[center][color=darkgray][h2][i]Smoke[/i][/h2]Location: Middle Shopping Center[/color][hr][hr] [/center] [i][color=darkgray]"There'll be no need for that."[/color][/i] Smoke had been watching the situation unfold, and seeing the masked woman's response encouraged him to approach and attempt to defuse the situation. Although the happenstance before him seemed tense, Smoke retained his casual, carefree demeanor as he walked towards the cashier girl. However, he seemed to be quite a bit taller than he had been moments before, and was now at least half a foot taller than the masked woman. [i][color=darkgray]"Go ahead and get back to the store. And here," [/color][/i] He said to the small cashier, producing a stack of fifteen hundred dollar bills and giving them to the girl. [i][color=darkgray]"For your troubles."[/color][/i] He continued with a smile, waving to the girl as she nervously took the money and left. He then turned his attention to the masked woman, a glow emanating from his eyes as he stepped closer to her, the two now standing only a few feet apart. He didn't say anything for a few minutes, instead simply gazing into her eyes; the one uncovered at least. Then, with a smile, he spoke. [i][color=darkgray]"So I guess material goods isn't the best way for me to thank you, is it?[/color][/i] He asked, casually scratching the back of his neck. [i][color=darkgray]"Sorry about sending the girl, rather than doing it myself. Call me a romantic, but I've always enjoyed the Secret admirer approach."[/color][/i] He continued with a soft chuckle. He then picked up the bag filled with a dozen various dresses, and extended them to her. [i][color=darkgray]"But it'd be a crime to let these good dresses go to waste, that girl did have a nice taste. She's got a knack for fashion. Maybe you'd let me thank you, and apologize, over a nice meal? I've heard there's high expectations from the Chinese place in the food court."[/color][/i] [hr] It seems that Chinese wasn't in the cards for either Smoke or the masked woman as a green outline appeared around them. Smoke knew what was happening, and as they teleported into the train he instinctively stepped forward, keeping himself between the skeleton and the others. Turning to look at the strangers, he noticed that there were quite a few others in the train, and after sizing them up, he spoke. [i][color=darkgray]"Stay behind me. I'll handle this."[/color][/i]