My eyes pried themselves open. Little in lighting, the room was easy to adjust to. I spent a few seconds rubbing them and stretching, and then I became confused because my core wouldn't stretch like the rest of my body. My environs registered with me. I settled my arms on sturdy but soft armrests. I was still on the couch.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyeBrxhdOlc
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQF371ubL2x
"..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf0ndEYyIbs
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1q0n3G5PzN
I didn't know what to think of the situation. The moments before my sleep were hazy, but I knew myself well enough to construct the memory. I planted my face in my palms and groaned, leaning over.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOQYY14C3I
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaPaAkJGSta
"Damn you, Kenny. Damn you..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLiGjPpuMMf
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbSNdQ4jyo
I started rubbing again, but I stretched and pulled at the features of my face as if the action would shake away the shame. It didn't, though, so I stopped. I pulled my hands away from my head and stood up from the couch, looking around me.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLKwGNMaSm7
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrp8u9w7JT8
People were there, chatting. A few at first, but more as groups left the sleeping room and entered the kitchen. I hadn't even noticed them. At the very least, I knew why my awakening was so sudden. I would've laughed if it wasn't for the intrusion of my bashful dry throat.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU9d22GFJeL
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK0zp6hsYp2
"Crap."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6OYiRJRUnm
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUByPfgWPj9
I had to get a drink of water, and I also had to eat. I took a few steps forward, noticing how woozy my gait was. It took a great deal of effort to get my legs straight. Once I did, I shambled to the kitchen door but was stopped.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡclUIDm6n38
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuWA8KzXdpD
"Heya, kid. Good mornin'."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6RxmronrH3
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY1UwyVmIM0
It was a familiar voice, and the second-to-last one I wanted to hear at that moment: Juke's. His greeting stopped me in my tracks and jerked the sweat out of my pores. I turned to him, almost instinctively, and stared.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dxGQn4kdO
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVynDhfgHw
I didn't say anything, because he did first.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEaKcaQjsDj
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9cKNqa8vhe
"I just wanna apologize to ya, for, y'know. I was tired and loose last night, I had no business gettin' riled up at ya."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkMmc5cBfm
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXnqN5Y5OCH
"...Uh."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxSl1nrJG49
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyIbXkZylVE
My silence continued. It was for a familiar reason, but what caused it, wasn't. I didn't know what to say, to put it.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXSXe6fOJT
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHL5qeh5MBP
"Don't give me that look, kid. The last thing I wanna hear now is that I broke yer psyche."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ92IQ1px7Fo
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWEnv3viapW
"O-Oh, no, you did no such thing! Don't worry, uh..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZK1yxAcdj
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHEuVQ6dt5b
I stumbled over my words, and my destitute body made it only harder to utter them. I gave a half-assed attempt at composing myself and replied.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrUcWyrTrBF
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Wk5uaPfQU
"I appreciate– thank you, for the apology, but I don't think you need to do it or anything. Really, it's fine, no hard feelings."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnwTm0hmZr
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKxWmczaWqL
Juke's eyes narrowed, ever so slightly, delivering a devastating deadpan.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZX0DdCLBq
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLCalBrWN1k
"I don't believe a word yer sayin', kid. But if ya say ya accept my apology, then I believe ya. Now if ya don't mind, I'll go feast on the food they got 'ere. It ain't often I get grub for free."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSuJcYpyXl7
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZU1MjVq9QG
He said that, rubbing his hands together with a satisfied grin. Before he left, though, I felt like I had to say something.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsxD7kxxCS5
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDVF4HTNGaV
"W-Wait, Juke. I just want to say that, I'm sorry too."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBhnImaxijI
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3f4I5G7SaD
His smirk vanished, and his eyebrow raised. His hands were still together, though.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx04Woh6Z6U
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡomeIpu9V90
"What for? Ya didn't do anythin'. Relax, kid."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVizLSTOWXT
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkTOG5QsqF
With that remark, he started and finished his journey to the kitchen. I stood there, my body begging me to fill it with liquid, but I couldn't even move. Ordinarily, I would've lamented that; I was growing tired of feeling this way. But it was a different type of paralyzation. The type I'd imagine would happen, plopping yourself on the bed after a hard day of work.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFOs80mfLJ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPPjw1xNJRM
Though I couldn't agree with his words, their impact was undeniable. A weight was lifted off my chest, one I didn't even have the time to identify, and a smile found itself on my face.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmRojkVOM8W
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡThuHsdCiXD
It was still a challenge for more reasons than just my body, but I managed to step foot into the kitchen, granting my anatomy what it had been craving.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9GlXGam8Sa
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPckL2z0ANg
–209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnZZRAGv1i
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN16glTTVcd
–209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmDKtq1iZAc
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWPVLgDNtSq
–209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFvD9wLAAQ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiSfgdEPLNN
The room was crowded to a suffocating degree, as a kitchen of this size wasn't designed for the nine people in it. Despite that, however, I found a stool and countertop to have my meal, as milquetoast as it was. Milk, bread, and fruit. It was as I crushed that bread between my teeth that I met the second person of that day. It was a face I dreaded to see.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPTTfVG3Hy4
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnz9fNWWp8G
"Good morning, star child. What think you of the food in this humble residence?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo04rG8WGud
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lUVMguGqn
"...Trevor."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyZUrJWBWAb
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkAG3zfpBu5
The chubby man with a face too sophisticated for a place like this. That's what I regarded him as, but I didn't dare forget his rotten personality. Or, rather, what he did.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiMes3ofAe
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvjlSsoghP3
"Your eyes have lots of malice. What did I do to deserve such scorn?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfmE8UMpQi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL3g6ACqSpu
"Calling me a star child, for one. And, for the second, I'm sure you know."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡodT14sjG26
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8qM94enlX7
He chuckled, holding his arms behind his back.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ22ZFjwwBnq
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8rGSeLtM3
"Was it that little stunt I pulled yesterday? But does such an innocuous gesture warrant that glare?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxNbw09xiIN
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhi3lfrIuqK
"Innocuous? Anything but, Trevor. Anything but. And it isn't the gesture that matters, rather, the thoughts behind them."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnqd2GxYyD7
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKLqXYmCZQE
"Hmm..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCk9vSRjYQi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgkeHDMHjw7
He held his hand to his chin, lost in thought for a moment.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvxJUiNSLNi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr196DV60lp
"You're the type who'd frown at grants as a gift, aren't you?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzWzHsbxNJ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCcXvkS1fJK
"H-Huh? Do you take me as crazy!?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjYCkyuSgeO
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLGFUq63mU8
I nearly spat out the bread in my mouth, hearing such a ridiculous conclusion. Then, I realized what Trevor was doing– or what I suspected he was doing. I quickly cooled my temper, doing my best to ignore his snarky face. Though, it wasn't.
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpEkhIIvlI9
"My apologies. I had no idea my stunt offended you so. I, Trevor Eis Buster, offer thee, Kenny Buffalo Chambers, my sincerest apologies."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWUl1PWIATi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX2KloxvhS6
He offered me a hand to shake. I gazed at it suspiciously, darting my eyes to and fro his hand and eyes. Seeing nothing sinister in them, I took the handshake, and did it firmly.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAu1WkO7eu4
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTa7qymEmqb
"Now that we're at a clean slate, why don't you let me join your meal?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6IDCaIdcLY
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTXrtMsN6U7
"Not possible. I'm afraid I've taken the only seat."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXTjawyyWsr
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUY6uT2Hstk
"Are you sure?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQGEtTsd8Y
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9or4cpX5D6
He leaned his body sideways, dragging a chair in front of him so conveniently placed I was sure he materialized it. I sighed, realizing that this was a man incapable of taking a hint. It wasn't worth, nor was the situation appropriate for, all the fuss.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHOVcP4S1sj
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsAteRNgIbG
"So, returning to my first question, do you like the food?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMOMPr4Zqi5
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDaygiRIK2T
"It's fine," I muttered with a half-full mouth, "I'm used to higher variety. And, well, something that was prepared by someone."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHZwwZjWOFC
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1gE5fuEqB
"Ah, a child of higher class, I take it?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVT0qiD1bp
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNhAZgvY8J
"No. Not at all. Why do you jump to conclusions the way you do?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWDGLFotYm1
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKhEC9U0QWH
"Indeed, why do I? Perhaps probing for information this way is just how I fancy spending time."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1cJSHHuNcm
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8C5w9zMXk
I took a sip from my cup of milk.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBrktGQSeC
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwzpwg8b8Ml
"That sounds rotten. Befitting of a fellow like you."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMCK8cD03IT
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnZdnCUVpW
"It would appear that we aren't on a clean slate at all..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJiyE3APk6P
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqBrz7mGHG
I paused my hand, mouth agape and ready to take a bite. His words suddenly struck me, not because of their merits, but because of who they reminded me of. A kind girl who likely would've rebuked me in this situation. I sighed again and rubbed my temples.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhKWNfHOcxX
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9OFMuoNuLc
"Fine, I'm sorry. I'll do my best not to hold it against you."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqIgOlYjzjv
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLoBLIeUpao
"Excellent!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTKFbxgCDXo
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZOpvBm21fH
He clapped his hands so quickly that they looked like fluttering wings. I ignored the gesture, as I didn't want to regret my words that soon.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf6Mt9PawIC
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnEbieQMViJ
"I say, child–"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4z2NgJXWQ7
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHXlYKzNRO
"Please, start calling me by my name."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Q84I8eQsE
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8wO8Ck6cC
"Right. I say, Kenny, this food may not be delicious, but it's familiar. Who on King's Peak hasn't had a meal of milk, bread, and a random fruit? I find it comforting, something I sorely cherish in these moments."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dfcaah0et
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv0c6RBdhP4
"Maybe so. I would prefer something with meat, however. Wouldn't an increase in protein before a big battle be best?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR8399itE00
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDzb6YtFSaw
"Maybe, but that would risk an armada of stomachs too full."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5NW66rRNp8
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0oGYHuTwZY
I looked at him with a face of perplexion.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡejj1mZDKH3
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEwNpi9H4vX
"It wouldn't. That would only be true if we were being served a grand feast. If I was holding the leg of a chicken instead of a piece of bread, what difference would it really make?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNhzGEkjj6z
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrQL89qSlfy
Trevor's grin curved up to an uncanny angle.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWR3Zo2ge1
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlhWzEB4KOH
"Why, of course, you're right, aren't you! Haha!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2bdXKl3QKa
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvWwkdM1BcT
I realized then that, this was a person I simply didn't jive with. The smartest course of action was to finish my food as quickly as possible, excuse myself, and pray that he wouldn't follow me.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3BMoHkFaZh
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy66lGymqvG
"Say, Kenny. Are you afraid of the upcoming battle?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSAjwgYYTv5
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUAMZNpW5q4
As I formed my petty plan, he fired a question from the blue, one so sudden I nearly dropped the pear in my hand.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80ZDsSviKB
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWZLFFif5Fe
"That's... a strange, but silly question. Of course, I'm afraid. Isn't everyone?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8IpSxBAZX
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIOKEns8qYC
"Indeed, everyone is. Good. Say, Kenny, you're a powerful fighter, aren't you?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiGlwZ1ywxE
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3iquJRKZWh
"No. I don't believe I am."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY6VhdDmESt
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvSsEuWEcnE
He put his hand on my shoulder. The air thickened. The presence of this man muffled the chatter of the room.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkHBGtgAjF
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ00P7fI7j6n
"Don't be modest. Perhaps you lack experience, but anyone would at your age. Yet, at your age, people speak of your power, of your potential. Bison Frost, they call you?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTJGyZ97iQi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDx2nqEDY0z
"...How do you know that name?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9NmYWmhSWy
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSp7bqoFL3w
He smirked. It was a smirk, not a grin. I hated it even more.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4IeoFM7cUi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡodXnDQGhyd
"How do you know that name–"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX82mTwi77x
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHEdr4m7tf4
"I have no doubts that you'll survive today. Someone like you, one who is feared and powerful, one who sits and stares at walls as others chat and bond, you're meant to survive. But in case you don't, I shall make my offer now."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPhi0s7KaHw
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYGP2XnW6G
I wanted to make a rebuttal, or at the very least, yell 'no' right at his face, but I couldn't. He leaned in, whispering into my ear.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLNHVVK8TGM
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAOvmzLYP88
"Afterward, whenever possible, find a place called Hatch Cabin in the Rocky Ring."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3hqYhgWUy
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpn0gRgKZDp
He pulled away from me and patted my back with a smile.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY22GrYEU6P
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOAUPyVCzy
"Oh, and I apologize if I frightened you. I need you to understand that I'm being serious, you see."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbyqG89P9YX
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtXaF25VERk
"...Right."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ11IDdnrgAu
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJavbEhRIil
"Now, I'll do you a favor and leave you be. Not like you'll be here for long, though."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoislgcHZrG
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjAUVaznpC
He stood up and began to walk away, but before I let him leave, I called him, as I was hung on the last thing he said.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8tJ1ojzfRu
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbZPu2vRmH1
"What do you mean I won't be here for long?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5dTafYc7MZ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz0dHQgyIKg
Assuming what he had said before, I thought it was a sinister, foreboding remark. Maybe some audacious attempt to predict my fate, or some vague remark designed to hassle me in quiet moments. He turned his head back to me with a surprised expression.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkl4ycRHIWx
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoDQf8ULCRC
"Haven't you heard? The other camps learned of our change in strategy. We're mobilizing to fight."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn567hFMK9v
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIk8XlG5EI
"What!?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1TwH1xDiM
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgSKlkNWMP
–
–
–
I felt like I was pulled away from the kitchen by an invisible force, though it was my hurried legs that brought me to the center room. I didn't enter yet, as I made sure to wait for a decent crowd to form first. I waited as I sat on the couches, observing the Retaliation Crowd as they made their way. I waved at Juke, and when I saw Rover, I did my best not to hide behind the sofa. To my own surprise, I succeeded.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgzKI8jpSEJ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLaJSMC0Cca
I didn't relish that little victory for long. When enough people entered, I hopped off the couch and made my way into the room. Lola's stature was noticeably different. It became quickly obvious that she was on some type of stand, and with Dave and Pars at her side, she was a gallant sight, demanding attention. With a radiating smile, she opened her mouth with a boisterous tone, voicing a speech.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQ87zEWdCP
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmlNyQMEnE
"Friends! Allies! Neighbors alike! Hard-Bringer has infested this wonderful city, and it is time for us to weed them away! With nothing else to do but fight, fight, we shall! And with the will in our souls and strength in our limbs, we'll win!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtUbbnrXPLa
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz59SrdAE85
HURRAH!209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjBvrtTxv3D
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZU2yL62LzB
The ensuing cheer was deafening, but I prepared for the volume by holding my hands to my ears. Her speech was short, but invigorating, and the crowd rallied even tighter than before. Though a part of me questioned how genuine their reaction was.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ1Mv2cWT9l
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcINVnjb9Dt
"As we make our way outside, we shall form groups of two. Join with who you've been assigned with. The same applies for our three aides. I'll be the first to leave, as I have to regroup with the second camp, meaning I will leave leadership of this camp to Dave to my right, and Pars to my left."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6yrC8wXtHz
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmSOZoVlUMf
The two men saluted, a gesture showing their enthusiasm for their new role. However, I was more pressed with another thing she mentioned; it was something about 'three aids,' if I heard her correctly.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtWOGKGco2o
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqr6bVcrKJU
"What does she mean by it applies to us?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcQYGWcq7yD
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ71udmW77CQ
My memory stored no recollection of being placed in a specific group, because no such event happened. Panic flooded my consciousness, but a familiar voice assuaged it instantly.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEEosWulcA1
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTS8NJucGYW
"Looks like yer gonna team up with me, kid."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oeovIGQqc
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Fa00TQYEQ
Who else but Juke? I spared him a look and did nothing more but firmly nod, returning my attention to Lola. However, she wasn't there to return my attention to. Dave now stood where she did, holding a clipboard in his hand.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3CyRsItrB
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0DjAC6QIbF
"Hello, everyone. I am Dave, and though I have no affiliation with this group, I have worked as a City Officer before, so please don't be so quick to doubt me. This man I begrudgingly call my colleague, Pars, is here as well."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI9MTl3N7By
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpEDx1A2mTt
"Hey everyone!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyQ4RUvslus
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLHjpiUJYhi
Pars couldn't help himself but to wave. Many members waved back, and some even returned the salutation. It made me realize that many people here must've known the man personally.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMc5uZ17xN1
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPNqTsx8IKM
"We'll leave the building in an hour in waves of one group, arriving at visible checkpoints. The group at the checkpoints will nudge the subsequent group, and so on and so forth, creating a disconnected chain. We'll be moving this way to avoid being spotted. As most civilians will be indoors, the streets will be empty, and we'll have to enter and exit them quickly. Does everyone understand?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBJRj2yabm
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2tn1saOvLE
The crowd collectively gave a resounding affirmation. Dave swung his arm wide across, opening his mouth to return the cheer.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4wVCb5iiNO
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyeoNdAvANs
"Then meet back here in an hour! I better see every face here again, or else I'll get Pars to mound you into a ball of dirt!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ56LbuOqZvF
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGQ5oVPSCX
*HURRAH!*209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBSqxHT9u1
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkGmyAAJN9I
"Y-You need to cool it with these jokes, Dave. Why me, anyway?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQo0nDlKPBg
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY7htAyqUWp
Despite the ominous threat, the room's enthusiasm took no damage; in fact, it looked bolstered by it. The fervor by which Dave said that made me think he was serious, and the reciprocated energy hammered that idea into me. Only for a moment, of course.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnA4WPeulGY
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlTAPWueRBR
"I'll be in the conference room. Should anyone need me, I'll be there. Pars as well, though he won't be of much–"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8psFiVzaFZ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1cPaTFmGvm
"Alright, enough of this," Pars interjected with a jaded voice, "I can't believe I'm being the voice of reason, but I can't take belittling like this in front of my coworkers. Anyway, if you need us, we'll be in the conference room. Just don't go in asking us to unclog any toilets. Pack what's necessary in the meantime, since we'll be relocating after the fight. Your luggage will be taken to a parking spot. Will it survive? Who knows! That's for fate to decide! Now scram, make yourself busy!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhIsAmcPnF
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRD6OTQyVy
And as if his words were gospel, the Retaliation Crowd dispersed from the room in a flash. I stood there, still as a statue, reeling from the speed of their escape. It didn't take me long to recover, though. When I did, I put a finger between my teeth and began to nibble.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7xJjHgUFxE
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUT3XVjMufK
"This squad behaves like a bunch of weirdos. I'm glad I'm takin' the job with some level-headed people. Don't ya agree, kid?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtiLScKGr9
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ54stFIGP9X
"...Hey, Juke, you and I will partner up, yes?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5RnPLk3UwB
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡodf3ng2pB0
He tilted his head and nodded shortly after.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwQWqA1TWy3
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUdpmFEynQ5
"Ah, that's a relief."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ2aoEh2Rqk
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmQFnqr7vp
"Looks like ya do agree."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbHG9NeEBaP
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPYaWPhhC48
"No, not because of the hogwash you're saying. I just, when Lola mentioned us three, I thought about being teamed up with Rover, since I wasn't informed about teams or anything."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYqf8aGJduz
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsEF9h5znjg
I grabbed my shoulders with my arms. I didn't shiver like I thought I would, but it still made me feel more comfortable.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlHaQiICQWM
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWXtEnjZPFd
"I don't think I could've handled being with Rover. At least not yet."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡztrcfbRF9Y
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhMtbCdCzVE
"Eh? Handled?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKTnfALKN5
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXTpfCQ55WO
I held this posture for a little longer, staring at the door leading to the first floor. It was the gateway to this whole operation, unavoidable, even if I wanted to bail. I found it fitting and oddly encouraging.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoNTDYsLeLw
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMbeWjRsrF
"Hey, kid, yer scared of Rover, aren't ya?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGMeriuv4x
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCPNT9Hfexo
"H-Huh!?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0wlzfXXjQk
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTDuP6LCz2
My attempt to psyche myself up was demolished by Juke's unprecedented remark.
"S-Shut up! There's no need to point out the obvious! Anyway, let's concern ourselves with packing up first, we're on borrowed time!"
I rushed to the door right after, but I didn't open it yet. I had my hand on the knob, raring to twist and turn, but I had to wait for Juke first.
"What's the hold-up? Come on, it's like I said, time is limited!"
"...Heh, say kid, did ya ever fight with yer parents? Maybe yer older brother or sister if ya had any?"
I paused for a moment but continued my frantic yelling shortly after.
"That isn't important! Come on, we need to pack!"
"My bad, my bad. Yer right, let's get to work with it."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJkRLsbtwVj
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtR1OP3TXSW
–209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUM7mDFAHHv
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSQLL68aLJs
–209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGijIqSUyST
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPQO7QfZsb
–
One deep breath followed another, a sequence not dissimilar from walking. People walk to reach destinations, and as easy as it may come, it's an intentional action. It was the same here. One deep breath followed by another, with jittery limbs as compliments.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5BDebIcIY0
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFpoTIlJJ2
I slapped myself on the shoulder, moving my arms to tire them, so they wouldn't tire me. It wasn't enough, so I sought a different distraction.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMSZ8vigfx2
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHO40dAa48c
"The bag still has potions in it, right?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBIqiGFSSs
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3b2OUAEE6N
"Yeah, I can hear 'em sloshing in there. Do ya remember what they are?209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9niVPydxbJ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdKdRQ2X6I
"Honestly... I can't say for sure, but they're either energizers or healers. I don't make weapons. Let me take a quick look."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMzbum5E33H
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYw6HTcf9Xk
"Can ya do it quick enough?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1nXkxbqeU
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd2GIw5b87m
"Yes, we're in the back of the line."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwye9KWPhZH
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Acp9PqyyU
I opened the bag and sifted through the contents. There were only two flasks left, but both were green. My memory didn't serve me well.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAenoKxxwra
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCrO2Pml6GL
"Ah, right. If I had an energizer, I would've used it earlier."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAVKY16FZ7X
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJvoead70h
I carefully lowered the flasks back into the bag and zipped it shut. Looking ahead, I was shocked by the distance between us and the stairs to the second floor.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBTShBYy2M
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1EOIjjjE7
"We're comin' up soon, kid."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOoptuIAAA2
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV1rlqEEAz3
"We are, it's too fast. It's a bit much."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBiIit0T04b
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPcNM0LKrD7
"I can't lie, I agree with ya. Most I've dealt with were crooks and monsters. That probably goes for all the weirdos in this city."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYaC3DD64Mn
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo2bpQmU6Pw
I nodded at his statement, and then what he said registered with me. I refrained from making any comments about it since starting a little argument was the least appealing prospect at that moment. Though, when I thought of the alternatives, being stressed about the oncoming situation was equally unappealing, and I grew weary of its frequency. So I made a shift in topic.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzFaLgh8EEZ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYGuTFF9EV
"You have your helmet on again, and your shirt-cape, too. Is that your idea of battle armor?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8oBvu2jgPz
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaOAnCHfRLW
"Ya could say that. Wearin' what's comfortable just makes sense when my helmet is armor enough. What about ya, kid? Is that coat the only thing ya wear?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAvqezAMIS0
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxsDIsr25r
We took a few steps forward.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJnCyV3xbEk
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3P1EoHk0UX
"This coat is the only thing I have, frankly... and it means a lot to me. It's saved my life before as well."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtmOv3EqSVg
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ93wDb8IH5w
"That thing saved yer life? Did ya live in the Frost Ring before, kid?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡknq77KGs9E
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiI5BaQa1qS
"What? No, don't be ridiculous. It has magical properties, that's all."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIuF3qnQofH
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLJygimaa1
We took another set of steps forward.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ujXkdPnYr
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTLfu4yVecH
"I've heard about stuff like that– magic defense in coats and shirts. Shit's crazy to hear. Did ya imbue that thing yerself?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbp9UtWPRu
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhincWRmC4
"No, my– Annabelle did it. She's something like a guardian to me. I have a lot of respect for her."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhWwLYNRImQ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJvDcy2lDhe
"Apples don't fall far from the tree, eh."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡULsJxSKooz
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaOGZeHAn3E
"That proverb only works for blood families, you know. I can barely do mana suspension anyway."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSoThqC9pa3
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡypJwTqM5Qt
Another set of steps, and those were our last. Now we stood before the stairs completely. There was a man with a cap, getting ready to help the group ahead up.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeIJsqlziEx
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnnqpofPKgc
"I'll be with you two soon. Wait here."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOT6shPmKx6
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMH3RXfoDEm
I nodded in reply. The man walked up the stairs, leaving me and Juke alone. Filling in the silence, I asked him a question similar to what he asked me.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA4rw05KVvN
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMYGp3C1Va1
"...Is there any reason why you picked that helmet, Juke?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTwbbKG2lN9
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfV4ax3KbZu
He chuckled at my question. I flared up for a second.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgmHLPIEwQi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlIwUjwKxLQ
"I ain't so sentimental, kid. This was just the next one in line. I use 'em up pretty quickly, cuz I can't unbend or fix 'em by myself."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbO2iHbx187
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNurSjbf5D
He pointed his finger at a certain part of his helmet, and I noticed the way it curved inwards. It was so blatant that noticing it now made me feel stupid.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7B0PeEnaJk
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBulg7z7CvM
"They're gettin' expensive, kid. It's one thing if ya buy a helmet and it breaks in a year, but I need a new one every damn week. My Endowment is almost a curse, heh."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡunXpBvK3fI
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQEdvfhKqz
"I'm somehow surprised you didn't admit to stealing them."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjGnsOSErWi
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcUt4Fs7W2i
"The hell do ya take me for? If I wanted to be a bandit, I'd be one. I'm shrewd enough, and I ain't helpless. I just got too big a heart for it."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9i9arex1QH
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcr8A61vMAi
"You're right, though that isn't a high bar to reach."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxYz9y3C4bV
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtuJWmCrtoi
"Ya ain't wrong, kid."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3DL0EkFpwB
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtuqqenDjmN
"..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7rqza4ysOh
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaCXKPwKzsh
"..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV4GdmfAZgs
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dgQVwcjxt
I had my eyes glued to the stairs, peering at the door on top, waiting for it to open so we could be told to move. In that gnawing anticipation, I found comfort. There was solace instead of awkwardness; a deviation from the standard, and though it was jarring, it lit an ember inside my chest.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFtjW6KOOud
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5FIxq6kB9R
"I wonder if I'll see Dennis out there."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqPlKNSpOC
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnRZWpSa9A
"Huh?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFcNnnu9Zik
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfJQSi8jcj
"Don't ya remember our coachman? That's heartless of ya, kid–"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbH3OjBxlZR
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5f1BnoMYn
"No, I remember him, but... oh goodness, I did forget about him."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkpFhQgEJN8
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcPQKHUtjHY
Juke had a hearty laugh. It mocked me.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcxrnAFOwaz
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5HEJVtNMhY
"No shade from me, kid. Yer head's in the right place. Me? I'm still thinkin' about how much I hate being here."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Vi1YiHHAB
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKvIufvQs0
"How can you say my head is in the right place? Do you have any idea how much of a mess it is?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX76MMhVQpk
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxtpOtaV4n0
Then, the door sprung open, and a foreign light illuminated the steps. The man exchanged looks with the two of us and motioned with his hand to rise up the steps. Juke took a step forward first, and I quickly followed.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY3IGiOxmhU
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡse1IIwr4rh
"I guess," Juke started, "with shit like this, Anywhere in the head is the wrong place."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTglr7kuG7X
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3dKdni6yjO
"...What?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzg4EBKo68D
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjABYd1HvNJ
"Ya heard me."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY1IhJaIUhs
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP9cYXuCtZK
As we ascended the stairs, he gripped the hilt of his blade and balled his other hand into a fist.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmVpul5irH5
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDiKHO5YjCp
"There ain't much use thinkin' about it. Let's finish this."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh1jAqYEvuJ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ038UbVh6PF
And as we made it to the top, we initiated our part. Though he raised questions, Juke had a point: now wasn't the time to think about the situation, it was the time to act on it.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMyqb6c8uk
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSWAR1HlTA
I took a deep breath and raised my right arm, letting loose the tendril that laid dormant for what felt like weeks.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkoIypMQKor
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNrAIxcHoWm
–
–
–
We arrived at our destination too quickly, and I couldn't tell if it simply was so, or if my mind perceived it that way. We zigzagged through the streets and into alleyways, peering around the corners and hiding any time we saw a group of Bringers walking by. The process wasn't dissimilar to Juke and mine's time before meeting up with the Retaliation crowd, but the sense, the atmosphere, was different. The threat of being found was exacerbated by the need to conserve all energy because the fight ahead demanded nothing less. We scraped by without being spotted, and we found ourselves before the base of the Foreign Pillar. Juke and I were in a hallway with the rest of the camp, chatting with each other, easing the nerves. I saw some familiar faces wearing expressions that made my brows sweat. Nigel, Trevor, and the man with Nigel I forgot the name of, talking with nervous smiles and lumped throats. This was the deciding moment, not for the battle, but for myself. With all these pressures clawing and maiming me, did I still have what it took to move forward?209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9zvXT04x6
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpy3Qjal8wY
"...We're going to do just fine, aren't we, Juke?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrOmk6AjHRX
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPkSFuBz0dc
I confided my worries to my friend and ally, who sighed. I wondered if he was growing tired of my nagging. But, instead of an irritated response, I received something shocking.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZu2vVu7hy
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcl3i4ysXlg
"I dunno, kid. I don't wanna crush yer spirits, but I can't lie to yer face and say it'll be alright. It's Hard-Bringer, kid. It's a dangerous battle against messed up folk. If it were up to me, I'd haul ass outta here, but there are too many things containin' me."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5xJvvRKoQ
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtRZBRyvEf2
His logic was candid but undeniably heartbreaking. He put a hand on my shoulder and firmly nodded.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvtoJFobfE3
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJOFnxk06r
"Good luck out there. For both of us."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYUB74yatrm
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzREvCAd0Ah
"..."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCZnvW8xiO2
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURpqBKTLiV
Though it wasn't what I wanted to hear, though it was the harsh truth I'd been turning a blind eye to over and over, dancing and taunting me, I didn't feel distraught or terrified any more than I already was. I had a few words to impart and a thought to express.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVOrRtHG8y1
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG4hZK6YCfX
"You're right, Juke. But, it's like you said earlier, it's just something that needs to be done, so we're going to do it, right?"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCFEuGXOKBz
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPQRu3rRcUP
Though I couldn't see his face, I saw his eyes widen through the slits in his helmet.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xWR0PQp5o
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9duVOTgsdW
"Well, look at ya, kid. Ya finally got some backbone."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM6bMc9jTmd
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWZ6wReApYa
"I-I'm not so sure about that. Reserve those judgments for when we start fighting."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnI8MkJfBv6
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcrsH61kUt
"Haha, I guess so. Yer right, we just gotta do it."209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzWC6voD7Ko
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BqJWrH1Kx
With how frequently I entreated people for affirmation, words were beginning to turn into hackneyed platitudes. But our exchange left me more radiant than before. I pushed myself away from thinking about the fight, counting the seconds until I heard the signal.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXNvLVbSRsA
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1E70jRCFsi
"Everyone!"209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqKj1CAolz5
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1z0poFFBGR
And hearing a familiar woman's voice, I looked up. Lola stood there like a lone, gallant hero, out of the alleyways, holding a battle standard with a flag. She didn't break into a speech or a call to action; that shout was all that was necessary.209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnfVMfdBkE
209Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu1gyuQAj1A
A blazing stampede, a collective roar, all conjoined with a fervorous crowd. I took my first step, dozens before the others, and ran.
