The keys jangled as Alex tried to unlock the heavy wooden door while balancing his coffee, lunch, and the stack of papers he needed to grade. The door groaned as he pushed it open.

  “You sound like the students after a pop quiz is announced,” Alex said, chuckling to himself. “Although, I am the one talking to a door.” He closed his eyes, sighing to himself. Reaching over on the wall he flipped the light switch and the crackling hum of the fluorescent lights kicked on.

  Alex walked over to his desk and placed his coffee on his coaster. He put the papers next to it and walked to the mini fridge, putting his lunch away.

  “All right, let's get to work,” he sighed. Grading papers was his least favorite task as a teaching assistant. He much preferred to work with the mineral samples and set up the projects. For some reason he always felt more at ease when working with the samples. He walked back to his desk and settled in to start grading the exams from the day before. He was half way through the stack when the door groaned.

  “Office hours are from 3pm to 6pm.” he said without looking up.

  “Alexander Moorez?” said an unfamiliar rough voice.

  Alex’s head snapped up from the papers. Walking towards him was a tall older looking man and a woman with a slight frame. Both wearing identical black suits and dark shades

  “Yes?” he answered with a slight frown forming on his brow. What is this, a movie? He thought to himself.

  “Mr. Moorez, are you aware of the increase in devastating disasters occurring across the globe?” asked the female, her slight stature radiating authority.

  “I am aware,” Alex said. “Who are you?” he asked.

  “Mr. Moorez, are you also aware of the combined efforts of scientists and government agencies across the globe to try and combat these ongoing events on the planet?” asked the man with the rough voice, his hands folded in front of him.

  “I mean, I haven't been keeping full tabs on it or anything,” Alex lied. They don't have to know I have a whole murder board dedicated to this stuff in my apartment, he thought to himself.

  The agents exchanged a glance.

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  “Who are you?” Alex asked again, becoming uneasy.

  “I am Agent Chaemin and this here is my partner, Agent McGuinnely,” she said with a slight smile.

  “Okay, and what is it that I can help you with?” asked Alex, the frown etched deeper in his brow.

  “Mr. Moorez, your research has come up in our inquiries for scientists and academics to help with the issues that are happening.” said agent Mcguinnely.

  “We have reason to believe that you, your out of the box thinking, and your research would be a beneficial addition to our team.” said agent Chaemin.

  “You are asking me to join the World Earthen Research and Protection Agency?” Alex asked in disbelief, “Based on my research papers that I have posted?”

  “Well, your papers have influenced some of the projects that are being started. Your full cooperation would be appreciated in furthering our endeavors. Your extensive comments left on W.E.R.P.A. related research posts would suggest you are doing more than “just” following the news,” smiled agent Chaemin.

  “I guess I should have figured you could find all of that if you are here.” Alex mumbled embarrassed as he felt a flush of heat on his face. “But, I mean, I’m just a T.A. how would I actually be helpful to the agency?”

  “The agency is made up of all kinds of academics, people with 10 degrees and people with none. The only basis for recruitment is a person’s ability to evaluate the situation through both a critical and analytical view. The Earth is in turmoil Mr. Moorez. If we don't figure something out, we are all in trouble.” agent Chaemin said compassionately.

  “So, what would I be doing? If I were to accept this…position?” Alex asked.

  “First, a move to the agency's main research facility, near the capital, would be required. All moving expenses will be paid in full. The agency will also provide you an apartment on campus…”

  “A rent free apartment?” Alex interjected slyly.

  “Yes.. Rent free,” McGuinnely sighed, while pinching the bridge of his nose. “You will also be paid a salary for all other living expenses. You would be working daily with the rest of the team conducting experiments or research regarding new experiments. Long hours will be mandatory and possible travel required. Depending on the project or experiment that is being conducted, you will either be placed on a team or do consulting. That is, since some of the projects are based on your research” finished agent McGuinnely.

  “Not your first rodeo with that speech, huh?” Alex said. “I assume this is an immediate move type of thing?”

  “Yes, should you decide to accept this position it would require you to shut down your life here and head to the capital,” said agent Chaemin.

  “I see,” said Alex. He leaned back in his chair and looked at the pile of papers, closed his eyes and sighed. This is all I have wanted my whole life. To be part of something bigger. I feel like the Earth has been calling out to me for so long. Maybe it's time I listen to it, but all I know is here…

  “Alex?” asked agent Chaemin.

  Alex opened his eyes and looked at the two agents. “I guess the only question I have left is… where do I sign up?”