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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV5viS9on6Q
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡES88N4yUjv
"..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXQ0hbeG0J
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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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtvr96qj0bA
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHpiuaLLhQf
"Damn you, Kenny. Damn you..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1OfzETrKIu
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZB6XYv9Zt
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdZz8BDNb5P
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkrJkXzHlP
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnkx5Cky96S
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"Crap."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgPrxkIwK9v
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArHGF9yZLu
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJMSgNMhP5
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ulSISEwVZ
"Heya, kid. Good mornin'."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡREXlAjKxVQ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCUvmpbSzx8
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEc0AsxCSYm
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVy7mpZl4x
I didn't say anything, because he did first.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwigGxnoge
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq5SwhM0dfN
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ050d0ZLOtJ
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"...Uh."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡza5zZHRNfJ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6HQyuhcXse
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFueupFsIOQ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdYz4R6jLsw
"Don't give me that look, kid. The last thing I wanna hear now is that I broke yer psyche."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJvqOKLdTxi
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNETa7ZdAGp
"O-Oh, no, you did no such thing! Don't worry, uh..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3MmjjZTVX
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLRNFFVY55c
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7LucEkTlzJ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBPB9sHzDml
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QQ1qIQ84j
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKXpBJKz1q
Juke's eyes narrowed, ever so slightly, delivering a devastating deadpan.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnpJGZ2guE
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF505eVd3v6
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQHTSIjEaNH
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGmgpmHmath
He said that, rubbing his hands together with a satisfied grin. Before he left, though, I felt like I had to say something.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ63eMqaUrET
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSL1mbn4gZw
"W-Wait, Juke. I just want to say that, I'm sorry too."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYn8lqzEeMh
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiL3or47RjT
His smirk vanished, and his eyebrow raised. His hands were still together, though.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZu5WUICXyt
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMRDUaLD76B
"What for? Ya didn't do anythin'. Relax, kid."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFkw439xex8
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeuermnbFHv
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQ2OQcVRkE
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiv0VQMPRnf
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UfKlYhjjf
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9dsuDzBbE
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV2lZOh9Lgg
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKw9se4RbSt
–122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhDetnrPIDs
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–122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGqlWR1uMZI
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–122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZtU91oyZlH
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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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1AtHGO7TO
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPU7VDLYer
"Good morning, star child. What think you of the food in this humble residence?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdr6wgTA50A
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxrVcjGwTTh
"...Trevor."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAuOAWxILFg
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87gTlXmk3M
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡisgLW8Tb7m
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVyWBg9Iqku
"Your eyes have lots of malice. What did I do to deserve such scorn?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1039fBZqr
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK2RUfC7M9U
"Calling me a star child, for one. And, for the second, I'm sure you know."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gqsRxgz8i
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFmRCG0kRzD
He chuckled, holding his arms behind his back.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4bMsiYAsyI
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPJ8LZm7HJ4
"Was it that little stunt I pulled yesterday? But does such an innocuous gesture warrant that glare?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcCZhZklqMt
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡncRbBWcooL
"Innocuous? Anything but, Trevor. Anything but. And it isn't the gesture that matters, rather, the thoughts behind them."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oD0N9dXCM
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMR8n9XASC9
"Hmm..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNlPIRVdjGD
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0TQQde2Am
He held his hand to his chin, lost in thought for a moment.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcZxeTyrO5O
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9oFweVO3WG
"You're the type who'd frown at grants as a gift, aren't you?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxmhqMdql4
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCmFf9oAEtA
"H-Huh? Do you take me as crazy!?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8a4tYoThtr
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VxFCrLPMn
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.
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"My apologies. I had no idea my stunt offended you so. I, Trevor Eis Buster, offer thee, Kenny Buffalo Chambers, my sincerest apologies."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRd5GdckHoD
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4q0oF2r3a5
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJMGgEU3W7S
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡohGv9xaKlb
"Now that we're at a clean slate, why don't you let me join your meal?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNtHcUnRih8
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXiNVLCyBlr
"Not possible. I'm afraid I've taken the only seat."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF89uMib4nW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDM4tNEjq3m
"Are you sure?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3EqDHxP0C
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2sjGvdSvCI
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7HDxQhM5iT
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXulrJhlZJw
"So, returning to my first question, do you like the food?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTrdzKEfnIc
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzETF10uzZz
"It's fine," I muttered with a half-full mouth, "I'm used to higher variety. And, well, something that was prepared by someone."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ32BBCX0nh
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxQykRpR3f
"Ah, a child of higher class, I take it?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDRxCTbmL0X
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9wz71NXSRZ
"No. Not at all. Why do you jump to conclusions the way you do?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcyB6uUlof
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfDuKq7rRrR
"Indeed, why do I? Perhaps probing for information this way is just how I fancy spending time."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw0WCGP4USf
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I took a sip from my cup of milk.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmitYpqr4ow
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"That sounds rotten. Befitting of a fellow like you."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjMa3HmT8e
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiK67vdQefS
"It would appear that we aren't on a clean slate at all..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2xbOK2vqtT
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrLr9geIlQo
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGSYmblgFAL
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3QClP3cawN
"Fine, I'm sorry. I'll do my best not to hold it against you."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxRLzs0HG77
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"Excellent!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQb1zdAWYO
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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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwy294rPcD1
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"I say, child–"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUq5BrHpSmb
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"Please, start calling me by my name."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡonUilwDwU0
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡji2L1FCrv3
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWWS4MxqVRi
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdqXQG5thpv
"Maybe so. I would prefer something with meat, however. Wouldn't an increase in protein before a big battle be best?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaQQgXA69SC
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlrIaxPdiWf
"Maybe, but that would risk an armada of stomachs too full."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡutDKvKZ7OG
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0O3eNy0ktc
I looked at him with a face of perplexion.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZX4OXnYk1K
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡySWbpr3M13
"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?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5m8XWzXt5d
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj3gIn9co6A
Trevor's grin curved up to an uncanny angle.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0fYFP2aWiY
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVkLsN7IRU
"Why, of course, you're right, aren't you! Haha!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZU3bBB6rPa
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡddTAdoljCb
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPRGEqXxZy
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMIlrplouXS
"Say, Kenny. Are you afraid of the upcoming battle?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHKpS2ho130
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhzD8hxl44f
As I formed my petty plan, he fired a question from the blue, one so sudden I nearly dropped the pear in my hand.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2kKoPwT4I5
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtKynxgnQz
"That's... a strange, but silly question. Of course, I'm afraid. Isn't everyone?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgCw4JCXgj
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUPNkKQTRnN
"Indeed, everyone is. Good. Say, Kenny, you're a powerful fighter, aren't you?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkH1n7FcFKK
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxgWCpmuUoX
"No. I don't believe I am."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwqXjPOMqj5
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPUIY5KPsW2
He put his hand on my shoulder. The air thickened. The presence of this man muffled the chatter of the room.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIRouovmSEh
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfDCbdt1YDz
"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?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOvaYIh2dSz
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTHSsycP9Qt
"...How do you know that name?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGN7P4jemR8
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDYWJVX6nG
He smirked. It was a smirk, not a grin. I hated it even more.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ujxTuLgO7
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ9DxLB7aMY
"How do you know that name–"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl69qA1G87L
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"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCFq5s3wmdB
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDTGF68RXGr
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIzEfNauc5t
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTPQVez5UAc
"Afterward, whenever possible, find a place called Hatch Cabin in the Rocky Ring."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSi8cNn48pr
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc5QgUXDSgi
He pulled away from me and patted my back with a smile.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfi13TMuw6I
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRDHe7wnt8
"Oh, and I apologize if I frightened you. I need you to understand that I'm being serious, you see."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkO0msT1oVj
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDPGRMYzjzF
"...Right."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQFDXPjfO7
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLJaDlgC9jX
"Now, I'll do you a favor and leave you be. Not like you'll be here for long, though."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgoP8Jxv1GX
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBHLwcpj5Jh
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLjCrnVYDG4
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAudPoFeRS
"What do you mean I won't be here for long?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvN84Zvd55l
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlWos2tBec5
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡphGv3Eia6d
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXHmnrWqRGJ
"Haven't you heard? The other camps learned of our change in strategy. We're mobilizing to fight."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡempLd7Ry9U
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"What!?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBeGPpcNiWv
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–
–
–
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1oKvCK0468
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSKnHVU7xYz
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkC95ibFfW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJartmsNZI8
"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!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡllG9IMQDwE
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HURRAH!122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ570Kna8jDK
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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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvftwR3lTeD
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"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxA2hUZZXkC
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD28QZUYEHv
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVPjueV1mT
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtei1sO1nbw
"What does she mean by it applies to us?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT0mjw308Fv
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBV4yjkBnru
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpCGmDFjaSb
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAj4EoWGqSH
"Looks like yer gonna team up with me, kid."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqjRBMHPhVu
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4G0rAegI7
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7asoT62EBi
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡacscvOlcgk
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABD32A59iD
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkFYVVR2C0I
"Hey everyone!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡitWQmYl2K3
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡceWNCTNQ2C
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQmy3sztwu5
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmEuDStZMhq
"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?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgd8cf0gVzc
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkjE5dBNKmK
The crowd collectively gave a resounding affirmation. Dave swung his arm wide across, opening his mouth to return the cheer.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKuYQ3fGVVY
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEdd8LY1U1K
"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!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkkrgEB4fh
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6GQkwhzwjJ
*HURRAH!*122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVqn0dtLH4g
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJYShkLqf7s
"Y-You need to cool it with these jokes, Dave. Why me, anyway?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCrNgxFLOg
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9Fl3WBmS0
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBgpIUtlrsS
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIwzyid4yk
"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–"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWex2PqD5Zj
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZqLowT16dY
"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!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbZoUy5eogW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTtknonfar5
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡETEmMXFs6y
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzC91sf0jAB
"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?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz1ULTrGDbL
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG7ryZjVKPu
"...Hey, Juke, you and I will partner up, yes?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwKEQiqcsAS
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3k4MyVzELv
He tilted his head and nodded shortly after.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHm7JbVvuBh
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQgzct2feOS
"Ah, that's a relief."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVcdo4SRyW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIkHHg3i2ss
"Looks like ya do agree."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsqDTHtyG9y
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUVwKbjhge
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF3aKdyWwhz
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAYyQfUad9i
I grabbed my shoulders with my arms. I didn't shiver like I thought I would, but it still made me feel more comfortable.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDdgMXudn3a
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFcHPdIO4BP
"I don't think I could've handled being with Rover. At least not yet."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw3EO2ArYyf
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4ZNJdNKXm
"Eh? Handled?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpt2cZeEx9V
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArGVFWMXJk
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH5iMJit7NV
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNIRlE6jyS
"Hey, kid, yer scared of Rover, aren't ya?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCpoIAl4qG7
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6lni2kJR52
"H-Huh!?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSgPgFcDMhh
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcJWf2erBom
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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKRn0U5nS4t
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4MqF0EYkWJ
–122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHKDJsAdsLP
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–122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMXJgZGDTbx
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–
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmmuVrYu0A
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87ZF73qAUH
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrqcmcmLlZO
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNR5CK3HCyg
"The bag still has potions in it, right?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD0j2xlRmyW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlrVDGVDihP
"Yeah, I can hear 'em sloshing in there. Do ya remember what they are?122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvzL7m7Eq56
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzj4VMGuaAL
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNO20WKI7s7
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSlckuVUri6
"Can ya do it quick enough?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PjAnOzk9b
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBifqxgIgtM
"Yes, we're in the back of the line."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn09etWWMi4
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxqW7vx5nsP
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jIseH0L7C
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi35f40PqEI
"Ah, right. If I had an energizer, I would've used it earlier."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqQt9c0XXrd
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ459iksYMbx
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfl4IT2Vb91
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ60JI4bvvQn
"We're comin' up soon, kid."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIIfpVQ1Xh8
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBoRC7572w
"We are, it's too fast. It's a bit much."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QA7f4YG65
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZRucOtwwC
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNmoP9YAevO
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEkk52ZYrJ5
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJxbTo9PmH
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiGsaB4nSQE
"You have your helmet on again, and your shirt-cape, too. Is that your idea of battle armor?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6886d5H6mL
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp4ws2seqT3
"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?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmT3uFPexuT
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz5RfLiKzyI
We took a few steps forward.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWH0VJ8jwyG
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡemCCewRK9w
"This coat is the only thing I have, frankly... and it means a lot to me. It's saved my life before as well."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj4t4QopsUz
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoxBkudgTd2
"That thing saved yer life? Did ya live in the Frost Ring before, kid?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqKxS6n9644
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTIo3FvJOL5
"What? No, don't be ridiculous. It has magical properties, that's all."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMuVXBuNGeX
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHdvkibRQHz
We took another set of steps forward.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oJOMEp7i6
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqiuxTr3R6
"I've heard about stuff like that– magic defense in coats and shirts. Shit's crazy to hear. Did ya imbue that thing yerself?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3AkL27ylsC
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu4d2B69RLP
"No, my– Annabelle did it. She's something like a guardian to me. I have a lot of respect for her."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9nn1Xt1hR9
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3sJm6LlbLE
"Apples don't fall far from the tree, eh."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDqzCYLvg6h
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMiu3Ftd6zO
"That proverb only works for blood families, you know. I can barely do mana suspension anyway."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg0dxEt37nK
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFr0Ghu8X6o
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mf9AcNJMY
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpN8CQS7GJq
"I'll be with you two soon. Wait here."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuBZZVHwNUj
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZkmCYUavod
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuzLDP9V2Z3
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhv6djYgA7e
"...Is there any reason why you picked that helmet, Juke?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlrmJiDCrae
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkUpD2TN9rU
He chuckled at my question. I flared up for a second.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVORz3SS4oB
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLCEc82xk5L
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGRFVFMun29
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3GSuaxOaj
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7qDufTwFRG
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxzLeXoZSPt
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAefePhSSxA
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR2C0hgcjRp
"I'm somehow surprised you didn't admit to stealing them."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ51GioOMgZq
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzi6CcdpWoM
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKGfoyHToyW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ15CjcXnmhW
"You're right, though that isn't a high bar to reach."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCHFxFsvxY
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkN75LhBwlV
"Ya ain't wrong, kid."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIeBeBiz5D
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6nPqhVgWF1
"..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZFzha2J1qA
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJM9wR8nRDt
"..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbvnQGQTTW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEhgywkvPR
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyJ46T3hqI
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4iC1u7NX0U
"I wonder if I'll see Dennis out there."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkhdpXtgnPi
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"Huh?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1cprmUpSK1
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwKizFA52yQ
"Don't ya remember our coachman? That's heartless of ya, kid–"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvVtT8Pt2V9
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0IwOLPJ4Ck
"No, I remember him, but... oh goodness, I did forget about him."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIJytx1eBXQ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi4KfJ0sE29
Juke had a hearty laugh. It mocked me.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGshrBG8bO
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP1CZFCaGJN
"No shade from me, kid. Yer head's in the right place. Me? I'm still thinkin' about how much I hate being here."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq34OD1WMne
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQG2xbgBBV
"How can you say my head is in the right place? Do you have any idea how much of a mess it is?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡysb1hNlwqv
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAMIT1L3VZ
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdSf6IhSP0m
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAooNkPcl6y
"I guess," Juke started, "with shit like this, Anywhere in the head is the wrong place."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyoQjNjvflW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX0n3R9b7rL
"...What?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBAMdk2IclW
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSkY1552Xx
"Ya heard me."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡup0nmn4nWS
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY4Ix80RmIN
As we ascended the stairs, he gripped the hilt of his blade and balled his other hand into a fist.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3NBG172ez4
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPJGPHmf0Vl
"There ain't much use thinkin' about it. Let's finish this."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcizMZSjc7
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbvQPPBewQB
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLICFU3Ct1g
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfOyB9LEZyz
I took a deep breath and raised my right arm, letting loose the tendril that laid dormant for what felt like weeks.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvexyvD3KRQ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQqGKApKKgy
–
–
–
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?122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7IVcAjFAJ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ16ZACtsYph
"...We're going to do just fine, aren't we, Juke?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWtM4BBvlCD
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6OuCYAavGI
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0lZeaamjyj
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuUvJSgQxZ9
"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."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡApJDAFzTvy
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAzmu80uqD3
His logic was candid but undeniably heartbreaking. He put a hand on my shoulder and firmly nodded.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSAv7qnmnWl
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoWyPR5jSay
"Good luck out there. For both of us."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzPVt4bk0Or
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl2Mm3oL2UY
"..."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqLcobwwCOg
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdunqWSodtz
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB7u1E8Ctlm
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeOL24ZA5K4
"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?"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxzB44K8LRJ
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVClE1wpPk
Though I couldn't see his face, I saw his eyes widen through the slits in his helmet.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbky9Juwv6w
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdkvUOm5JF6
"Well, look at ya, kid. Ya finally got some backbone."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv4rveQnauE
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ01EUxB5syt
"I-I'm not so sure about that. Reserve those judgments for when we start fighting."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6KdNhuvkRH
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfreC0bTz8u
"Haha, I guess so. Yer right, we just gotta do it."122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNjmqcgoYRv
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNapdMzzHnv
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYOwNp6MRq
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66nqyJoTRa
"Everyone!"122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkQ02HZwc1
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVAnQ6BUdag
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.122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuwT0LIlR0X
122Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkhMKvC7qTw
A blazing stampede, a collective roar, all conjoined with a fervorous crowd. I took my first step, dozens before the others, and ran.
