After learning about these talismans, I understood why they would be expensive, and why they were traded in secret. Though I still didn't know where ours was going to end up. I had a feeling we were not on the law side with this mission. We were doing a dark mission in the middle of the day.

Surprised at what we are trying to do, I try to keep my calm. Talismans seem like a great idea to grow stronger, and keep oneself alive long, but at the cost of putting a target on your head. Anyone with a nice one, is going to be targeted for sure.

Thinking about it, I guess there could be wonderful combinations between one's ability, and a talisman which could make an individual among the elite in strength. From Pixel’s ability to make the package disappear, wasn't sleight of hand. I was so wrapped up in my thoughts, I didn’t know that Pixel had stopped walking until I bumped into her.

We were blocked in an alley, there was a person on either side. We were trapped in the alley. From the hair raising on my neck, they were not passing by. This might be really bad news.

“Um, Pixel, what's the plan?” I whispered to her.

“Take one out, and run.” She replied.

When she finished her sentence and flicked her hand and a weapon appeared. A very sharp short sword. It's black as dark as her fur, lights flickering around the back of the blade, and the handle. She moves much faster, now darting forward charging the man in front of her.

Pixel jumps to the side as a flaming ball swirls through the air just past where she was, and scorches the wall in a blast of flames. I had to back away from the blast from how hot it was. As I flinched I saw the other man running up behind me. I charged up behind Pixel. I don't know if I can win a fight on my own.

Pixel gets close to the man, who stumbles backward, as she lunges at him. The man tries to twist to the side and dodge and avoid the strike. Pixel jumps away from him and strikes at his leg, slicing his tendons, causing him to collapse. Pixel dives into the crowd letting the sword disappear. I dive into the crowd behind her, following her. Our pursuers stop, too injured to chase after, and the other doesn't seem to be interested in hunting us down in the crowd.

“Seems Ares also knows about this. Good they didn't send anyone competent.” She chuckles.

“Why is everyone after us?” I asked concerned for our safety.

“Who wouldn't want free power?” Pixel asked.

“Oh, I guess that makes sense. What if it wasn't worth the fighting?” I asked.

“Guess a million questions should be your name. You're annoying by the way.” She responded.

I shut up again, following her. Eventually we made our way to building thought at a back door. A sly man was standing there. He looked tall and handsome. A kanine type of person. Very sharp and elegant.

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“Ah, Pixel. Just as always you're right on time. Pixel. Phoenix is as reliable as always. Though you guys could afford to lower your prices.” He chuckled.

“I could be less careful with your package next time if you wish to try to lower the price, old man.” She responded, flicking her hand and the small envelope appeared.

She flicked her hand and sent the package flying at him. Which he caught with a sly smile. Clearly they have worked in the past together. The older gentleman was wearing a very nice suit. He looked me over with his observant eyes. Like they could read me.

“Mmm, it seems you brought a new person. Hope this one turns out better than the last one.” He said, with a slight warning.

Pixel looked at me, and I looked at her and knew not to ask questions now. Remembering what Light said about Pheonix not retaining members too long. Guess these missions really could kill me.

The man tossed a sack of money at Pixel. Then waved his hand before heading inside the building. I turned to Pixel and walked over to her.

“So, who's the old man?” I asked.

“He runs the most expensive auction house in the city. Legal and not legal. If it's auctioned, he knows about it. Never piss him off. Do him some favors, could literally save your life one day. His name is Red.” Pixel informed me.

“He sure is big. You think anyone has ever called him Big R-” I was saying before getting interrupted.

“Carefull, you might cause a copyright problem.” Paradigm warned suddenly on my shoulder with a cookie.

“A what problem?” I asked confused.

“Oh it's nothing, just something about gum is all.” She chuckled and took a bite of her cookie.

I rolled my eyes, before I noticed Para just appeared. “Wait when did you get there?” I asked her.

“Oh, I am not sure. I just am here now.” Para replied.

I sighed at not getting an answer. I looked at Pixel to see what she was doing. Pixel was sitting on a bench counting the money before throwing the bag at me. I caught it, noticing it's a bit more loose than before. I am sure she took her share, but a lot is left.

“Is this for me?” I asked.

“Most of it. I took what was owed for those clothes. The rest you can have. Best to start a life savings early. Never know what day might be your last. So go enjoy your money. Just don't get ripped off too much.” Pixel finished with a wink and left.