Shadows Lingering//A Glaze AU//Sequel to 'A Superhero's Heart'

3

Blaze arrived at the event, in a black suit and tie, wearing a mask over his mouth and nose to keep his identity a secret. Except, the mask was a little more casual. Instead of the steel-infused protective mask he usually wore, it was simply a cloth of black silky fabric that he wore to events that needed his attendance.
When he got out of the car, the young man grimaced at the red carpet that led guest into the building. It wasn't the fact that he did not look and feel great but, it was because the "charity" event was made a glamour show off. He wanted to avoid the pictures and just find his friends but, he was pulled in by some organizer that held a clipboard and had an ear piece with a microphone attached.

"Howler, so glad you could make it!", They exclaimed, guiding him towards the start of the carpet. "Just walk down there and make sure to- well, I guess just make it look like you're smiling."

Blaze actually thought the joke was funny and chuckled to himself as he walked onto the carpet after thanking the person. At least he felt it started off good. He posed for a few photos and did a small interview that bored him, even though he acted as polite as he could. It wasn't the people behind the cameras that annoyed him. It was the fact that they were asked to come...or forced to no less.
He finally walked into the building and followed signs that led him to a grand ballroom. The floor was marble tile and the walls dorned gold with tall pillars holding a ceiling of buttresses. It truly was beautiful, he wasn't going to lie. What ruined the image though was seeing the Ro'Meave family greeting people as they came in.

When Blaze first met the family, he immediately knew where Garroth got his appearance from. His father's skin was tan with deep blue eyes that was matched with golden blonde hair with some grey streaks. Garte Ro'Meave was the first to see him and the smile that was on his face faltered a bit before returning. He reached out his hand and said; "So glad you could make it this year Howler. I hope you find the event entertaining."

Blaze took his hand, shaking it firmly while replying; "It's always a pleasure."

What Blaze really wanted to say was "can I just send a check next year" or "hey I made-out with your son". Either one would've done the trick. Still, he kept it formal and greeted the other family members. The mother, Zianna Ro'Meave, had her raven black hair up in a bun that allowed more attention on her piercing green eyes. Her pale skin and freckles made her look younger than what her age was meant to reflect. The brothers, Zane and Vylad, just acknowledged Blaze as he strolled by.
He took a deep breath, knowing the hard part was over then searched for his table. He heard Laurance call out for him and when he turned to his left, he saw that him and his friends were sitting in the back right table. Even Washer was accompanying them. Shocked, he sped walked over and asked;

"Why are we back here?"

"I'll tell you all about it later,", Washer told them, seeing that Aphmau and Laurance were curious as well. "Sit down Agent Howler. Thank you for greeting the hosts."

Blaze nodded before taking his seat. The only downside of wearing a mask at this event is that he struggled to eat. He missed when his mask was just some paint over his eyes but, Washer insisted for something more protective. For some reason, that was the mouth but, Blaze at the time, being a young teen, didn't question it. If he changed it now, people would be able to put two photos of his blank eyes and mouth on top of each other to see his true identity or at least get a decent look. It annoyed Blaze...now he couldn't eat the whole event because of some mask.

"Do you want to grab some pizza after?", Aphmau whispered to Blaze, seeing his frustration, giggling. "Like last year?"

"I would love that,", He smiled under the fabric. "Agent Washer, would you like to join us this year?"