Ezekiel's focus shifted from the sight of Nathan playing with other kids abruptly to a more pressing matter.
"The device, the one you mentioned my parents created to identify individuals with supremacy," he stated, as though snapped back to reality. His eyes bore a profound seriousness. "Could you elaborate on how it operates?"
Xylia met Ezekiel's gaze, recognizing the urgency and gravity in his question. She took a moment to choose her words carefully before responding.
"The device your parents created is a complex piece of technology," Xylia began, her tone measured. "It operates by detecting specific energy signatures associated with individuals who exhibit supremacy.'"
She paused, gauging Ezekiel's reaction before continuing. "The technology is based on advanced sensors and algorithms that can identify anomalies in the energy field around a person. Essentially, it's designed to locate individuals with supremacy."
Ezekiel's brow furrowed as he absorbed the information. The weight of the revelation hung in the air, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of unease about the potential implications.
Xylia continued, "Your parents intended to use this device to track and control those with exceptional abilities, believing it would give them an upper hand in this invisible war."
Ezekiel's expression hardened. " How do we stop it??"
Xylia drew in a deep breath before answering, "Stop it! I guess this is too early Ezekiel, we need more time. Our organization is actively seeking a method to do that. However, there's a challenge – the device is relatively new, and we currently lack one in our possession for thorough study and eventual counteraction.
It is still with your parents Ezekiel, the government didn't start using it fully.
It is remarkable ..for sure … Despite your parents working in the medical field, they hold a remarkably high position in the hierarchy, demonstrating unwavering dedication to eradicating supremacy."
Ezekiel just ignored the last expression .
"So, we need to get our hands on one of those devices to understand it better and figure out how to stop it," Ezekiel stated, his voice edged with determination.
Xylia nodded, her expression serious. "Exactly. Having a device in our possession will allow our experts to study its components, functions, and vulnerabilities. This knowledge is crucial for developing effective countermeasures."
Ezekiel's mind raced with thoughts of the risks and challenges ahead. "How do we even begin to find one? ."
Xylia's gaze hardened, reflecting a steely resolve. "We have operatives skilled in infiltration and intelligence gathering. Our network is always monitoring your parents' activities. It's a matter of time before we locate a suitable opportunity to acquire one of the devices."
Ezekiel's fists tightened with frustration. "How are my parents still alive to commit these acts? I thought the government knew about their actions, especially when they spared me instead of eliminating me upon discovering my abilities."
Xylia met Ezekiel's eyes, her expression sincere but tinged with uncertainty. "Ezekiel, I don't have any concrete information on whether the government has discovered the extent of your parents' actions. It's possible that their activities are still concealed, or the government may be investigating behind the scenes. The truth is, I don't have a clear answer for you."
As Xylia and Ezekiel engaged in their conversation, a guy approached them, exuding the familiar air of a fellow member of the Organization of the Arcane Rebellion.
His smile, initially bright, faltered when his gaze met Ezekiel's, but it wasn't disappointment; instead, it seemed like a momentary distraction.
"They said you're back at the center; you should have told me," he said to Xylia, his eyes subtly shifting toward Ezekiel as he spoke.
Xylia, perceiving the subtle nuance in his words, responded with a warm yet apologetic smile. "It was a last-minute decision. How did your mission go?"
Victor, as if eager to establish his position within the place, closed the distance between himself and Xylia.
Seizing the opportunity to introduce the two, Xylia gestured toward Ezekiel and said, "This is Ezekiel Cooper, a recent addition to our ranks. And allow me to introduce Victor Hamilton, an esteemed S-rank member."
Victor acknowledged the introduction with a nod, his demeanor portraying a blend of curiosity and guarded friendliness.
"Welcome, Ezekiel. It's good to have fresh faces around here. If you ever need guidance, feel free to reach out."
Ezekiel reciprocated with a nod, then chimed in with curiosity, "You even have ranks! I didn't expect that outlaws have ranks."
Victor let out a brief chuckle, his eyes reflecting a mix of amusement and understanding. "We might be operating on the fringes, but organization and structure are crucial, especially given the nature of our work. Ranks help us coordinate effectively and navigate the complexities of our missions."
Ezekiel furrowed his brow, absorbing this new piece of information. The notion of a structured hierarchy within an organization he had initially perceived as a group of rebels intrigued him.
Xylia, sensing Ezekiel's curiosity, added, "In our line of work, having a clear chain of command ensures that we can respond swiftly to emerging threats. It's a necessary aspect of maintaining order and achieving our common goals."
Victor smiled, his expression revealing a sense of camaraderie. "You'll be given a rank too," he announced, suggesting a sense of inclusion for Ezekiel within the organization's structured framework.
Ezekiel, maintaining a composed demeanor, responded with a simple, "Okay."
Victor, sensing a certain disinterest from Ezekiel, decided to address Xylia directly. Closing the gap between them, he spoke with a sense of urgency, "We need to talk right now. I only have a few hours before going on another mission."
As Xylia excused herself, she walked away alongside Victor, forming a striking visual contrast. Victor, a handsome and robust man of 20, towered over her with a strong build.
His features, adorned with pale skin, dark short hair, and intense dark eyes, exuded an air of strength and determination. Despite his physical stature, he appeared slightly shorter than Ezekiel.
The pair moved with purpose, their conversation shrouded in an air of urgency.
As Xylia and Victor moved away, before disappearing completely from Ezekiel's sight, she turned back and called out to him, "Please wait for me here, don't leave, Ezekiel. I'll be back in no time."