[rp] 🥒 キュー - your-shield

"Erm. This is Sinclair. Yeah, I've made contact with our client. Not directly of course, but I'm around..." The boyish young man babbled into his walkie-talkie, providing a long winded explanation to describe the fact he was in roughly the same area as his client but that they hopefully had not realized his presence yet. He shuffled through his coat pocket, producing a small notepad carrying mission details. He had read it at least a dozen times, and read it once more. Hired by a Gino... Client's name is Alice. A small girl... a bit shorter than me. Mission is meant to be covert... Sinclair dreaded covert missions above all, having to wear stuffy clothes over the already bulky jackets. He stood by leaning against a nearby lamp post, pretending to stare at a street sign and not his client.

“…” Boring rainy day, even more boring walks home. Well, not this time. Finally, the road home was paved with a small market event — Alice carried a white and pale blue umbrella under the light drizzle, staring at handmade clothes and purses stacked in a haphazard display underneath a tent. Am I really interested in these…? Mmm, Gino told me not to spend too much, and I need to save before my next recital. Anxious hands tightened around a bookbag’s handle. Thoughtful eyes scanned items, imagining them as new pieces in the limited wardrobe of a conscious young woman. She remained unaware of the pairs of eyes that watched her every move. That scanned her whereabouts, ensuring every step was safe while she engaged in a normal afternoon market promenade. At least, it was what was required of one section to ensure the backend of the client’s true request wasn’t compromised.

Attempting to avoid looking too conspicuous seemed to be an entire trial within itself. Trying not to linger in one place for too long, but still remaining in the relative area. He pretended to window shop, sit on a park bench, or watching pigeons walk about. Every so often he would steal a glance to make sure his client was still in the area. I was provided an estimated outline of what she would be doing today… but sometimes clients will veer from it. Please don’t make this difficult for me…

For now, her path wouldn’t stray. The directions given were rather thorough.

She tends to browse the market for 30 to 45 minutes, never buying more than a few items. Afterwards, she stops for a small meal before dinner, then walks back home, only stopping if seeing an animal on the way.

It was odd to receive such specific information, but it seemed like Alice had a lot of eyes on her protecting her from something she wasn’t even aware of. The Zwei just so happened to be part of the process now. She soon stopped in front of a small musical stand. Alice squatted down in front of an ornate wooden metronome, soon looking around anxiously to see if there was anyone watching her. She wasn’t aware there was, so to her the coast was clear. Gentle hands picked it up. She stood tall again, scanning its features and soon turning it on …I have enough at home, but this one is newer. I—is someone staring at me? I can’t look weird being so interested in this…

His gloved hands held each other while he stared at sparrows and other small birds hop around. Hm. Should I buy them some bread? They might be hungry... mm. There's no time to be getting distracted. I've been put on a solo mission today for a reason. I'm sure it means the higher ups trust me to be competent. I need to focus. He watch her ash colored hair dip down and stand back up straight. I was told she might buy something. Is that a risk? Would she be more likely to be attacked if she was holding something someone might perceive as valuable? I-I shouldn't get involved though... He held his communicator up to his mouth briefly, whispering softly into it. Client... is shopping. He was unsure if he had to report everything, but he figured an occasional update was best to keep those in charge happy.

After a few moments of pondering, the shopkeeper took note of Alice’s interest in the metronome. “Something pique your interest, miss?” “Oh, um.” Her head ducked down. She stared at the small golden needle rocking side to side, ticking rhythmically and matching her heartbeat. “…just this metronome.” “Well, let me tell you- unless you have a great deal of money, you might want to look elsewhere. It used to belong to one of the greatest pianists in this town, so it’s worth a pretty penny.” Alice’s face turned to a slight frown. Something in her wanted it — so, she quietly asked. “…how did you get it?” “…eh? Ah, some mister named Gino sold it to us.” “Gi…no.” Her face lit up. “Oh, Gino’s my friend! Are you saying this was his? then, why… would he…?” She tilted her head. “Is there some way i could put a hold on this until I get the money?” The shopkeeper seemed confused, and nearly upset at the request. “I don’t… see why not, but, are y—“ “It’s fine. I can return the next day with the money, just tell me the amount.” And so, a fierce negotiation began as the shopkeeper was reluctant to let go of such a valuable item, but Alice’s instinct made her desire it more.

Sinclair watched the bartering as it happened from a distance. He could see lips move and hand motions being made, but not sure what any of it meant. D-does this count as a conflict? Should I get involved? He felt his side briefly, feeling the extendable baton that was stowed away with the rest of the gear just beneath his outfit. Only for emergencies... He got up from the bench and pretended to contemplate a stall nearby, now in range to be able to hear whatever conversation she might be having with seller. If things get heated, I'll step in.

She kept the metronome tight in her hands as it felt like more eyes other than the shopkeeper's were on her. Alice spoke quietly, simply just wanting to take such a beautiful item for herself -- and, if it was true that the item was Gino's, maybe she was meant to have it anyways. I'll question him when I have it... "I-I'm sorry, is it on reserve?" "Not exactly, miss. It's just a really special item, so many eyes are on it, right?" "Right. Uhm, but that means--" "Just put it down-- here, there's another metronome just as beautiful!" As Alice's attention was brought over to the other wares, she hesitantly placed the item in her hands down before something shiny flew right above her wrists -- Fortunately, it only gently nicked the sleeves of her blouse, leaving the smallest scrape upon one of her wrists. The metronome, however, was dropped, the gold-tinted glass shattering upon impact with the ground. Alice stood there, in shock. "Ah--" "Huh?" "...?" "Ah--uh-- maybe that warning should've been listened to." "I... I'm sorry!"

Sinclair saw something narrowly whiz past. He wasn't sure what it was, but the shine of it and the injury it left on her narrowed it down to something sharp. N-Now? Here? In public? Not in a tucked away alley? He wasn't anticipating action so soon, but it was fine. I-If I can get her away from here for now. I can explain later. Sinclair moved to the stall with urgency. "Oh dear... M-most things in the market probably operate on a 'you break it, you buy it' ruleset? I-if I could be so forward... I'd like to pay for it." I'll write it off as a mission expense... Sinclair pulled out few bills from his pocket, and placed it on the counter of the stall. Immediately afterwards, he turned to Alice. "E-excuse me Miss. If you don't mind there's a small matter I need to discuss with you. It's about uh... Modelling! Yes! Modelling! I'm with a certain modelling firm, and you look perfect for our new line. How about we go somewhere else?" Just get her out of the danger zone for now...

Alice remained frozen still, but as she heard another voice, her head quickly shot to it. In front of her was someone likely around her age, suddenly blurting out that they needed to speak to her. "I, uh--" The shopkeeper sputtered. "A--Are you sure? That thing's almost a quarter of a million won for repairing it too, sir, that's no easy price, and no offense, but you--" "It's okay, if he can buy it, that's fine." Alice reassured. "I wouldn't be able to muster up the money quick enough--" Her train of thought stopped as Sinclair's attention became directed towards her. Modeling? What? I'm... She stared on, heterochromatic eyes wide and full of her lingering fear. Alice's meek voice spoke softly. "I, ah? uhm... I... mhm, okay." (edited)

"N-no worry! I-If that money isn't enough please contact my associates..." P-Please don't be mad Miss Faust... He pulled out a small business card, flipping it facedown to hide the Zwei Association logo on it. "C-come along then! No time to waste Miss!" He smiled awkwardly at her, before walking down the wide streets. Should I take her to a cafe? Would it keep us out of trouble? I mean... it's not like I can take her to a low population density area to discuss modelling. That would only scare her... I-I really don't know a thing about modelling... "A-are you hungry? I know a place we can stop for a treat while we talk." (edited)

"Ah? I-- I usually stop for food after, so that's fine. There's... a small delicatessen up the street that I usually frequent, since it shares its space with a cafe." Even with how much of Alice was meek and seemingly unknowing, she found a hint of suspicion in how close it was that she was essentially 'head-hunted' twice. However, the young woman kept quiet about it. Her body language gave away that she was still shaken up. Her hands were holding the handle of her bag tightly, knuckles nearly white from the grip. Alice's eyes remained widened too, although her gaze was focused on Sinclair. She examined his features, just in case he too ended up being an unsavory guest.

"Perfect! That's a good spot. No problem." Sinclair did his best to walk in a fashion that would allow him to intercept anything that might be thrown her way. The work he had done with the Zwei association had marginally improved his physical capabilities. Even if he appeared rather small in build, he was definitely much more able than he used to be. "So, uh. Lets get pleasantries done. I-I apologize for not introducing myself earlier. My name is Emil Sinclair. Just Sinclair is fine. And you are...?" I guess it happens we're going the same place I planned to go anyway. Funny how that works out...

"Ah. It's okay." Alice nodded, pulling a piece of her hair behind her ear. Her words came out quietly and slowly, as if a lot of deliberate thought were put behind them. "I'm. . . Alice." She extended a small, slender hand for him to shake. "Nice to meet you." She avoided eye contact with him, head turned slightly to the side as she stared at the ground.

"Nice to meet you too Alice." He extended a gloved hand to give her a brief shake. He didn't want to be rude, but stopping to give a proper handshake would make her a target. "It's a pleasure. I-I wouldn't want our potential talent to be tired before we got a chance to properly discuss business though, so lets hurry along to our stop." He did his best to stay cool, although the warm smile betrayed his actual emotions, which were of concern and panic. He suddenly found himself wishing Don Quixote was by his side for this task.

"Mm. Right." With the shake, she nodded and held her bag with both of her hands as she soon walked ahead to lead Sinclair to the cafe. Although she wasn't quite properly carrying her afternoon routine, Alice at least was thankful she was able to complete each step. She still felt bad about the metronome, wanting to ask about it and buy it. It was so beautiful... maybe Gino can take it back? I wonder why he sold it."

Sinclair was glad she was taking the lead, as he could easily jump in front of her to protect her from forward attacks, and still easily guard her blind spot. He had visited the café they were heading towards a few times before, but had never step foot into the delicatessen. I guess this'll be a new experience? He briefly examined the notepad that contained her schedule. Hm. Small meal? I suppose I ought to treat her to it then, on the guise of being from an agency... (edited)

Alice eventually found the place, entering through the deli's side. The butcher seemed to light up at seeing the girl, waving with one hand while the other portioned some meat. "Little miss Ivory tickler! Come for your afternoon meal?" "Ah, uhm-- Hilda! yeah, I'm just early because of--erm-- business...?" "No worries. The others will be happy to see ya. Tell Gino I said hi, okay?" "Mmm." Alice turned to Sinclair, giving a little nod and a shrug. "I come here often enough that they really like me here. Uhm... just give me a moment to fill out an order on this side before we can cross-over." Right as she did that, she took a small slip of paper before grabbing a small pen from her bag to write. After a moment, the slip was handed across the counter. "...Okay, we can go." (edited)

"Alright." Ivory tickler? That's a funny nickname. I'll ask her later. He scanned his eyes over the various portions of meat racking the deli, before entering the cafe alongside her. The café was fairly modest in size, but from the times Sinclair had visited he was well aware that despite it being small it was a wonderful establishment. After work treats always seemed to taste best here. "Lets sit here..." He directed her to a table at the corner of the dining area, hopefully keeping her far away from anyone that would do harm. "Business should be private, obviously..."

Once again, Alice was then recognized by the young woman who ran the cafe. She took a moment to wave briefly, exchanging greetings before quickly moving to sit at the table Sinclair guided her to. "Afternoon, Baby Grand!" "A--Afternoon, miss Lisa..!" Gah... it's embarrassing to be called childhood nicknames in front of someone who could be hiring me -- D...Do I even want this job? Either way, it was too late to back out of at least hearing his pitch. Alice dusted off the seat just before sitting down. Her shoulders got stiff, and she seemed to be trying her hardest to hide her presence. "Ah, uhm. okay."

Sinclair couldn't help but giggle a little. "I-It looks like you're rather well known in this area. Before we start getting into the uh... more boring stuff, it'd be rude for me to not treat you first. D-don't worry, the company will cover it." Sinclair could practically feel Faust staring at him with her cold gaze for using office funds excessively, but he had to try and save face. "I already know what I'd want to order anyways... so just pick what you like!"

"Ah-- okay, uhm..." Alice suddenly forgot her usual order. She took a few moments to remember, then blinked. "Oh, right. I usually get strawberry scones, their homestyle club, and ahhmm.... oh, their caramel cream latte." Saying it out loud made her feel sheepish. It was such a sweet meal, if she were to become a model wouldn't she need to cut down on her sweets? W--Wait, why am I even considering this?

"That all sounds wonderful. I'm a fan of the sweets here too... everything in moderation though. I need to be in good shape for my job." It wasn't a lie that the Zwei Association demanded a physically healthy body to ensure the protection of their clientele. "Although, I'm not looking to eat a full meal as much as I just want something sweet." Sinclair flagged down a server, whom flipped open a notepad as he approached the table. "Good afternoon, what can I get you two?" "I'll have a chocolate mousse and a small coffee with milk and sugar." "Of course, and for the lady?" Sinclair turned towards Alice briefly. "Go on, whatever you want. I promise it's A-Okay."

Quietly, she repeated her order, who seemed to note it before she could even finish. "Ah, right. That shouldn't take long." Alice soon ducked her head into her hands in embarrassment. Briefly, however, she gave a thumbs up to the server, feeling her cheeks get warm. Ahh... I'm a regular here, of course they know what I want... this is so embarrassing.

He smiled to her reassuringly. S-she is kind of cute though... I feel bad for lying to her. It's for the best though. "T-tell me about yourself, if you don't mind Alice? Just simple stuff is fine. Background information means everything in my line of work. You need to really know your stuff to make sure things go smoothly." He held his breath for a moment. "Modelling is a rather cutthroat business after all." More literally than figuratively given the situation... (edited)

When Sinclair spoke, she took her head out of her hands, then straightened her appearance. "O-Oh, okay. Uhm.." Truthfully, she did not know or remember too much about her background, but she was able to muster up just enough to not seem fully dull. "I'm currently a student at the music school on the other side of town -- uhm... I've won some awards for my recitals, but I also have some awards for my writing." Alice blanked out for a moment, her gaze seemingly drifting away. Quietly, she gathered her thoughts. "..." A few questions would better guide her line of thinking. As of now, she was just shyly looking on, a half-smile on her face.

"Oh? That's impressive! I-I used to play the piano. I'm definitely out of practice now... b-but I can respect anyone that commits themselves to music. Writing as well! Those are both super competitive fields! That's amazing!" He eventually realized he was rambling, clearing his throat and returning to a more professional attitude. "Mhm. So this is good though, an award winner. Not just anyone gets to be a model, so having something that makes you stand out is great. Pretty faces are a dime a dozen, but talent isn't as common." D-did I call her pretty? Aah... embarassing... w-well in this case it's appropriate, right? S-she is pretty after all... and models should be pretty.

"Ah? o-oh, thank you.." She got sheepish again, hiding her face with her hands as a light pink blush took over her face. Alice couldn't help but feel nervous at the interaction, being suddenly noticed and praised for her accomplishments was an unfamiliar feeling. ...Ah, but you have to decline, right? You can't study and be a model at once, I think. Mmm... I'd be killed if I took this without talking through it...! But, it's odd that ... this recruiter is so willing.

Before he could dig himself into this lie any further, they were interrupted by their server dropping off their dishes. Drinks and plates came out in front of the ones who ordered them, before the waiter merely smiled and nudged Sinclair. "Go easy on the poor girl, Sonny. The last thing you want is your woman to melt in her seat." Before Sinclair could object or explain the misunderstanding, that he was merely scouting for a model and not on a date, the server was already gone. He mumbled to Alice, abashed and face as red as the table cloth. "F-feel free to dig in... B-bon Appetit or what not..." (edited)

The comment made her blush a little more, but seeing her food in front of her seemed to make her calm down ever so slightly. "Mm-- ok." Alice quietly picked up the sandwich, eating it rather daintily -- as if she were a bit too nervous to dig in, or just someone who did not eat very greedily regardless. Bah-- I guess we could get mistaken for a couple... I wonder how he got this job instead of studying still... Would that be rude to ask?

Sinclair gently scooped up mousse with his spoon. He felt on edge for a thousand different reasons right now, so he was hoping the sweet tastes would help him relax. Why am I getting so embarassed... It's not like I know her or anything, I'm just the one that was chosen for this job. But she is cute... maybe... No! No! Don't think about getting a crush you dummy! Blödmann... "I hope the... food is to your taste."

After taking a bite, she put the sandwich down and covered her mouth with a napkin, swallowing. I’m . . . not used to eating with someone. “It’s the same as always; familiar, delicious.” Alice picked up the cup, sipping the contents from it with a half-smile. Do people do this often? Maybe I could ask my friends to eat lunch with me more. . .

"That's good..." Sinclair wished he could let his guard down, and enjoy this moment with Alice. Most times he's dining with a girl, she happened to be too excitable for him. But he knew trouble could be around any corner, so he tried to keep a weathered eye out. Should I ask questions now? Or wait till she eats? I guess a few quick ones would help. "Just a quick question Alice, how old are you? And if you're still in school, what are you studying?"

“Ah—mm!” Alice sipped her drink still, before putting it down to answer Sinclair’s questions. “Uhm… I’m 21, and… I’m currently studying in music education.” Humble desires of being a teacher, taking after her own professor — and someone else she couldn’t quite define yet. Alice went back to her food briefly, seeing if the answers were sufficient.

"That's wonderful... thank you for answering the question. If I have anymore I'll ask them as they come up." She's older than me... He went back to shoveling mousse into his mouth. He realized now, that due to his direct contact with Alice, it'd be difficult to communicate to the rest of his coworkers. Excusing himself from the table was not an option as it would leave Alice vulnerable, so he had to roll with it. Once she's done eating she should be heading home, from there my job will be done...

“Ah. Mmm… I have one question though, ah— you mentioned having associates?” She tilted her head just slightly. Alice’s expression changed to one of curiosity. “What… firm do you work for, if I may ask?” She could have asked before, but Sinclair seemed to be in a rush. Alice also figured it’d be a little rude to ask who he worked for so readily, but now was not a bad time. Suddenly, her attention fell on her sleeves as she awaited his response. Two small red lines were on the tops of her wrists, now lightly scabbed from such a minimal wound. Her sleeves, however, remained cut and imperfect — meaning a trip to the tailor was now on her future to-do list.

"Oh. My firm... o-of course..." Scheiße. Of course, his lie had caught up to him now. "My firm is named..." He scanned his eyes around the room, looking for an answer anywhere.. "Cut Cloth Company. CCC. The name is a bit strange, but I was told it means that we're all cut from the same cloth. A true star can shine from anywhere." Sinclair internally prayed that she believed him.

Somehow, Alice believed it. Her eyes seemed to light up from the explanation as she nodded along. “Aahhh… interesting…” No wonder I was chosen. Hm. Her gaze returned to her sleeves, but she tried to continue eating so her brain would be distracted. Ghh… it’s gonna be hard turning him down. He’s… kinda cute, and very nice.

"Mhm. I believe I have all the info I may need Miss Alice. Is there anywhere you're going after this?" He asked as they approached the tail end of their meal. If she's going home now, I just have to escort her and it'll be a mission success. The parting would feel a little bittersweet, given the small crush he had developed on her. But he would be at ease with the fact she was safe.

"...after this? I need to head home after this, I think. Mhm. If I'm home too late, I won't have time to feed Mirai, and he gets really upset when he's hungry..." She nodded with her statement, soon forcing the strawberry scone she ordered in her mouth. It was cooler by now -- Alice hated when she ate them fresh, as her tongue would burn. Another question would be posed, but she found herself blanking out on exactly what was on her mind. She looked to the wall behind Sinclair at a clock -- 16:13. Okay, I still have some time...

"Mhm. I see. In that case, if I'd be so rude may I walk you home? I've heard that things have been dangerous lately... I'd hate for something to happen to my talent before she ever hits the runway, y'know?" Isn't it weird for someone you just met to walk you home..? "O-or if you live far we can call a taxi..."

A--Ah?! I-i'm not even being given a chance to refuse... She nodded nervously, swallowing the scone in her mouth. "I live close, it's within walking distance, but, uhm--" Alice paused. "...You can walk me home, that's okay." Today's a unique day, I guess. Mmmh. When Gino gets home, I'll have a story...

"Wonderful... I'll just call the server over for the check, and we'll be on our way once we're done eating." Sinclair waited for their waiter to pass by them once more, requesting the bill for the table, whom happily obliged before disspearing to fetch it. "A-apologies for how abrupt everything has been. As I said, this business is highly competitive. If it hadn't been me, I'm sure anyone would have taken you!" Taken you or your head...

"It's... okay. Uhm. I understand, it's pretty fast-paced, mm." Just like whatever cut me... was there something important about ... Ah, I shouldn't delve too deep into it. Alice was thankful for the free lunch. She pulled her bookbag closer to her, then held one finger up before pointing it to the door that lead to the delicatessen. She left the table pretty quickly. I can't forget.

"O-oh. Alright." Sinclair had forgotten she had placed a deli order. Whatever it was, they could stop and pick up pretty easily. So after she gets her things, I think we're free after the walk home! Sinclair felt relief in his chest, from being free from this stressful mission.

After a few minutes, Alice had returned. She held a small opaque bag in her hands, but it was quickly concealed within her bookbag. "Okay, sir-- I think I have everything in order now. Are you ready?" As she pulled her bag closer to her, Alice stood tall. Even if she was of shorter stature, her posture was immaculate -- it almost made her appear taller than she really was.

"Y-yeah! Lets start moving. We don't want to get caught in the rain..." It had been raining lightly all day. Not enough to make going outside intolerable, but heavy enough to notice it batting you on the face and shoulders. Sinclair pushed his glasses closer to his face, and stood up from the table. "Ready when you are."

Quietly, Alice pulled out her umbrella to keep by her side until they were out. "I'm ready -- I'll lead the way, you can uhm... stay under my umbrella. That jacket looks very nice, and I would hate for it to get ruined, sir." Her voice was quiet and sweet, showing her genuine concern over Sinclair's clothing. You've already done so much for me, it's the least I can do to repay you...!

"O-oh? A-ah..." He began to stammer. What? Me? Her? So close? She's my client so being near her is a given but... He turned his head away to try and hide the blushing growing on his face, while he slid beneath the shade of the umbrella. "T-thank you... lets get moving..."

Alice nodded, walking Sinclair to her home. Usually, the path would be sunny and full of leaves blowing in the wind. However, with the light rain, the clouds blocked the sun and left a light -- but slightly dulled landscape in view. It was a mild gray haze she seemed to enjoy a little more than the bright sunlight. Alice kept quiet, just focusing on the road and how many steps it took them. She pondered the reality of that modeling job -- not knowing it was a fluke -- but something in her wanted to take it up just to remain in contact with Sinclair. ...Gino might not like hearing about it, but he doesn't have to.

It feels so awkward... we're so close to each other, but she's so quiet too... The journey so far felt dreadfully silent. There wasn't any words spoken on either side, and Sinclair felt more than flustered due to their proximity. Nor could he bring himself to speak, instead staring on at the path ahead of them, ocassionally looking back to ensure nobody was tailing them. I hope nobody gets mad I haven't reported back recently... last time this happened Miss Rodya lectured me for like an hour and sent me to buy donuts as a punishment... (edited)

Fortunately this time, there were no animals along the path like the case file had denoted. Alice eventually walked them to a moderately sized home, clearly showing the high status -- if the fact that the Zwei were hired in such a large capacity wasn't enough of an indicator. "We're here -- sorry I didn't say anything, I usually like to quietly enjoy the scenery when I walk home." Alice gave a small smile, half-bowing towards Sinclair. I don't really want to say goodbye yet...?

"I-It's not an problem. It was my pleasure, have a wonderful evening." He returned the bow as well before walking away. Wait! I'm forgetting something! He turned on his heel, presenting a bag. "Oh! I nearly forgot, I-I think this was yours? I'm sorry... but it's broken..." He extended a small bag containing the shattered metronome to her.

"A--Ah? Wait, you--" Alice's entire face went red. "Ahhhh... Thank you! It's okay-- I can get it fixed." She took the bag, looking into it -- just as expected, the glass was still broken, but it could still work fine. It'd just be a small repair. In a quick moment of excitement, Alice pulled Sinclair in for a small hug. "Thank you again, sir...! Have a good day." When she let go, she gave a small salute, not even giving too long of a moment for either of them to stew in the hug. She turned away and tried to get inside before she got too rained on. That might have been a mistake...

"Aah..." Sinclair was left a red similar to the strawberries in Alice's scones. When he snapped out of his brief stupor he turned away and marched on. He held his communicator up to his mouth, trying not to sound embarrassed over the line.

A-Apologies for my silence... Client has been safely delivered to their home. Mission success... n-no direct contact with assailants."

I feel bad for lying to her... I hope she wasn't too eager to become a model...