ZERO SHIFT

Back at headquarters, the corridors were quiet as Maya and Kyle made their way to their respective quarters. The tension from the evening's events had not yet fully dissipated. Maya, still processing everything, glanced at Kyle with a mix of frustration and curiosity.

"Kyle," Maya started, her voice measured, "why did you ask that boy to join you? You could've just let him go. The seal's locked up his power, and he doesn't even have the proper training."

Kyle, walking a few steps ahead, turned to her with his usual playful grin. "Well, if it's training that's the issue, I'll train him," he said, shrugging lightly. "And yeah, the seal locks up his power, but that rampage of his? It drew attention, Maya. The kind of attention that could've gotten him killed. Either we take him in, or someone else does, and they won't be as kind."

Maya frowned, not quite satisfied with that answer. "Don't you understand? That boy hasn't even summoned a Fullbringer yet, nor does he know how to wield one. He's completely unprepared."

Kyle's grin remained as he slid his hands into his pockets, exuding his usual carefree attitude. "Like I said, I'll train him. That's not a problem."

Maya stopped for a moment, her crimson eyes narrowing. "But what about the others in the capital? They had to go through intense training and unlock their Fullbringer before you picked them for Unit Zero. And the Elders…"

Kyle didn't seem fazed by her words. "The others will be fine. And the Elders? If they have a problem with this, they can take it up with me. That boy is under my protection now."

Maya sighed, rubbing her temples. She knew Kyle well enough to understand that once he made up his mind, there was no changing it. "I just hope you don't get yourself and the boy killed. You're risking a lot for him."

As they reached the doors to their respective quarters, Kyle paused, turning to her with a wink. "I won't, Maya. I'm one of the strongest, remember?" His confidence was unshaken, even now.

Maya shook her head as the doors slid open. "Overconfident as usual…"

Kyle smirked, stepping into his room. "Night, Vice Commander."

With that, the doors closed, leaving Maya standing alone for a moment in the hallway. She exhaled, trying to shake off the nagging feeling that Kyle's decision had set something unpredictable in motion.