What is it they think I’ve done? he found himself wondering for the hundredth time as he rocked on the balls of his feet and waited for one of his superiors to appear and explain whatever it was going on.

They can’t know about my talk with Ate can they? And if they did, would they object?

Though extraordinarily mellow by nature, he found himself fidgeting and fretting as he cooled his heels within an anteroom. Finally, after what felt like ages, a slightly harried looking officer appeared and studied Haumea coldly, clearly sizing him up.

“Hrmm… Haumea, sphere of influence Plumeria. You show loyalty and a willingness to follow orders and I believe you’re affiliated with a tattoo parlor? You’ve been showing more initiative of late as well, very good. I imagine,” the man continued drily, “that you’re wondering why you’re here?”

Rather than risk possibly saying the wrong thing, Haumea nodded and stood at attention. His caution earned him a slightly amused smile from the officer as the other man moved to circle him.

“You needn’t be alarmed, senshi. This isn’t a dressing down, but rather an opportunity being given to prove yourself further. Of course, if you feel you can’t handle the assignment, I’ll look elsewhere…”

“Assignment?” Haumea couldn’t help blurting out. Flushing slightly, he did his best to remain still and as composed as possible. “What assignment, sir? I am happy to assist however I can.”

“Good lad. It seems that our esteemed General Queen Laurelite has brought about a conversion of one of your kind. However, in the process, the senshi had a rather… unfortunate accident and lost an eye.”

The officer’s mouth quirked a little at that and Haumea had no trouble reading between the lines. The senshi had fought and lost and been summarily corrupted. But to lose an eye? He flinched a little at the thought.

“Well, to make a long story short, we need someone to look after her. I believe that she’s approximately at your level of power, so it won’t be a case of you babysitting. Or not entirely.”

“You want me to look after this girl and see that she heals?” Haumea ventured to ask, wanting to make certain of what they expected of him.

“Oh, in part. As you know, the conversion process tends to… confuse one’s memories. We wish you to assist her in the transition. Answer questions, take her out on patrol once she’s recovered some of her strength. In short, watch her. Guide her. Perhaps assist her in finding a place for her new civilian identity. And if she begins to stray, we are trusting you to take whatever action is necesary. Do you understand, senshi?”

Oh, Haumea understood, all right. This would be a test of himself as well as this new girl’s loyalties. Huh, he thought dismissively. There was no doubt in his mind where he stood in this misbegotten war. And he’d make sure this charge of his stayed true.

“As I said before, sir, I’m more than happy to assist and flattered to be given such trust. May I ask what this senshi’s name is?”

There was no doubt that his ready acceptance of the assignment pleased the officer. Still smiling, the man glanced down to check his notes before looking back up.

“Eris, Senshi of Discord.”

For a moment, Haumea stood there blinking. And then, he began to smile and chuckle. Oh, this was going to be fun!