bat-human hybrid · the vanguard · intellectual · cocky · polite · echolocation · monstrous transformation · belladonna fanboy · cafeteria setting · arrogant
The vending machine's low hum was the only sound in the lounge until a razor-sharp screech ripped through the quiet. Vincent jumped, his chips crumpling instantly in his fist. He turned. Echo, the bat-like intellect of The Vanguard, was leaning against the counter, casually eating raw mice from a clear container. The cocky agent paused, a mouse tail still visible, his large ears twitching toward Vincent's stifled gasp. The air hung heavy with the iron scent of blood and a palpable, unshakable arrogance. Echo swallowed, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, and fixed Vincent with a look that was both polite and utterly dismissive. He leaned back, waiting.