"

"You have the authority you said? Our duty is to protect the people. So now you think, you're the boss?" Tiara also answered angrily. She showed no fear and stood up for what she believed in, which is humanity.

"Do you want to kill innocent people? Just because you don't like them?"

Ryoma and everyone there was surprised at her blatant response. Ryoma realized the mistake that he made. So he immediately changed the tone of his voice, "You're right," was his short reply.

She turned to look at Tomo who constantly stood by her side. "I think since the troopers and I have increased capability, I think we can help you build permanent masking for this place. So anyone on the outside will see that this place couldn't be inhabited, and they will leave."

"Good idea. Actually, I was working on that. Glad to have all your help" Tomo said to the troopers, while Ryoma and Jun kept quiet. They cannot say anything negative in public. So, just for the need of saying something, he said, "Do you really think that it's possible?"

"I'm sure of it. I'm sure that Tomo and his team's expertise with technology, and added to the troop's mental abilities. I think we can be strong," assured Tiara.

Ryoma looked towards the big windows with arms folded." In my opinion, it's worth the try. Nothing to lose. He stood with his back facing them. think it will also support the mental and physical health condition of the troops. They don't have to be constantly on stand-by mode 24/7, he said while trying to press his anger." Tiara knew that.

"The community can be more relaxed and have a healthier mental condition also." Ryoma tried to be soft-spoken, and Tiara was aware of that.

Jun added lamely, "I mean, it may not be effective for all vessels or attacks, but I think, at least, it may work for those lower in science than us. It would be possible." He explained his reasoning.

Then he continued, " Does it mean that you are sure we can counter-attack the villain easily?"

"I don't think anything is ever easy," Tiara answered short. " Why did he say villain and not villains? Could it be he knew something about the attack?"

"Jun, you seem scared that we might beat the villain easily. Why is that?" Tiara asked suddenly.

Jun was too surprised, to hear Tiara's question, that he couldn't answer right away.

"Unable to answer huh Jun? so maybe what Tiara said is true?"Ryoma had Jun cornered.

"It's not that. I was only shocked to hear her accusation. She's even harsher now,"

"Ok, enough!" Ryoma said, turning to look at them. "I don't want any more talk like this. I'll keep an eye on both of you!"

"So, does it mean that you won't be keeping an eye on me? Who is it then that tried to open my garage?"

"I did. I was curious about what you've been hiding?"

"Hiding?" Tomo exclaimed. I have worked extra hard in perfecting the masking, with the help of Tiara's troopers. Why didn't you ask me? Or is it because you are the one who has something to hide?" Tomo looked Ryoma straight in the eye, and said, "Maybe you should find out if you think one of us is a rat."

Tomo walked past him and stood by Tiara. "Tiara and troopers are not your killing machines. Just remember that!"

Nobody expected Tomo would speak like that, and they appreciate him for defending them.

Nobody spoke. Tiara signaled to the troopers that they can leave.

Pretending... Pretending

After the troops left, Ryoma said, "Why don't we go to the university lunchroom and find new recruits together."

Tiara and Tomo exchanged looks and both wondered, "what is he up to now?"

Having changed clothes and now clad in white everyday clothes, they all look fresh and young. They look the same age as university students.

Seated at two of the corner tables, they were able to look at the students coming in. Tiara sat with Jun, while Tomo and Ryoma sat on the other one. Ryoma pretended to read a virtual book, while Tomo tried to look busy with his virtual pad. Both looked on edge.

Tiara and Jun are trying to have casual conversations while drinking coffee lattes and having egg sandwiches. "I almost forgot the taste of this delicious sandwich which I used to have during my school days," said Tiara while enjoying her sandwich.

"Has it been that long since you had these? I just had them for breakfast yesterday," Jun said.

"I rarely eat out. I'd rather drink milk and have just a plate of scrambled eggs for breakfast. Healthy and filling, and easy to make," Tiara said while she kept munching her sandwich.

Jun, on the other hand, seems to be listening casually but is actually listening to the very detail, to know if Tiara has totally come back. Tiara pretended not to notice the watchful eyes of Jun and especially Ryoma.

"Wasn't it just last month that you and I had a bacon sandwich?" Jun said as casually as he can.

"Aaah, you must be getting old Jun. Maybe you went with someone else. or maybe you like me so much that you thought it was me," she couldn't hold her laugh.

Tiara acted naturally. She really was a good actress. Even when she realized that Jun was testing her, testing her memory, testing her honesty of whether she has completely made a comeback and not hiding anything.

Jun was constantly in full awareness of testing and judging her.

At first, after she had been made to forget the incident, Tiara thought that Jun's constant scrutiny was just because Jun is a doctor, as he always had this intent look on her. Although she sometimes had her doubts, she never realized them. She never had a real clue until her senses became sharper.

A few days later...

On the day when they went to the Lunch Room, each of them had chosen 5 top candidates and another 10 for backup.

Tiara had chosen those who have the talent and those who have the heart of gold and are willing to lend a hand, without any selfish intention. eight young men and 7 young women now stand beside Tiara in protecting the place.

She had performed the mental training for almost a week now, and she felt really satisfied with the result.

They have developed their mental strength so well. And they also maintained good physical strength to endure the exhaustion and pain as they held their stance to protect The Place.

Meanwhile, Tomo and his team, have perfected the technology system. He is now able to maintain permanent masking for the place. The pilot vessels had flown to see the masking of the place while keeping an eye on the evil vessel that has been warned about. "The vessel is not yet to be seen. But when they showed up, I'm sure we will be ready to face it."

Tomo then informed Tiara of the development. "The masking worked. But that's not all, We have enhanced all the home vessels in every household. So if anything beyond our prediction happens, at least I hope everyone will be safe. And The Place will also be safe. It is of the utmost importance that I will be able to generate the best solution.

"I believe you Tomo," Tiara said. I've known you all these years and especially these last few months to be convinced that you will do the best to deliver the best results."

"Thank you. That meant a lot, Tiara. Well, I will take a break with all the guys, and tomorrow we will make a house-to-house check, just to make sure everything is perfect" Tomo then went with his team.

The Centre was empty. There were only Jun and Ryoma. The others have taken a break. They both walked to Ryoma's office. Neither of them said anything.

Ryoma waited for the door to be closed and locked, as if not wanting anyone to know about What he and Jun were about to discuss.

"You seem a bit off these couple of days," Jun started the conversation.

"I'm sure you noticed that Tomo's expertise, ingenuity, and brilliance have developed beyond our expectations," answered Ryoma

"Yeah, I do notice it. So what about it? He's providing us with results that we never thought he could. Just amazing, isn't it? So what's the problem?

Ryoma took a deep breath. I never thought that you wouldn't understand."

Ryoma continued, "If he exceeded the intelligence that we predicted, more than what we expected, he may eventually find out the truth, the real thing, the non-virtual reality of all this, of all that we have built. Thus there's a possibility of ruining it all."

He continued by saying, "Don't forget the problem we had with Tiara. It happened because you were disillusioned by her personality, that you were unaware of the dangers she might have brought." Ryoma said, squinting his eyes.

"Yes, I realized that. But now, as you can see, I'm very careful when I'm around her. And I also have kept virtual history out of the library, so no one has access, including Tiara, as she became too interested in history."

"That too makes me wonder, what got into her, to want to read history. Could it be connected to the incident?"

"I suppose so. Although for now, I can for sure say that we've got her back," Jun answered.

"For now," Ryoma repeated and emphasized it.

"Yes, for now. I cannot say anything yet if it is connected to the future."

"I think we'd better go now. For if they're back, they could be curious or even suspicious."

Ryoma stayed inside while Jun went out, just in the nick of time before everybody came in.

"I didn't see you. Did you skip a meal?" Tomo asked casually

"Well, I had to. I noticed some trouble. But everything okay now."

"Good. don't need any trouble do we?" Tomo holds his thumbs up. He saw Ryoma quietly watching him. "What were those two up to?" he said to himself. "I should be on alert."

"Tomorrow is your day off," Jun said to Tiara before they went home

"Right, I think I'd go to the library and read or watch anything which might interest me.

"And what might that be?"

"hmm....maybe a little bit of cooking and history."

"We'll send me some of your cooking if you happen to try one recipe," Jun said casually, without mentioning or commenting on the history.

"I'll send you if I succeeded in making it," she said waving and continuing walking.

She walked down the cobbled path. Enjoying every moment of being away from Ryoma and Jun, when a young boy approached her.

"You're Tiara, right?"

"I guess that's my name," she said smiling. "Anything I can do?"

'You're the name of this place, so you must be very important, or do you own this place?

"Neither," she said. "I never knew whether this place is named after me or I'm named after this place, or it was just coincidence But you know what, I am not that important nor that special."

"Well, all the people here felt thankful because you often saved us with your specialties."

"Can you teach me how?" he said quietly. "Sorry, I didn't mean to blurt out like that but I want to be like you."

"What's your name?"

"I'm Nino."

"Well, hi Nino. Let's sit down first, shall we? "Oh, there's a bench."

Both sat and Tiara slowly said "Why do you want to become like me? I think every person has their own talent, advantages, their own specialties. So I guess Nino, being like me is not special. Just be confident and be yourself. Be proud of your pre-eminence. I'm sure you already know what it is."

"Well. I'm not sure actually. Nowadays, I often had a dream. The dreams were very vivid. As if I were really experiencing it. But when I told my family, they just laughed and told me that it was nothing."

He looked down at his feet, brushing off the fallen leaves near his shoes. "Lately, I seem to re-dream it over and over again." he said then continued, "A couple of times, some of the dreams that I had, came into reality in the next couple of days or after some time. Could you honestly say, that it's my special ability?"

"Can a person have more than 1 ability? I mean, it's becoming easier for me to learn anything, physics, math, algorithm. I don't really know when it started, but I feel that my intelligence is growing."

"I could say, yes, it may be so. But to make sure, one day, I'd like you to tell me your dreams and your intelligence capabilities."

He was about to tell her when Tiara said. " I'd like to hear about it. Umm... but not now," Tiara added. "It's getting late. You'd better get home. We"ll meet here Saturday morning, okay?"

"Great, thank you, he said waving and running home.

"Tiara stretched as she got up from the bench, "Dream? I think I've had some before, though I can't really remember." A pair of eyes were watching them intently. Listening to every word.

She hurriedly showered and prepared a simple dinner. Just some fried bacon strips and mashed potato from a tin with a lot of mayo, and relaxed on the sofa.

She got up and tapped the wall, to contact her mother.

"Hi mom, healthy? " she asked

"Of course. I always eat healthily. Not like you, eating just for the sake of eating," she said pointing at Tiara's plate.

"Haha... I am too lazy to prepare dinner."

"Mom... can I ask you something?"

Her mom nodded, so she continued, "Do you remember I had vivid dreams?"

"I remember you dreamt, but are there that's vivid?" she answered Tiara with a question.

"So I never had a dream that really came true?"

"Well. you dreamt of having a birthday party. And yes the next day is your birthday."

"No, no. what I meant is not that trivia, but something serious."

"I don't quite remember. But not to worry dear, a dream is often just a dream. Sometimes, something that you really wanted, can form into a dream."

Tiara nodded, why did her mom just brush it away? But then her mom said, "I'll send you Nicoise salad tomorrow. '

They both waved goodbye and ended the conversation.

No trace of Nino

The next morning, a canister of salad was already at her door when she woke up.

She quickly puts it in the fridge, drank a glass of milk, and rushed to the library.

The same young girl greeted her. Is there anything special you want to watch today?

"Ya, I want to continue watching the history of nature."

"I'm so sorry but everything connected to history has been taken off."

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"Well, It seems like there's something wrong with it, so they had to take it off

"When will it be available?

"Well. I don't know for sure, Is there anything else you want to see or read?" she offered politely.

"Well ok, I guess I can try some cooking."

"I'll sit by the window," she added. While heading to the chair, for a split second, a feeling of doubt flashed inside her. "Why did mom brush it off? She was not like that."

But her thought was interrupted when the girl came and mentioned that she can choose any type of cooking.

"I'll just have a look at the easy one," she answered, forgetting her split-second thought.

The next day, Saturday, she woke early had her salad and latte and walked swiftly to the bench. She doesn't want to be late and she really wanted to hear about his dreams. She wanted to help him. Not to brush it off like it was nothing.

She waited and waited. Still no sign of him. Maybe he overslept, she thought. "I'll wait a little bit more."

She waited, but still, Nino didn't show up. "Maybe he changed his mind, or maybe he has a family outing since it's Saturday."

The next day, she sat at the same bench, waiting. But still, no sign of Nino, until she heard Nino whisper in her mind.

"I cannot meet you, or they will eliminate me." He said the words hurriedly as if afraid someone will hear them.

Tiara didn't move an inch. and just pretended to read her virtual book.

"What is happening? " She asked herself. Who is going to eliminate him?"

Tiara felt herself shiver. She said to herself as she walked, " It just doesn't make sense. This is a safe place in spite of the attacks.

She lay on her bed, looking at the ceiling. " Could it be that he was imagining things? Lots of youngsters have a wild imagination."

She turned and lay on her side. Arms folded under her head. "In a place like this, how can there be anything sinister? Maybe I'm too serious, maybe I'm overthinking, and maybe the boy just got confused between reality and dreams."

Days had gone by and Tiara who was extremely busy practicing to increase herself mentally and physically had forgotten about the boy.

It was during her day off, when Tiara decided to browse, in search of the boy. She scrolled up and down, using a different search, but to no avail. There was no one by the name of Nino.

Maybe that's not even his real name, Tiara thought. And she searches through face recognition. blonde hair, a bit of shaggy style, slim face. As she inputs everything she remembered about the boy, she remembered him clearly, just as if it was yesterday when she met him.

Seconds went by and still, the writing on the monitor showed 'Not recognized. No Data'

"I don't get it," she mumbled to herself. The boy was there. I couldn't have been mistaken."

Tiara almost telepathizes with Nino, but then she called it off. She remembered that it was too dangerous to perform telepathy, when they may be under serious attack.

Then she decided to ask about it when she met Tomo.

It was two days later when she met him. "I've been looking for you'" Tiara said sighing in relief.

"Me? What was it that is so important that even made you sigh."

"I met a boy, and we made a promise to meet again. But he never showed up. I tried to look for him, but there was not a single piece of data about him. Strange isn't it?"

"If he exists, then the data should be there. Even if he stopped existing. The data should confirm it."

"Stopped existing, you mean in the sense of dead? He's alive. I saw him."

"If he is dead, you can still get the data under Deceased. Come, I'll help you look."

From afar, Ryoma and Jun watched them. "She's a very curious person, So she pries on everything which she thought doesn't match."

Jun asked, " Did you know anything about this?"

Ryoma nodded. "I did what had to be done."

Jun opened his mouth as if he wanted to say something, but he decided not to. He doesn't want Ryoma's attention to shift to him. "I couldn't make Ryoma suspicious." So he just went to meet the troops and made the check-ups. His team has already started earlier, checking and analyzing each person. So he quietly joined them.

Is that them?

The sirene blared loudly. Everyone abruptly stopped whatever they were doing. Tiara and Tomo went straight to the portal to join the troops. Pilot vessels reported that the masking is still intact. A number of vessels flew closer. Tiara put barriers on the vessels so the attackers cannot see them, that is why they did not shoot.

"They are the attacker, but they couldn't see us with the masking and barrier. We are safe for now. You did good Tomo," said Tiara.

"You too. The barrier was a great help."

Ryoma looked relieved and so are all the others. "Hope we can handle them next time when they come again. I think they will," he said.

"I agree, I think they will. I don't think they will give up easily," said Tomo.

In the darkest of the night a couple of months later, the sirene could be heard clearly. Houses and all buildings are quickly hidden.

Tiara got out and heads straight to the portal. Part of the troops is already there.

She knew the volcano and eruption masking is still intact. But she also felt that danger is heading their way.

"This is it," she mumbled to herself. "This is the real one. I can feel hatred in the air." She sensed deep hate from one of the vessels for someone in this place.

She mentally scanned to find out who. And her eyes stopped at Ryoma. She could see the glint in his eyes. A glint not only of aloofness. He also portrays a personality, which Tiara never sensed before. She felt darkness within him, A trait that she has never seen or felt. But the hate did not come Ryoma. She was sure that Ryoma did not know who is in one of those vessels.

She tried to focus on the vessel. She sensed that the vessel leader felt a very deep hatred and wanted revenge. He's only after Ryoma. He doesn't really want to destroy the place. But if it has to be done, so he can get Ryoma, so be it. For him, it is death to death.

She informed Tomo about the situation, but she didn't send her thoughts to Ryoma or Jun. She doesn't really know the reason for not informing them. She just felt a negative vibe when she was with them.

Tiara exclaimed, " This is it. This is the attacker with the leader. We have to give it our all."

"Ready!" the troopers shouted in conformity.

As soon as he got the information from Tiara, Tomo and his team started to prepare the vessels, preparing to leave the place if needed.

Everyone holds their breath as if wanting to save energy.

Second per second passes by and all of a sudden, squisszhhh, vessels passing at such speed, while constantly attacking.

With the masking intact, how could they have known that this place is inhabited? Tiara turned to look at Tomo who was standing not far behind her. Without speaking, Tiara knew what Tomo was thinking, and vice versa.

Tomo walked to the rear line where he was supposed to be. To help keep everyone safe.

Tiara and the troopers tried to cast out the vessels, trying hard not to cause any fatalities on both sides.

The attack stopped. Tiara and the troopers waited until the attackers made the first move. But this time, they didn't. They did not attack. They seem to be just on guard or waiting for the command.

Hours went by. Nothing moved.

Tiara told the troopers and pilots to change shifts so that at least they could energize themselves.

Tiara concentrated on one vessel which sends the biggest signal. "It's communicating. It's communicating with someone."

Tiara glanced around, but just as she did that, the communication stopped. "He was watching my every move. How does he know my position? He knows I'm on to him. Who can that be?"

Before Tiara was able to get her answer, vessels started to attack. Tiara and the troopers fought hard.

They knew this enemy was not an easy one. The strange thing is, the attackers seem to know their position, even though the masking was intact.

Who is he?

Tiara noticed a vessel lurking behind other vessels forming a barricade for this one.

The vessel lurking behind rows of vessels suddenly zoomed out. And shot alarmingly toward Ryoma. And it would be right on target. Following her reflex, Tiara shouted in horror, but her voice sounded like a high-pitched voice, overpowering the turmoil and clamor. Abruptly, everything stopped to a standstill.

Nothing moved. not even a breeze could be felt. Tiara looked around her. She never thought this could happen. She never thought that she could stop time.

She was in shock. She looked up and saw all the vessels stopped even those which are still far away from the place. She touched the arms of one of her troopers. He didn't move a bit. He doesn't even look like he's alive.

"What have I done? God, what have I done?"

She walked towards Ryoma. She stopped the laser in the nick of time. She waved her finger to disarm it and moved Ryoma and others from the point of the laser. And then with her eyes intently looking towards the vessel, she turned it so it moves in the opposite direction.

Prior to moving in the direction of the vessel, Tiara used her limited time to get into Ryoma and The Captain's minds. Never crossed her mind that she will see a deep hatred on the Captain's side. Maybe Ryoma was unsure about who was in charge of this attack, so his hatred felt mild.

Seconds later, as the minutes of stoppage ended, the attack comes alive. She looked at Ryoma. He's safe and the Captain made a retreat, so when the others saw their leader back off, they followed suit.

In a short time, peace could be felt again.

Everyone stood still, intrigued as to why all the vessels retreated.

Tiara stepped towards Ryoma. "Who are they? Why did they attack?"

"I don't know. I thought I knew, but actually, I don't. Maybe it's just because they want to grab our paradise, he shrugged. "For now, I'm just thankful that they're gone."

"I couldn't agree more," Tiara replied. "But I'm sure they will be back."

Everything seems to be normal again. Yet no one knew and wondered what exactly happened.

After a few moments, she said loudly. "There is a leak. A person has become a rat. Whoever this person is, if you endanger or jeopardize the good people, I will get you!" She said it to feel the change of expression in every person. And she knew who that is."

Tiara decided not to tell anyone yet. something in her, tells her not to disclose it, and as she herself is still new to it, she doesn't really want to talk about it.

In bed, she tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Her memory was filled with the image of everything being still. When she finally slept, she was met with a very disturbing dream.

A dream filled with black fog. She was running from someone. Running without knowing where to go. She kept running towards a bright opening but seems like she will never reach it. a dark figure was standing at the other end, on the dark side. She couldn't see the figure clearly.

Tiara woke up sweating and out of breath.

It felt almost impossible to open her eyes, and she fell back into the dark dream. Again she was running, this time barefooted. The dark figure stayed still. It was like in a horror movie, where the victim ran as if already for miles, but ended up in the same spot. This time, she could see that it was a man. And the one being chased by the cloud-like entity is not her. It'sTomo.

"Who are you? What do you want?" she shouted in her dream.

No answer. The dark, foggy sinister engulfed her in the darkness, making her cough and breathless.

She woke up sitting on the bed. Alone. She quickly turned on the lights. Everything looks the same, a normal bedroom. Little did she know that a pair of eyes has been watching her from afar.

She walked out of the bedroom, went straight to the kitchen, opened the fridge, and took a carton of cold milk. "Maybe this will freshen me up, she thought while gulping her milk.

Although it does make her wake up, it doesn't seem to get rid of her fear and a slight feeling of anguish."What wickedness will Tomo face?" She tried to tell herself that it was only a dream, but it does not seem to work.

She felt that there was something behind that dream., only she doesn't know what. So she sat huddled on the sofa, waiting for the sun to come up.

She doesn't want anyone to know of her nightmare, so she showered and changed, trying to look as cheerful as possible. "Don't let anyone be curious," she said to herself over and over again as she went on her way to the Centre.

As she got there, Tomo was agitated. His team seems to be under a lot of stress.

"Did something happen?" Tiara asked one of the technicians.

"It doesn't record yesterday's attack," he said, pointing to the rows of monitors.

Tiara walked closer, and yes, it kept recording up to the point when she shrieked and everything was at a standstill. The monitor only showed static lines.

Her mouth gaped. She totally forgot that every attack was recorded, so as to be a learning material for the next generations.

She quickly regained her composure, before anyone could find out. "How could I forget?" she asked herself." I have no time to think about what I'm doing. I just did what I had to do. It was just a reflex. I hope I didn't get myself in trouble.

The group dispersed, and only the twosome, Tomo, and Tiara were left.

The recording started again, but this time, the position of the captain's vessel was not towards the place, but towards the sky, as if it was retreating.

Ryoma, Jun, and Tomo noticed it.

"Did you see the position of the vessel? It had turned around. So something important was missing during the glitch,' said Jun. "I don't seem to remember anything different during the attack. And I don't really know the reason for the attack."

"Maybe they only want a safe place to live, just like the former attack," Tiara said, hoping it will ease the tension a bit."

"Did you remember anything Tiara? Something out of the ordinary?" Jun turned, looking at her closely.

"How could I forget? It was the most amazing thing that happened to me. I can stop time.", she spoke in her heart.

She quickly regained her composure, and before anyone could find out, she answered, "I think not. I was too focused on trying to stop the attack without any casualties, especially on our side. I have no time to think about what I'm doing. I just did what I had to do. I hope I didn't get myself in trouble."

Tiara was able to answer confidently. her voice was clear and steady, and nothing in her mind that Jun could read.

"Maybe, just maybe they had a weapon that harmed the recording for a short while. I will look into this, and we will upgrade it." Tomo said, heading towards his team.

"Do you want to come Tiara? Tomo asked.

"I think I need to regain my physical strength, Tiara said, heading to the ultra-modern gym.

"Do you believe her?" Jun whispered to Ryoma.

"Yes for now, "Ryoma answered confidently," At least she did it didn't she? And the attack was really heavy. Even I am too focused and didn't see the vessel coming from behind the rows of other vessels."

"You didn't see it, then what was the last thing you saw?"

"It was when this one vessel suddenly sneaked up from behind the rows and headed towards me."

Jun turned back the recording. "is this the last one you saw?" he asked again.

Ryoma looked at the attack closely," Yes the vessel could have hit me right there. "

'But it didn't." Jun emphasized. "It didn't hit you." The glitch began, and the vessel got turned around." Jun sounded angry and bewildered.

"I see what you mean. Did someone save me during the glitch? Who could it be?"

"If it was her, why did she lie?" Ryoma looks towards the gym.

"Maybe something happened? Something that she doesn't want anyone to know?"

Ryoma and Jun looked at each other. "Find it out," said Ryoma firmly.

Days passed as if in routine. Nothing special. Just the everyday life which Tiara loves. She loves the serenity, she loves watching the cows and lamb grazing. And the one she really loves is being with the birds. Especially the Gelatik, listening to their cheerful chirps.

The nightmare has faded. She slept well and almost forgot the dream. One night, she drank warm milk and got ready for bed. She had just put her head on the pillow and slept when she dreamt another nightmare. She tried to wake up, but all is in vain, in her dream, she felt she had to get away from a dark place, but it seems that it will never happen. She was unable to escape.

Tiara was so exhausted. Just when she was about to give up, a light shines on the other side of the darkness, as if giving her hope.

This time, turning around to look at the figure, and to her surprise, she saw someone who looks like Jun. "It couldn't be, It couldn't" And she wakes up.

Tiara felt that the figure held something dark beneath him. She even felt that this figure could have taken her life in just seconds. He had this immense inner strength that Tiara did not feel, in the everyday life.

"And what light was it? Is it a real light from a lamp or what is it?" All sorts of thoughts were tangled in Tiara's mind. I need to have an answer. I need to find out before they find out things about me.

She heads to the library, hoping maybe she could sense something in the History film.

"The history is not here yet," said the girl seemingly knowing that Tiara came for the film.

"Is there any other copy?"

"No, none about the history of nature, but there is an old copy which was really old and forgotten. It is about the history of mankind."

"Can I borrow it? It's my day off and I'd like to relax at home."

"Well, okay, since nobody seems to remember about it.' The girl gave the copy. and Tiara heads home quickly. She can't wait to watch it.

She dims the light and starts the film. She didn't even bother to change clothes or get a drink as she usually does when she gets home.

She sat straight, focusing on the movie. Minutes passed by. She saw humans in the early ages. The film then showed Noah's ark. it showed each species of animal, as couples were taken into the ark. Saving each species from perishing.

"Could this place be Noah's Ark?" she thought. She remembered the birds. The birdkeeper mentioned that they took every species of bird and other animals, dan breed them.

She tried to remember every scene. She couldn't hold the tears when she saw how mankind treat nature. How they chop down the trees until there are no more trees in the mountains. The forest cannot be called a forest anymore since it was just like an empty dead land.

She watched it continuously and with full watchfulness. Felt sad at every scene she saw. It was hours later that she realized it was already 3 am. She decided to end it and get some sleep.

Days later, she had time to continue watching. This time she was really in tears as she saw how humans treat the earth, animals don't have a place to live. since there are no more forests or even jungles. animals start to come to human places and hunt them. Animals are hungry so as humans are meat, they ate humans. They become predators.

Humans started to eliminate other humans to dispel rivalry as food and other needs are scarce,

Tears run like rain down Tiara's cheek. That was a dreadful time," She thought.

"If this an ark and not everyone could fit in, what happened to the rest?"

There are lots of children. I can't imagine it." Tiara sobs.

I can't watch it again. I can't!"

Tiara cried until she fell asleep.

The next day she woke up late. Eyes swollen. I can't go with my face looking like this. She put a compress on and decided to just stay at home, and temporarily stopped watching the film to avoid getting her eyes getting worse.

She was just lying on the sofa with her eyes closed, feeling relaxed when she heard, a voice inside her head. " Who are you? You are kind-hearted, yet you're close to the darkness. Could it be that you really don't know?"

Tiara sat up. "What was that? Who said that? It's not a dream and I'm not imagining things." Tiara repeated the words that the male voice said. "The darkness, is it the same dark figure that I was so afraid of in my dreams?"

"Am I losing my mind?" Tiara was so stressed out, but she felt that she couldn't talk to anyone. She somehow felt that she was being watched. And the feeling keeps getting stronger.

She decided to go to her mother, just to get the turmoil out of her chest.

"Well, good to see you. I made a lot of hot Ramen today, I even separated the soup so you can take it home and only need to warm it up.

"Thanks, mom, I think I need hot thick soup Ramen to warm me up, and maybe clear my mind," Tiara said.

"Let's eat and spill everything that's bothering you."

" I don't really know what's bothering me. Everything is mixed up in my mind. i don't even know what to think. "

"Just start from the beginning that you remembered." her mother calmed her.

"I had this dream...," she told her about the dark figure that scared her, about the old history film that she watched, and how it affects her.

Her mother didn't say a word, as she listened to her intently. When Tiara had finished, her mom still didn't say a word. After some time, she said "Don't jump to any conclusions and think more of it. Try to search deep within your mind, in your memories. Watch that you don't spill anything and choose your cup of coffee carefully, even though it only seeps a little."

"Here's your ramen, and a big cup of latte. Watch the cup when you get home. Take a look at whether it seeps. "

Although confused, Tiara did what her mom told her and quickly head home.

Reaching her house, she looked around her, wondering if someone was watching her. She quickly went in and put the cup on her kitchen table. She took the cup with both hands, feeling the warmth of it when she felt a sticky liquid on the palm of her hands.

She looked at it and gasped. A blurry face can be seen. She quickly wiped her hands, without saying a word. She was afraid, too afraid to say anything, and afraid that she might make a mistake.

She heads to the library, and just by chance met Tomo on her way there. "You're really diligent, aren't you? What is it that you want to know that you have to visit the library often?" Tomo asked casually.

But for Tiara, that was not a casual question. In her muddled mind, she became suspicious. "Why did he ask? How does he know I'm often at the library?" Questions and suspicions filled Tiara's thoughts.

"He's an expert on IT, on AI. Could the sinister man be him? Could he have eliminated Nino?."

Tiara successfully regained her composure.

"How did you know I was at the library" she tried to sound as casual as possible.

"Well, you may not notice the similarity between me and the librarian. She is my sister, so I often go there though you may not know it since you're so absorbed in watching a film.

"She's your sister? Aah, after a second thought, yes you do look alike. Although she's much better looking than you.," Tiara joked so as not to sound too serious.

"Are you going there now?" Tiara asked.

"No, actually I'm going to my garage as I called it. I'm a bit bothered by the boy you mentioned. He should be on my data. Maybe the person who's in charge prior to my existence is not accurate or maybe there's a glitch"

"You won't be bothered if I tag along?"

"Of course not. Hope you won't be bored because when I'm working, I usually forgot the time and people"

"It's ok. If I'm bored, I will just leave without bothering you."

They both reached the garage in no time.

They entered a large room, filled with monitors, gadgets, and tons of scientists busy with their works

Tiara followed Tomo into another room. although the walls are also lined with monitors, there is no one here. There's some kind of robot in the middle of the room. Along table full of gadgets stands along the wall, facing the monitors. Tiara moved forward when suddenly she felt faint.

She woke up on the floor, with Tomo kneeling beside her. " How long was I out?" Tiara asked while trying to get up.

"Less than 2 minutes. Sorry, I forgot to tell you that this room has censors and to put down people if they had a chip, or anything unrecognized by AI."

"But I didn't bring anything," Tiara argued.

"True, but I've just upgraded the AI and if it thought that the person is 'questioning' something, it will also put the person down.

Tomo helped Tiara to stand. "Can I ask what you were thinking?"

"I was just thinking what a quiet place this is. I bet you can hear a needle drop," she lied. She didn't want Tomo to know her real thoughts, so she quickly blocked them. As she looked around, she became aware that she had been to a different room although everything looked exactly alike.

She decided not to ask Tomo, as she was concerned about why Tomo made her unconscious. Should she not trust Tomo? Until she went home, she haven't decided yet. She was still intrigued about the room. She was sure that it was different.

Not to the knowledge of Tiara, she was right. She was in another place. She was taken underground to Tomo's workplace, which looks exactly like a quiet room. Even Ryoma and Jun didn't know about this room. In that room, he managed to scan her, to know her thoughts, and whether he could trust her.

Who is the enemy?

Tension was in the air when the four of them met. Tiara tried hard to block her thoughts so nobody could read her. but Ryoma, who always has a watchful eye on her, knew that she is hiding something.

"So, what up with you?" he said, while not looking at her.

"Nothing, she said, "Why would you think that something's up with me?"

Ryoma said nothing. He didn't move one bit as he ask Tomo. "Had a good time with Tiara? I tried to catch up as you walked inside the garage, but I couldn't find both of you," Ryoma said as if accusing them that they were both up to something.

"Why didn't you call us? Or was it that you are following us? I think we have no obligation to tell you where we went since it's our free time. But if you must know, we were trying the new vessel, so for sure, you couldn't see us." Tomo said not even bothering to look at Ryoma.

"Nobody ask me where I was?" Jun chuckled as if trying to ease the tense atmosphere. Quiet. Nobody reacts. So Tiara accepts the bait and said, "You must be spending the whole day in your office, as usual."

Everyone then dispersed and after a while, Ryoma talked to Jun in his office.

"Do you not think that they're both up to something?"

"I'm sure they are. But I saw that Tiara has doubts about Tomo. As if she didn't trust him. So maybe the trouble is with Tomo. So I think that since you are closer to him, watch him," Jun said.

"You bet I will, and no one can escape by doing something behind my back." This time, Ryoma's tone was hard and sinister, thought Tiara as she overheard the last sentence.

As she usually does, Tiara spends another of her free day at the library. Only this time, she wanted to talk to the girl behind the desk.

"Any special topic you want to watch today?" she said. "Actually, I want to know about personality," and she had written 'Tomo' on her tissue and put it in front of her. The girl then wrote on the desk with her fingers, knowing that Tiara would be able to read it, 'did he tell you who I am?', and pretended to wipe the table. Tiara smiled in affirmation.

"Well, I guess that is in the psychology sector. It's P5007. Tiara thanked her and went to her favorite seat near the window.

Sometime later, at lunchtime, the girl approached Tiara. "It's lunchtime so we are out of the viewing, so we can talk. I'm Mika," she introduced herself. Tiara can see the similar Japanese features as Tomo.

"If Tomo told you who I am, then he must really trust you. He would never tell Ryoma or Jun."

As Tiara raised her eyebrow, Mika continued, "Tomo always has a feeling of distrust. Although he doesn't really know why. "

Mika continued, "They were the ones who started the project, then they asked Tomo to join. Not long after, you joined too."

Then she told Tiara that even though they have been working for a long time, Tomo still had the feeling that both of them are hiding something. Something dark. He trusted you but you doubted him, and that had him worried.

"Please trust him. Talk to him, only from your home" she said as the time was almost over and she had to get back behind the desk. Tiara then got up and

walked home, drank her milk, and prepared herself a big bowl of salad. She really wanted to talk to Tomo, but she knew that she had to wait until working hours are over.

Tiara rested on the sofa when she had the same dream. The dream is about the two families who escaped from the disaster. She woke up feeling that she knew both families. and a question popped into her mind. " Could it be that they survived the earth disaster? That they are survivors? Could there be others?"

Tiara looked at the clock, it was already 1 am. "Ah, why did I sleep for so long," she reprimanded herself. it's too late now to contact Tomo. Tiara hopes she can contact Tomo the next time.

But it turned out the day after and onwards were so hectic that it was even hard to see Tomo. "The advancement of the enemy vessels was fast so everybody prepared themselves according to their expertise. Tension was felt in every corner of the Place, especially at the Centre, as they knew what will happen, and what the consequences are.

At home, Tiara called her mom, wanting to be sure that she is and will be okay.

"Don't worry about me. I am safe. Focus, don't be distracted. Focus, and by then, you will unveil. Be safe my dear. Her mom ended the talk.

Tiara actually wanted to ask more, like what her mother meant by 'unveil', but she knew better. When her mom cuts the conversation, it means that she should. She was even more aware since she knew that she was being watched.

She tried to meditate, to try to remember her dreams, to try to understand the meaning and what the dreams are trying to convey.

The first thing that comes to mind is the family trying to avoid disaster. As she at last succeeded in focusing, she gasped. "The little boy looks like Tomo. Could it really be him?"

Her focus broke just like shattered glass. She tried to re-focus but was not able to put the pieces back. She put her head down, her hands cupping her head. She was mad at herself for failing. But she had no time to regret it.

A voice, which sounded like Tomo, could be heard. "Focus on the battle. Don't get hurt. Don't get distracted by the image of injured people. No need to help them. They are safe."

She was startled and also surprised. her mother told her to focus, and so did Tomo. Are all the people safe? How can he be sure?" Tiara had no time to analyze the meaning when she felt that the real battle was about to start. And she's still unsure who the traitor is.