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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHer3PgbFm
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf5yBuAJboW
"..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPMBKmw8st3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt4dwPcZ4M0
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRMLNgoRe96
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvP5FEpLDU
"Damn you, Kenny. Damn you..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfGpPcMLBXg
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrBuJP1tQv
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyCeA2irRjs
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnTtpuwjiyg
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmcYq6elNQI
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ4C72pGxPl
"Crap."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCRIxjubK7W
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsq0OgAj4TK
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd8i9SaypGr
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcBWJtyWOgo
"Heya, kid. Good mornin'."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ZP3HkDIm2
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpMCbtR614l
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2aCLKFMyNh
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtunYg4Y4xf
I didn't say anything, because he did first.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4sS4dRTJG2
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEFVrD1rXcE
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMNRf1csotc
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFYoC2bHfq
"...Uh."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡML0Stzk2Bb
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBK1D21hDw
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqrpumE9Oj7
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZ3oOop3UW
"Don't give me that look, kid. The last thing I wanna hear now is that I broke yer psyche."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW5feSqS2pI
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwReZFwkFNa
"O-Oh, no, you did no such thing! Don't worry, uh..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ34RFJTgnrS
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDKFWF9E7BG
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZKNodDDF9j
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnDoLQtyTL
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCSMJc0Cpn
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBM3Q7iFa6D
Juke's eyes narrowed, ever so slightly, delivering a devastating deadpan.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3nFPnxksM3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGQfCIwNE0
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzqsibarNH
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLmTfK2XcUI
He said that, rubbing his hands together with a satisfied grin. Before he left, though, I felt like I had to say something.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqnjCNSt9T
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovuRpIQ9VS
"W-Wait, Juke. I just want to say that, I'm sorry too."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4gGa6BueS5
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpnoPUmAHxO
His smirk vanished, and his eyebrow raised. His hands were still together, though.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUNXLQ26PNs
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7STjTTtZo
"What for? Ya didn't do anythin'. Relax, kid."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBYZGhBYQZg
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj5fzNfxO0G
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRItY40bpXu
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzm19HDWXKx
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuPPBNsH0pW
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoFQz5ubHP
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUtMxGWCyn
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9kXkKDZjGZ
–128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3VVYBTZtrs
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgc7tpbNZLT
–128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ04sXNOJG4h
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdzvoOMbqFV
–128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsKy9qBRDay
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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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdJObKppfs
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBRMGNKgWk
"Good morning, star child. What think you of the food in this humble residence?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1rgaNtgRyy
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDF42FOXS0D
"...Trevor."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxmwXiQI9J
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mmtpqcdxs
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJkRWVXuip
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS7MXhvr6g0
"Your eyes have lots of malice. What did I do to deserve such scorn?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ86NkxxCqjl
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfEVKpgqyDx
"Calling me a star child, for one. And, for the second, I'm sure you know."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTE6y1qbKtv
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBsgbTUV4w7
He chuckled, holding his arms behind his back.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡghpLu0FY60
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiBkXZwKWNJ
"Was it that little stunt I pulled yesterday? But does such an innocuous gesture warrant that glare?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5S5xU1RR4
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtnCdmd7bLQ
"Innocuous? Anything but, Trevor. Anything but. And it isn't the gesture that matters, rather, the thoughts behind them."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvDPiLiMz6z
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpNAeJAW1JR
"Hmm..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLzMNwFpB31
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5PTd6wJOb
He held his hand to his chin, lost in thought for a moment.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwojGfWzQTI
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzNDvcfJz1o
"You're the type who'd frown at grants as a gift, aren't you?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZqEcctl2f
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Iw6aq0far
"H-Huh? Do you take me as crazy!?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH0psQsQA6w
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZDnXBbtk2C
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.
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD75adVTu3L
"My apologies. I had no idea my stunt offended you so. I, Trevor Eis Buster, offer thee, Kenny Buffalo Chambers, my sincerest apologies."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWdqx4Jbn2s
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbmxdEFgqzx
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDocRYD8BiB
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVHZbNkGztL
"Now that we're at a clean slate, why don't you let me join your meal?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdqgrnVtjX7
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW1hXPJpPUO
"Not possible. I'm afraid I've taken the only seat."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEuKj9DTgtl
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3pipgFk0F9
"Are you sure?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYeJjJxqws
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDM7ZKta2u0
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJbdvsHovF3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQb4yjEgFjQ
"So, returning to my first question, do you like the food?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjf8wSl2PAN
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4ehVg6nv7
"It's fine," I muttered with a half-full mouth, "I'm used to higher variety. And, well, something that was prepared by someone."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaz1vxqfcL9
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LsNfsZ0uG
"Ah, a child of higher class, I take it?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH5Pgg7tsS7
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoARcoY24zB
"No. Not at all. Why do you jump to conclusions the way you do?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRcpHO5Moaw
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4dx9BD3iyV
"Indeed, why do I? Perhaps probing for information this way is just how I fancy spending time."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjBiyrcpYek
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25RKlAQuQj
I took a sip from my cup of milk.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ5VuQU3W60
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87NK8GrHfk
"That sounds rotten. Befitting of a fellow like you."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDTokp0sUl4
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKvpnTXF5h
"It would appear that we aren't on a clean slate at all..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5fe90Jf9oV
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU9VxbCkqpU
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9X8t5FsUgn
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡficNgUPg4v
"Fine, I'm sorry. I'll do my best not to hold it against you."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡazzJ2ejrDc
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsRHX0u1R6E
"Excellent!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ23p8gSl7lQ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡloNWI4rdsn
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAoaQCw1DxA
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVy3dhrGi3
"I say, child–"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjdigrMbAf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9lt6v1867O
"Please, start calling me by my name."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGivaoX3ZOr
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJdWhoe4oy5
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxcSsHstRY8
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqWyQUyDtc
"Maybe so. I would prefer something with meat, however. Wouldn't an increase in protein before a big battle be best?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡebzYhTOa0O
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTk2HRNRECi
"Maybe, but that would risk an armada of stomachs too full."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2mQSdHE3Og
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD87QfsNB7C
I looked at him with a face of perplexion.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoT8Npmvuh0
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEdetGCvHLG
"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?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡenPYATZcVK
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwS1kFDM92q
Trevor's grin curved up to an uncanny angle.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdNtwhiiYJf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVM9VUyYBO0
"Why, of course, you're right, aren't you! Haha!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAvw1JBRWmo
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡamxPekzGqS
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRNlTPeoq3y
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9apqXyxYdA
"Say, Kenny. Are you afraid of the upcoming battle?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU5ioiF2Ar0
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaZiqySkE7D
As I formed my petty plan, he fired a question from the blue, one so sudden I nearly dropped the pear in my hand.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnP4b5hl92q
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJpcGggLWNo
"That's... a strange, but silly question. Of course, I'm afraid. Isn't everyone?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ZnIw8ZxqU
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3KpWWRdzFM
"Indeed, everyone is. Good. Say, Kenny, you're a powerful fighter, aren't you?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnftjmcPlG2
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGoAVAodzjx
"No. I don't believe I am."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtHFQ1OL4h8
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkmR6QeIAMu
He put his hand on my shoulder. The air thickened. The presence of this man muffled the chatter of the room.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhKZaxg17qf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Np6qy2toP
"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?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYv5Aw3Vjt3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQoKVm27VRa
"...How do you know that name?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs4PR0bWMzy
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡioJTk3EVpk
He smirked. It was a smirk, not a grin. I hated it even more.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhPg8i3OtZ2
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi9GHIPJq4z
"How do you know that name–"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMb79ayannu
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdL9W2Vg7fK
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmAhq1ntbzf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7g1fT7mC37
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj2IaCqBFJf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigHiPOjCMm
"Afterward, whenever possible, find a place called Hatch Cabin in the Rocky Ring."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡycPo29OLEc
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡASEBBglP45
He pulled away from me and patted my back with a smile.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwxAxd7oThG
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7NdKeqFQU
"Oh, and I apologize if I frightened you. I need you to understand that I'm being serious, you see."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhxUm5T3Hby
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡse9ZyvQHdc
"...Right."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWNfjP0fHyw
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnK55R6ky4s
"Now, I'll do you a favor and leave you be. Not like you'll be here for long, though."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWgtKEQQAT
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx13tZEuIZ3
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSrR1HMDqf5
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡky7dpBMh1y
"What do you mean I won't be here for long?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqfzKlRuZos
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mfP0GHzcX
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7orIIdfgaK
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8F02a3Pe6O
"Haven't you heard? The other camps learned of our change in strategy. We're mobilizing to fight."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPK6oUGawtB
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjusRAm7IqD
"What!?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GlUeZKDDz
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC3tdhJJqyb
–
–
–
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUKVqHXAgl
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbEQQbvpRfD
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvArqa4YS1I
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoIEM0t7yPa
"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!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrR59GML3ei
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7KvFmGxTd1
HURRAH!128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX1jjfVET8K
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25dn4wAT1X
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ5Gidss95o
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0WwZxy60yK
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡef9bW5g6ZD
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdKsg0P7wtR
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3mZCKjcaaI
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLELGQhzzFO
"What does she mean by it applies to us?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSp2uR2YtA5
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOWPeiNXBO
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzDKxDpBBMd
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQaQJq4vhKY
"Looks like yer gonna team up with me, kid."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5yXqaFf9nC
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiyyAEZ61mB
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjGWQrykgcL
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFgiMcluHo
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh110P7x4Lc
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaxjgl5roep
"Hey everyone!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdCO07nBDea
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHIJm8G7aV
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡojP9I0Gdhi
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaqNZdysJ20
"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?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwBrNsE63w
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ02u1sJM9tG
The crowd collectively gave a resounding affirmation. Dave swung his arm wide across, opening his mouth to return the cheer.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbdAHAOihIa
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Iq7tXiasZ
"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!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvLrpRtF0k
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlktClYKVbP
*HURRAH!*128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqmVVxK0kSV
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPCY9LztpBb
"Y-You need to cool it with these jokes, Dave. Why me, anyway?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6i8noLEdsp
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHAPDdTPE9
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2LjXn9U7V8
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8QL7fHfRq
"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–"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSV9lg5lXgV
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpsrxqQ94Fg
"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!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhk9zXgKcfJ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw17jVFyDUZ
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy582mDQYt3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh1g8Mb2R2g
"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?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnT2tDFbGEi
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCLacooZfGq
"...Hey, Juke, you and I will partner up, yes?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKAHlq8elLQ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlp5KpI8So8
He tilted his head and nodded shortly after.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3hf3E6KxyL
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt9YvNNKorE
"Ah, that's a relief."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn0eP40huwI
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvEkoLv0F6
"Looks like ya do agree."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjeXTOH5MV2
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0FUakRGAPK
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVhg0anV1IV
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVH4ZvGO6Eq
I grabbed my shoulders with my arms. I didn't shiver like I thought I would, but it still made me feel more comfortable.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjOKQKrd9z
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfnNw69F6n
"I don't think I could've handled being with Rover. At least not yet."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLahIAiqBIj
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsW0HNwP5S7
"Eh? Handled?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlVIpWm520S
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bPYESK9Cg
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLsZiuJAC7f
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8qAzVl8gHR
"Hey, kid, yer scared of Rover, aren't ya?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡECIkZJ6km6
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡObCa0mEek1
"H-Huh!?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDGJDcL38Kf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMBP4p2Lxrv
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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4DtdK7pHdC
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH0gnmoGczG
–128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡftn1Vw0tZu
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqIDmS2Bgnh
–128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtvbCYJxEgN
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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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRdzTryGLby
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxIOQYUnz3E
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKhE2uz7GBY
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyrWxA4AV1s
"The bag still has potions in it, right?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfYvPWQk7q
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhORbU5QKnd
"Yeah, I can hear 'em sloshing in there. Do ya remember what they are?128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaref5MuD5l
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwm37lUNfaU
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmmAslHTkXK
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHVc3CiCpr5
"Can ya do it quick enough?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhzOltj34Ce
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4IF123MR58
"Yes, we're in the back of the line."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc8XsvE0lyK
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxbGCdS4wI
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOi7SpPUK2
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtVPiZ4BQ2Z
"Ah, right. If I had an energizer, I would've used it earlier."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Qwu2iXYVO
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK6tb82jNHB
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNCtNwGpNE8
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUGcQuGK3m
"We're comin' up soon, kid."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8cBTkDrOO
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoH5vdgiCKn
"We are, it's too fast. It's a bit much."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡORoRdBlfr9
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ150cT6NMmr
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdI6GZCMBZU
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXUFLkKACcQ
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDsMkqZfe6
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOX02wE3VS9
"You have your helmet on again, and your shirt-cape, too. Is that your idea of battle armor?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhnO7H7pY9Q
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9ncgmHRei
"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?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv0yEi6Tsen
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRmqfSQ2h9a
We took a few steps forward.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoibAHxcLjU
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDzrTdHj9bE
"This coat is the only thing I have, frankly... and it means a lot to me. It's saved my life before as well."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gkTyuFubk
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqAz9Xc9qpj
"That thing saved yer life? Did ya live in the Frost Ring before, kid?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkjoaRLDLDA
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFnHKLg26OH
"What? No, don't be ridiculous. It has magical properties, that's all."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1RMfAQ0abb
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdDYUsTB2X
We took another set of steps forward.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1B4OL5j0VC
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwTMdFC2BDc
"I've heard about stuff like that– magic defense in coats and shirts. Shit's crazy to hear. Did ya imbue that thing yerself?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOzq9jC6hZl
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBR6Z6b0V6w
"No, my– Annabelle did it. She's something like a guardian to me. I have a lot of respect for her."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLcPRvzRtPI
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl4ldostVAx
"Apples don't fall far from the tree, eh."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ra6YsXDeD
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzh9ck4WoQX
"That proverb only works for blood families, you know. I can barely do mana suspension anyway."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsLteTD80hL
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ARWvgEn6q
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa2xESuE9Vt
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHPBd2RzBe
"I'll be with you two soon. Wait here."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7fMiuO6p4
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh3tCaehIX3
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd7SNbsgl5t
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwRoGDBLYe6
"...Is there any reason why you picked that helmet, Juke?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGxMuhq258k
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVz7mPISj4b
He chuckled at my question. I flared up for a second.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAnuK8KChun
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEuKnv3eWN
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNOrPDnD0Q3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWVcghFKkX
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZnrGweKzYT
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTF33hIvCBR
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI3A3svOZYt
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm1zTSMkbew
"I'm somehow surprised you didn't admit to stealing them."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHquCYlG66O
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7ekL4Pz0f
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe3JgIww7g3
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyS8595tU5h
"You're right, though that isn't a high bar to reach."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQTcuPT7M3L
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsB03rsoyoa
"Ya ain't wrong, kid."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCsIPEqQReZ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡasJXM6GrPR
"..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeF2Ko4XnsQ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡytZTC1k8eC
"..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp5ArXQNPhP
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ymBgszmCt
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXlGjgjwiwb
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK38f7dO2SA
"I wonder if I'll see Dennis out there."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYh3nOWPpxp
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH7S51gfUxR
"Huh?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Ov68pjN7z
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHbpsga4HX5
"Don't ya remember our coachman? That's heartless of ya, kid–"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27VXbKqq9C
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5SYYoxZ5cB
"No, I remember him, but... oh goodness, I did forget about him."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi7WeTT2YBk
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOsNM5KBaY
Juke had a hearty laugh. It mocked me.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8B8OWMJgmN
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfgClsaXwXx
"No shade from me, kid. Yer head's in the right place. Me? I'm still thinkin' about how much I hate being here."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI9uZhJIrZf
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjk9FTrov2A
"How can you say my head is in the right place? Do you have any idea how much of a mess it is?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEnGPqTstkQ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwK3624A6kD
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhEcmTzSvIj
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZiYYDQXD3
"I guess," Juke started, "with shit like this, Anywhere in the head is the wrong place."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwoIt9V1xPk
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiSbQQUDpgM
"...What?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBDc9Wii1wB
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7nULHphi6Z
"Ya heard me."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBJvpS477Xj
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡql8JfRcUQx
As we ascended the stairs, he gripped the hilt of his blade and balled his other hand into a fist.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NHvkeFdhz
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5tnXEEt7K
"There ain't much use thinkin' about it. Let's finish this."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYERsFLcLN
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRs56BO2Y8Z
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrdI5yGLfha
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5oIZzvD0JL
I took a deep breath and raised my right arm, letting loose the tendril that laid dormant for what felt like weeks.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8OrDtwJ7m
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyI2jJ3LX6A
–
–
–
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?128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq5lGBvdkbX
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvLZYtGEhNq
"...We're going to do just fine, aren't we, Juke?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgCVb3D4PQN
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MtmKk4Rzh
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHDNnQcK3kh
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVe2NrtamWn
"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."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszGc5zlBlk
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3aHnpRAVwz
His logic was candid but undeniably heartbreaking. He put a hand on my shoulder and firmly nodded.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq3yeBmrpZG
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk2M4DyJLdX
"Good luck out there. For both of us."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFinB2czK6
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtQLD8EdG0h
"..."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJO30W1JdJH
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvSvQMdLo6X
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKZqQoV6scH
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3r8sgWdBjM
"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?"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS2XN054S8x
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGaTUanzwsT
Though I couldn't see his face, I saw his eyes widen through the slits in his helmet.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLW2NR6wguQ
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUWZqmWxlan
"Well, look at ya, kid. Ya finally got some backbone."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYdSoQbCegO
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrLfpQcKqs
"I-I'm not so sure about that. Reserve those judgments for when we start fighting."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPU1zn5WSEj
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrV4va4apmV
"Haha, I guess so. Yer right, we just gotta do it."128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFR2n4mxb88
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3y6zxjNSO
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfYb9l3K5Hp
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffw9AXjdE7
"Everyone!"128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpaaFm8go7c
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqtX2VtHKGV
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.128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡncANWC4wOx
128Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpEyQfsxxLD
A blazing stampede, a collective roar, all conjoined with a fervorous crowd. I took my first step, dozens before the others, and ran.
