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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvXRvyVNhv
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBRU8EPgDAs
"..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBqeNqbr7U
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxkFU56M9H2
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOJHPOIcmX2
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFqBjAd7zfo
"Damn you, Kenny. Damn you..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzbQuniXgpi
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfD7QBWWfgt
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPeOXNICmTQ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ505YoanCFx
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYEcTLRUuUm
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqZw6GfyjR
"Crap."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiS2s7lT0cX
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyqHfedksK7
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5bZFVrV9b
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiy1RBeAnDY
"Heya, kid. Good mornin'."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡatnCw4UrQr
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxsjuFcjgvf
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk8bn8OsMpL
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9f5rfSy8W6
I didn't say anything, because he did first.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRCIuKj4SD
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK7prHBiYdV
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZbcJKJMHy
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuN6zgwACNa
"...Uh."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf8FWZ8c1m2
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK5nR7mKNW6
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7J3s6sGv6
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP3hsRhYcZy
"Don't give me that look, kid. The last thing I wanna hear now is that I broke yer psyche."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojfSmebudW
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZy6QiLktGz
"O-Oh, no, you did no such thing! Don't worry, uh..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1jhqd7UNYH
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVeCkFFADyf
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEtFLsnOHNM
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ81hc3awkGe
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdKDxk3PvX5
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNVPkxH13vE
Juke's eyes narrowed, ever so slightly, delivering a devastating deadpan.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcR6Bg1Lvda
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKGrtzeEn6
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuNUJeuxyg1
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfBTCytJBIE
He said that, rubbing his hands together with a satisfied grin. Before he left, though, I felt like I had to say something.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGoHgvY4E9t
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZzJ5X2XSju
"W-Wait, Juke. I just want to say that, I'm sorry too."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrWKFZSedku
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH7WVqnfsat
His smirk vanished, and his eyebrow raised. His hands were still together, though.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVOGdur3hUO
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ19Jmn6FN1b
"What for? Ya didn't do anythin'. Relax, kid."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBg4V1uz8ra
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9kuRrhv8Ox
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGdEQjyi6Fq
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfwHKw4m0bH
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8EUVCN5ag
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQur1QGNsdg
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeW0ghN9JnW
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp89ED4cYui
–171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqTqCXPIhQ7
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEF80RxwAG
–171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgaGKTntKSr
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUKm30L4jfV
–171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaQg3xRfwdt
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM3kSHKYVOe
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPXMC12dV5
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzDXfE8KIzd
"Good morning, star child. What think you of the food in this humble residence?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJ3JU7EIvi
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD7i0Oq2rDF
"...Trevor."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IOUgnXfih
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2IC5y7rXM
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqASar3NcEo
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXcLqHhVijP
"Your eyes have lots of malice. What did I do to deserve such scorn?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiqfyrb4luM
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlql0GO4rjK
"Calling me a star child, for one. And, for the second, I'm sure you know."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxblBMjDok2
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKW9ppYKNBe
He chuckled, holding his arms behind his back.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZc0DTczgNw
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuQ8W0bn0DE
"Was it that little stunt I pulled yesterday? But does such an innocuous gesture warrant that glare?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZ3gN6lnqW
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyb46MRTAuX
"Innocuous? Anything but, Trevor. Anything but. And it isn't the gesture that matters, rather, the thoughts behind them."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXn7WDxdd0d
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmm86t720ME
"Hmm..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiOXEeZYxbP
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPm1IHUsnnB
He held his hand to his chin, lost in thought for a moment.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOdmShqc1eB
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS9k6yb5Ljv
"You're the type who'd frown at grants as a gift, aren't you?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡecoyu8zoXk
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk24ViiZyeR
"H-Huh? Do you take me as crazy!?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59NtfPOzZb
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg4MmefycFB
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.
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMVOV8zk4Cz
"My apologies. I had no idea my stunt offended you so. I, Trevor Eis Buster, offer thee, Kenny Buffalo Chambers, my sincerest apologies."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzWmrWFmzPV
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6eIxAIfT92
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk4RaQ9lG0y
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjcYZ5CTUzN
"Now that we're at a clean slate, why don't you let me join your meal?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ4herULofd
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9OXmcGQqw4
"Not possible. I'm afraid I've taken the only seat."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqvGiECCZod
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNLkXYU9zq3
"Are you sure?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3APC3BfTjl
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7aciD08BZ9
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxY3fUa6pnt
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡACtwWPLy0f
"So, returning to my first question, do you like the food?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpIKwFHJHm
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB7RhlASl6W
"It's fine," I muttered with a half-full mouth, "I'm used to higher variety. And, well, something that was prepared by someone."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRP8ftQRXlW
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1TVULoIQr
"Ah, a child of higher class, I take it?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQVH3tuM6g6
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQNCJXblFkz
"No. Not at all. Why do you jump to conclusions the way you do?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcM8au9kV9V
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTratVdZgAp
"Indeed, why do I? Perhaps probing for information this way is just how I fancy spending time."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6RaDr6eA0i
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIXBrhXm4g
I took a sip from my cup of milk.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLcpgXHLZ8S
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ44gGhaTxl
"That sounds rotten. Befitting of a fellow like you."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJdVq9zjRdm
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFPtxynD8fJ
"It would appear that we aren't on a clean slate at all..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRjw04dlzN
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRjh4D8x35
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVYI4RvB0QQ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdfN6w3ZGfM
"Fine, I'm sorry. I'll do my best not to hold it against you."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkWh6DXjzyw
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOe35Izpecf
"Excellent!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkxX4VXsqtJ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBd9rQATFa1
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD6xyBqPDgO
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4gzDR7YG7n
"I say, child–"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvkam0iXaL
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3hJo0FepH
"Please, start calling me by my name."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNNi2407LZ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxy1FSE5QtK
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGPCjsaZCBs
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmiT5pfbdLA
"Maybe so. I would prefer something with meat, however. Wouldn't an increase in protein before a big battle be best?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQFcFVnvYK
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHu3f7uvuPm
"Maybe, but that would risk an armada of stomachs too full."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFYjO1QW05
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3RHWXvb9yw
I looked at him with a face of perplexion.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOZDYrm6Y5t
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoyCW8K35TX
"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?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUwRU0WCGS9
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLMWH1SDrju
Trevor's grin curved up to an uncanny angle.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjgIT5leUen
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcBIROwpfuZ
"Why, of course, you're right, aren't you! Haha!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwYQJX3apIU
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMoUVVUjfpe
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY8Z5qLRG35
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBLmfW7WN7k
"Say, Kenny. Are you afraid of the upcoming battle?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzN4fT2D8RN
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjI1bofhbXt
As I formed my petty plan, he fired a question from the blue, one so sudden I nearly dropped the pear in my hand.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPAob5xEJCT
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmVBX8Or8T
"That's... a strange, but silly question. Of course, I'm afraid. Isn't everyone?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYbjlGGIMLm
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1L5tLOMeEi
"Indeed, everyone is. Good. Say, Kenny, you're a powerful fighter, aren't you?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYfDojrR8Fd
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVY9oD6zcnK
"No. I don't believe I am."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYKRYpyOJbJ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqjGyrIz1F
He put his hand on my shoulder. The air thickened. The presence of this man muffled the chatter of the room.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6qZnZC8tAM
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKSyq25ddrO
"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?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgEluU3bpKw
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTXa5CZmGmY
"...How do you know that name?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcbuN7YlJD2
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiK2evgZYVV
He smirked. It was a smirk, not a grin. I hated it even more.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE4n3e79xcF
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovPbl8sluK
"How do you know that name–"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDlBwSsguEy
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN7tkw68cLc
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2cZsyFAdSg
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9T5YmFTycc
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtF5sqT48VY
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjkBkEi5XvK
"Afterward, whenever possible, find a place called Hatch Cabin in the Rocky Ring."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgyg3auNB89
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJD1BTHf8w
He pulled away from me and patted my back with a smile.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsVlJgJdTj9
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Pwnx5OEq9
"Oh, and I apologize if I frightened you. I need you to understand that I'm being serious, you see."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdjCDN9zRLb
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgmAEdMv4eg
"...Right."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7J1PhN40xG
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsJuhy6NqX
"Now, I'll do you a favor and leave you be. Not like you'll be here for long, though."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeKwe5Zjn03
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNbPMVZQN6k
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Vf2jNBpGX
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOyBg7d27Im
"What do you mean I won't be here for long?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTq3CsTat12
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw406exNWxY
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhA03L3K15t
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHywpOmK3Q2
"Haven't you heard? The other camps learned of our change in strategy. We're mobilizing to fight."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxNeRkLkD63
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVdxhouegpl
"What!?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPGiBTjhGV
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcLJlDe1NLC
–
–
–
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeM9Ep43R3g
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjtmVC949LS
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTkKLGQJeSX
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPCtsjH2gz
"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!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsgXDTsUvo
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQ2haJZvAM
HURRAH!171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5meyhlFjz5
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxs8us7lVG
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2r6vqH1Izh
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtTVOI3RnP
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0MYxkfI26W
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXI61RigqL6
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXqQHwEWf9Q
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1Tn5zwssL
"What does she mean by it applies to us?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKniJoBV2CV
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9HSSSM6i0G
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0RfwGfIGo
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXuJQCvjx2z
"Looks like yer gonna team up with me, kid."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkiB2hl999i
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9608Bkvvr8
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQWGa0DkgI
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLsIK4RAZPb
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pEE8gWT9f
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJE9jP6uMdK
"Hey everyone!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy3K3PWqmk3
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoO5P7Hc6jy
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1fpuiuz2AQ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQMY3thWavl
"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?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpGvNE0MPQv
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8HXm2xBox
The crowd collectively gave a resounding affirmation. Dave swung his arm wide across, opening his mouth to return the cheer.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcRG7PsZkXN
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIOW9BWwEG5
"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!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQB7umvHFK
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9xdwjRbhJ
*HURRAH!*171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJTBdEZFPU
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOKg4MJJ0SR
"Y-You need to cool it with these jokes, Dave. Why me, anyway?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ38DPuFkf0Q
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtT7rbRiHwS
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSUdi4403PM
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwODvfGQRsH
"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–"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZyoJTNJ0Uz
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX34rtYmjL8
"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!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEfxHADGcyc
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWlSnXLOo9
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3fwQuMfN6z
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡShzeTK1XRA
"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?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBrhLwXj15
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsYbNo3wTmZ
"...Hey, Juke, you and I will partner up, yes?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDeLvIMfTXw
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3sXS8v5FH
He tilted his head and nodded shortly after.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoKHT01oeUL
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA01Tfn6dfH
"Ah, that's a relief."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoZtbdtimVe
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGtFKYBJMsL
"Looks like ya do agree."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTyhr9eKsvd
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9JqN5cnYIj
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBdSpH7ktuW
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQA4VQQFLwH
I grabbed my shoulders with my arms. I didn't shiver like I thought I would, but it still made me feel more comfortable.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVILyzNm9Y8
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQjBn7mTvX
"I don't think I could've handled being with Rover. At least not yet."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwniWhK21EA
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRRB8xNs2F
"Eh? Handled?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSzl5foTqc2
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRNtJRYbZMh
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXydpRA6ItQ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs2WdU7SXdV
"Hey, kid, yer scared of Rover, aren't ya?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMuDqxqhGUM
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XmAKPMghr
"H-Huh!?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsS3dBGlNxQ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRzdXNiMASf
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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0spCwg46k7
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5EJsrgEoxX
–171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0oAv1qoAK
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmOLiuCIBLP
–171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSiLOw0A9RE
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmX7hiH7obX
–
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjLpL3QyfQu
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn6BNNMaPsf
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8UGGNCa4Z
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbck9Fj2Du8
"The bag still has potions in it, right?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCQLMKvah1v
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDPciZcmbpS
"Yeah, I can hear 'em sloshing in there. Do ya remember what they are?171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzbxtHTvmS8
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhPPNzsxbZL
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwvkNa19bBI
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8OGLi6ZIsh
"Can ya do it quick enough?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBYcuklJMm4
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy4xBrb7bOs
"Yes, we're in the back of the line."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ76edT7gWcK
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQxXGeakjp
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF6WCpGTZ8z
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnVpdEqI0Iv
"Ah, right. If I had an energizer, I would've used it earlier."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxALnaz1Bn
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi6Af3eP8nS
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqx7I3jcJ0k
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2RdBbtxwxX
"We're comin' up soon, kid."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8afa21r7Wo
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnRiclfTwrF
"We are, it's too fast. It's a bit much."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZCXmsegB7W
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6f8FRbVJpL
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG0bJieKinB
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk1e0Ns7Cee
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaZ8kIc6YvF
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5DXK7WDhV
"You have your helmet on again, and your shirt-cape, too. Is that your idea of battle armor?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxvlxeLQNr
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1B3QCfmVG
"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?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDDs7XrcBiK
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN3vrKHNL1N
We took a few steps forward.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4bbtxChheo
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBLysRyugfj
"This coat is the only thing I have, frankly... and it means a lot to me. It's saved my life before as well."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNDmFHYKgQQ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xtJEoMWmj
"That thing saved yer life? Did ya live in the Frost Ring before, kid?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrsEk6wglS0
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBYW1zgaJzE
"What? No, don't be ridiculous. It has magical properties, that's all."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡziudmdTnLb
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE5J7miGqbC
We took another set of steps forward.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6iESykqY4E
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnpegtLot1S
"I've heard about stuff like that– magic defense in coats and shirts. Shit's crazy to hear. Did ya imbue that thing yerself?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡle4jayDo06
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaGFilch9eI
"No, my– Annabelle did it. She's something like a guardian to me. I have a lot of respect for her."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpmSRuHT1EK
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1eQL7cho03
"Apples don't fall far from the tree, eh."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ491TYmLVK7
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlNYFvVyRwk
"That proverb only works for blood families, you know. I can barely do mana suspension anyway."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNVP3sEjFk
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuzK34RrwTK
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9RGC09w1vs
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJEUQ9TuFF2
"I'll be with you two soon. Wait here."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡowYelyGaaW
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ7YGs9h7uH
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZrFtzcqEg
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlwfiYwNCfr
"...Is there any reason why you picked that helmet, Juke?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFqZCJO8q7p
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgoSIJ2H2yb
He chuckled at my question. I flared up for a second.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpbs7OTBacD
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr3OT5ueN6u
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdi6OxMi8RZ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6eYe4l4ysn
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnqyiThXVAN
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk273ztwSwq
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTp0zRPFd6K
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTFSHpd57Vf
"I'm somehow surprised you didn't admit to stealing them."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ77l1Mbe9Ay
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXOANgwFMJg
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcqulhgL7jI
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcRxdij2Ci
"You're right, though that isn't a high bar to reach."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd9PZhjhPyH
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMqMWmVXBIO
"Ya ain't wrong, kid."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy5w60szJng
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUyzMB0fzeb
"..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3HI8KSmoZh
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwnqL7wR3Rd
"..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyAX2dH6mdR
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqSelfSVTRV
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj2nkUzzGj4
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbPACxX2ix7
"I wonder if I'll see Dennis out there."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0azI6TAz6d
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjY8ugyD6T
"Huh?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlFID1M3oRP
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxFOayI406
"Don't ya remember our coachman? That's heartless of ya, kid–"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgxOSZpCoib
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNwwgNGRmm
"No, I remember him, but... oh goodness, I did forget about him."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMvWjN86P6Z
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5clyjuY2Qi
Juke had a hearty laugh. It mocked me.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPvtiQeHl3k
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Q4Q10t2um
"No shade from me, kid. Yer head's in the right place. Me? I'm still thinkin' about how much I hate being here."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkad0DGij8Y
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhD0yHzeEb
"How can you say my head is in the right place? Do you have any idea how much of a mess it is?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYlaU7M9hJh
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMsVmjQL9yC
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXd1f0D9bjz
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5R17eRwBP
"I guess," Juke started, "with shit like this, Anywhere in the head is the wrong place."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxdJvINADBR
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEE0Ta9daAs
"...What?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqpSkjcWSyN
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvBloihqoSd
"Ya heard me."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIxTpABlGg
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDpodsVMjC8
As we ascended the stairs, he gripped the hilt of his blade and balled his other hand into a fist.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYczE0KQbg
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJRnO1CYyZm
"There ain't much use thinkin' about it. Let's finish this."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpuVgSK4N6r
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeo456bY6vR
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4nAKoxjbmA
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGITovvR3Re
I took a deep breath and raised my right arm, letting loose the tendril that laid dormant for what felt like weeks.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMjv6M52VvE
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb2cAJRZHuQ
–
–
–
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?171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIVN3vkRzA
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHlFoiSC6MS
"...We're going to do just fine, aren't we, Juke?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyWCbp5JER
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjVDtqzdyPp
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufAm3WFbZw
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ReqRofMbT
"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."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡudZe3qy63F
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNLwb6nSlW
His logic was candid but undeniably heartbreaking. He put a hand on my shoulder and firmly nodded.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4P5YiQ7qOh
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6uyOIxbfyJ
"Good luck out there. For both of us."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvTlZDiWe0G
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRLV9GJ6qO
"..."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZt6snhBpf
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWFK6GY2Sjq
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTAKIDIKxd
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlBNXngHLKO
"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?"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJdgrsCM8P1
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqYmEQYXJE
Though I couldn't see his face, I saw his eyes widen through the slits in his helmet.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡix7S0m4Vbn
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6crHj2Gxg9
"Well, look at ya, kid. Ya finally got some backbone."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7YNWi6psOc
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYOMaOIH7kp
"I-I'm not so sure about that. Reserve those judgments for when we start fighting."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhM9XSl4QxJ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXM6DONwEVg
"Haha, I guess so. Yer right, we just gotta do it."171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUI8YCEPCXw
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn0BJgxFTlV
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSNwu1hDgJ
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkS1KX25PNG
"Everyone!"171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSJhlJ3gDUX
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUUWZAbo1AJ
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.171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzt5H7bcS1Y
171Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyxg5pTeDZo
A blazing stampede, a collective roar, all conjoined with a fervorous crowd. I took my first step, dozens before the others, and ran.
