Ross waited for Ellis and Meyer to turn the corner, causing a heavy stillness in the air. The only sound in his ear was the dripping of the color-dyed liquids from the scientist's desk. Dr. Soto's eyes changed from a passionate scientist to a concerned parent as he faced him.

This was going to take a while.

Ethan sighed and set Churro down on the floor. The rat jolted out of the room, knowing that his master wanted eyes on the two people that had just left moments ago. Knowing Meyer, she would show Ellis the training area, close but far enough that it would be difficult to run to them if they needed him. The freaks there tend to be too welcoming.

"So I heard the rumors about you," Soto said calmly, tapping the desk as if thinking of what to say next, "Ms. Crawford is rather… creative."

"Very. Though I don't think we should dwell on this issue."

"You really think this is solved?"

Ross paused, "no."

He knew the lies would surface again. Truth or not, people love drama. Most of the staff that heard the words coming from Crawford's mouth knew it was utter bullshit, but that won't stop the rumors from spreading to the students. Luckily, it didn't spread that far; at least, that was what Ross was hoping for, but hope and luck were stupid to hold on to.

"Good, because it got worse," Soto handed Ross his phone.

It was an article from an unknown news website about the academy and the rumors. No names were mentioned, but they were clearly talking about him. However, instead of one, there were now three students claiming assault. Great, just what he needed. Ross wasn't sure who could have done this, though it was apparent. Crawford was much more stubborn than he thought.

The last thing Ross wanted was to draw more attention to himself. He could toy with their memories, erase the gossip and pretend it was a dream. However, he already used it on Ellis, which was a waste. Ross would have to wait a few months before he felt comfortable using that spell, but the damage might be worse by then. Who knows how many people saw this?

Besides, Ross has more important things to worry about than his reputation as a fake teacher. Even if he were dismissed, another agent would take his place. Mariel would be fine. He'd always be there, watching in the shadows.

Ross gave Soto's phone back, "There are no names mentioned. They could be talking about anyone."

"It doesn't take a genius to know who they are talking about."

"You worry too much."

"If you're not worried back yourself, fine, but at least think about how this will affect Mariel."

"You don't think I thought about it? She'll be fine."

"Right, sorry," Sotto sighed and sat at his desk, glancing at the drawer where the cursed object lay, "I'll start extracting the plasma soon. Also, please be easy with the boy. It looks like he was about to fall apart."

Ross stared at him with a blank expression. He'll be just as gentle as the higher-ups were with him