Ezekiel spent the next few hours in the center, immersing himself in the vibrant atmosphere.
Despite the weight of the mission and the complexities of the organization, he found solace and joy in watching his little brother, Nathan, revel in the company of other children.
Any remnants of his guarded attitude seemed to dissipate as he witnessed the pure, unbridled joy on their faces.
The playful laughter and innocent interactions of the children created a temporary respite from the challenges that awaited outside the walls of the center.
Ezekiel, too, couldn't help but be drawn into the warmth of the moment. In the midst of youthful energy, he found a semblance of normalcy and happiness, momentarily freeing himself from the burdens of his past and the uncertainties of the present.
Xylia arrived later on, holding a few papers in her hands, and a genuine smile graced her face.
Ezekiel, still watching from afar while leaning against the wall, couldn't help but wonder why she maintained such a warm demeanor despite his constant guarded attitude towards her .
"Having a little fun?" she asked, her tone light and friendly, as she joined him by the wall.
The supervisors, responsible for the kids' well-being, seemed bothered by his presence.
Their disapproval was palpable, etched on their faces as they exchanged subtle glances.
He was the only adult among the kids, and it was evident that his presence didn't sit well with the supervisors.
There were over five supervisors in total, three women and two men, diligently taking care of the children.
Despite their displeasure, Ezekiel couldn't ignore the strength radiating from them when he measured their divine energy.
It raised questions in his mind about their roles, and he wondered whether they chose to be here or if their assignment was more compulsory in nature.
In the spacious room, housing more than 30 kids, all similar to Nathan in their extraordinary abilities, Ezekiel couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity and concern.
The older kids, those surpassing Nathan in age, were segregated into another room.
The organization's decision to separate them was not just for safety measures but also hinted at an additional purpose, a nuance in their powers or abilities that warranted a distinct approach.
Xylia, sensing Ezekiel's tension, suggested, "How about we go to another place? We still need to do a few things before you get assigned on your first mission."
Ezekiel immediately glared at her, a protective instinct kicking in. "And leave him here!" he retorted with a sharp edge to his tone.
"Yes, Nathan will be safe, believe me," Xylia reassured, but Ezekiel's gaze remained cold.
He cut her off, stating firmly, "I don't trust you or anyone with my little brother. If we have to go anywhere, then he is coming with me. Don't you ever suggest otherwise."
The intensity in Ezekiel's voice conveyed his unwavering determination to keep Nathan close, unwilling to entertain any notion of leaving him behind.
Xylia, realizing her suggestion had caused tension, bit her lips in frustration.
She then spoke, "Well, it seems like it's time. We have to go to the Doutixaw."
"The what?" Ezekiel questioned, seeking clarification.
"The place where you get your rank, Ezekiel. Based on that, you'll be assigned to a group and eventually missions," she explained.
Ezekiel waved to Nathan to join him. Nathan, though seemingly saddened by the interruption, stopped playing and obediently walked over.
It tugged at Ezekiel's heart, revealing the extent of the challenges Nathan had faced.
The ease with which he followed orders hinted at a past marred by constant control and suppression.
Ezekiel forced a smile for his brother and said, "Say bye to your friends. I'll make sure you get to see them soon."
Nathan, without turning to look at his friends, continued walking as if nothing had happened.
The silence that followed prompted Xylia to reassure, "Well, little one, I'll make sure you come to visit your friends. So, don't worry at all."
Ezekiel gently grabbed Nathan's hand, a gesture of reassurance, as they began to walk guided by Xylia.
Nathan remained silent, not uttering a single word. His demeanor, a mix of compliance and quietness, spoke volumes about the challenges he carried from his past.
The trio moved through the corridors of the Arcane Rebellion's facility.
—-
Xylia was the one who took them to the Doutixaw .
The Doutixaw stood on the outskirts of the city, hidden within the looming silhouette of an abandoned mansion.
The exterior of the mansion bore the scars of time, with cracked windows, ivy-covered walls, and a general sense of neglect. Its once-grand architecture now whispered of forgotten tales and untold secrets.
The atmosphere around it was tinged with an eerie stillness, enhanced by the distant echoes of the city's hustle and bustle.
As Xylia parked the car near the mansion, Nathan, still holding onto Ezekiel's hand, observed the ominous exterior.
The expression on his face remained unreadable, a mixture of innocence and the quiet resilience that hinted at the challenges he had faced in his young life.
The dilapidated mansion seemed to evoke a curiosity in Nathan, but any emotions he harbored were kept well-guarded, making it challenging to discern his thoughts.
Ezekiel, sensing Nathan's silent contemplation, squeezed his hand reassuringly.
" Don't be afraid, there is noting that could harm you when you are with me, Nathan , your brother is not going to let face any scary things " He said .
Xylia, sensing Ezekiel's apprehension, reassured him, "The outside may seem intimidating, but the real business happens below. Follow me, and you'll see."
As they descended underground, the ambiance transformed drastically.
The underground facility was well-lit and organized, betraying none of the foreboding atmosphere of the mansion above.
The walls were adorned with symbols and markings, indicating the secretive nature of the operations conducted within.
Ezekiel, still holding Nathan's hand, observed the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and wariness.
The air was charged with anticipation as they ventured further into the depths of the Doutixaw, where Ezekiel's rank and subsequent assignments awaited discovery.