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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcCkIjBWn1t
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzWPYkwYBwj
"..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ99USJ6EZEE
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJtfzmfjPW
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqgTKuJPkCx
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8GjvBPCXyH
"Damn you, Kenny. Damn you..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡysAXbxvgGW
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLOhATyyLQ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5nsuCfuTbx
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡti09CzaUxd
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnILdGYGPWo
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6edX7mc5PX
"Crap."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpaUQzZnwey
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoY0TRUudbi
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn76eK4pCc1
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOVasVTaeRy
"Heya, kid. Good mornin'."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7WYAJ8Pqz2
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUaTggltFCh
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAUot9y0myA
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOm4KshQ0La
I didn't say anything, because he did first.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgQ5qtVy6eT
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3hPzXe0flg
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMkc0bkjkR0
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB78mPUZ0PK
"...Uh."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGWqQgaHF8
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRWI62ifb4B
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgmCCIoIdly
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIHiTTKvdxt
"Don't give me that look, kid. The last thing I wanna hear now is that I broke yer psyche."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡthuhWuqeME
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeq4yy9S4ll
"O-Oh, no, you did no such thing! Don't worry, uh..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqm2a1xdiHu
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeyu3Q0qvgu
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb5HJNkCBgx
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBlPWfNxzk
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tECPxUp8n
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWi3Uoc7QGc
Juke's eyes narrowed, ever so slightly, delivering a devastating deadpan.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVehEHdq1C3
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ45gvoX5Pqj
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBwcMUggPxI
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrCoxy6jOCx
He said that, rubbing his hands together with a satisfied grin. Before he left, though, I felt like I had to say something.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcIKkthlsee
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvHAD3aS7OZ
"W-Wait, Juke. I just want to say that, I'm sorry too."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHmCrSxoh7
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXTkSZ8f9KE
His smirk vanished, and his eyebrow raised. His hands were still together, though.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkkpmsjmmI
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmAHlEFB5B4
"What for? Ya didn't do anythin'. Relax, kid."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIiEHNgENT3
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUhlVDkbM4
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWPkw5wRvI
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIPBswlDAB
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0p6bDhTsDX
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqNL4npD6X
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡslrjxtInWx
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0MWf4QdKa8
–390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQKsQhHk0Ly
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjkwH0rqMT
–390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS5OWnm0dfX
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJcjGxRuD1z
–390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGg7feZvuAp
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmhD7J8QwE
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhjctoEwaWY
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB9uoBAFoIu
"Good morning, star child. What think you of the food in this humble residence?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYN3QouhlIA
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYRrYnSPKEU
"...Trevor."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjIwkWqmbjJ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ76bLsb8fJJ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSky1xaQHZA
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2R4j78MW2D
"Your eyes have lots of malice. What did I do to deserve such scorn?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmdHpQsJkIv
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pFQ3LiGa1
"Calling me a star child, for one. And, for the second, I'm sure you know."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWFrRghhx2B
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS61OdcvxbK
He chuckled, holding his arms behind his back.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDg7bfMca9T
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcuvezlYOno
"Was it that little stunt I pulled yesterday? But does such an innocuous gesture warrant that glare?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFDrs63KNLX
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFXSm9vD24s
"Innocuous? Anything but, Trevor. Anything but. And it isn't the gesture that matters, rather, the thoughts behind them."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT8SgTJ9kpE
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkyR8ExH6dK
"Hmm..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVv59hlgmOi
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXk0yODgep2
He held his hand to his chin, lost in thought for a moment.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe9pR1nZuAH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1sdEUbqsyJ
"You're the type who'd frown at grants as a gift, aren't you?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8wYxn9zzh4
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ28ZknUr1jd
"H-Huh? Do you take me as crazy!?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0hkEjcSTw
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzxXBCF3LsP
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.
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtgy8v4IIj
"My apologies. I had no idea my stunt offended you so. I, Trevor Eis Buster, offer thee, Kenny Buffalo Chambers, my sincerest apologies."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdO9DXu1JE
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Mz1fCFTSR
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNNCFhlm4Dw
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqHukLwdOFH
"Now that we're at a clean slate, why don't you let me join your meal?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD71TdokLvv
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoevZWyjhke
"Not possible. I'm afraid I've taken the only seat."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡILsSOW6abf
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKHXSSGZHcX
"Are you sure?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhylmGhmivD
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3nhQWyC9h
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRfZjYIQFlH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHeXMzEl2jU
"So, returning to my first question, do you like the food?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM4JXc9NqfA
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb2QU1UNAHQ
"It's fine," I muttered with a half-full mouth, "I'm used to higher variety. And, well, something that was prepared by someone."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWginkybf5E
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpGIulDXwtP
"Ah, a child of higher class, I take it?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6JQLhTVlD6
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6VInWnS3Wk
"No. Not at all. Why do you jump to conclusions the way you do?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqf7qSixwZi
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDsx3xASwI5
"Indeed, why do I? Perhaps probing for information this way is just how I fancy spending time."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1sc6qMQv5O
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTsrZWrhyI
I took a sip from my cup of milk.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbuanYFYxP0
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuh49J6X02g
"That sounds rotten. Befitting of a fellow like you."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdSNkzvIK0K
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzu4FJ6Zp3S
"It would appear that we aren't on a clean slate at all..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtsAwTsUU2b
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU7D0CrniU1
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawGNu24PF1
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHV4Ade4w5Z
"Fine, I'm sorry. I'll do my best not to hold it against you."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR6v7rOoke8
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvG1cRRajI
"Excellent!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZfvxmiaIwB
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHEB92LFeU
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDaSwmPkeZ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwgzCtUZjfh
"I say, child–"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2itRmrDmxH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdUsXcj8Oni
"Please, start calling me by my name."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNf7C9wkby
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BBuZMtJ7u
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoPnEeAalVP
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ67BYhjrgXk
"Maybe so. I would prefer something with meat, however. Wouldn't an increase in protein before a big battle be best?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJLVbOl11iH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWZaDXP9VzL
"Maybe, but that would risk an armada of stomachs too full."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh7FeWUEg8d
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO1Y0FAMprK
I looked at him with a face of perplexion.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVqjNkn57wc
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs7LBV2izeO
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh2wsD6QYwL
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZII61Y6Cwt
Trevor's grin curved up to an uncanny angle.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡogkbtFN43w
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgkYSc51qCR
"Why, of course, you're right, aren't you! Haha!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡumIt1ousmB
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdh0eF3I14e
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAoj3d1WKtC
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ00sacH7fyt
"Say, Kenny. Are you afraid of the upcoming battle?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiRmDh9DJDy
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQx2r0rEFq8
As I formed my petty plan, he fired a question from the blue, one so sudden I nearly dropped the pear in my hand.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyEk0U270Q
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgL5SkVu8Yv
"That's... a strange, but silly question. Of course, I'm afraid. Isn't everyone?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGGrbfixAO
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv0JjRdJ0jI
"Indeed, everyone is. Good. Say, Kenny, you're a powerful fighter, aren't you?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZmKYFu1ohH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJhH1JtMo8L
"No. I don't believe I am."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbehsXp5LZa
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1oRPWGit5j
He put his hand on my shoulder. The air thickened. The presence of this man muffled the chatter of the room.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ7b0kogl4O
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiD2SuILtJL
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoqtjxGzwL
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBWDyJTYjDM
"...How do you know that name?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyFJJuTXko
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGDKzX6gP9
He smirked. It was a smirk, not a grin. I hated it even more.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3YkQGocOLm
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2NR0cK1SWE
"How do you know that name–"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe5VbfvF9vg
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM8XdNX9OPZ
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVTBwCSLyDo
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURr2v1sOHF
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIMlr2YVXSL
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGhUrJR38CV
"Afterward, whenever possible, find a place called Hatch Cabin in the Rocky Ring."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBWkrpuioj
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfo2qnG8kD
He pulled away from me and patted my back with a smile.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8iaEZioGpj
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXhSEtUu3Dr
"Oh, and I apologize if I frightened you. I need you to understand that I'm being serious, you see."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ883VLSjhJZ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0GPUVPO2pp
"...Right."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbNzBijK9B
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkdLZHVoXt4
"Now, I'll do you a favor and leave you be. Not like you'll be here for long, though."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf0prtqLM2r
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2fvr37Yugy
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1CU2OVnKk
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlt9OxJe8Wy
"What do you mean I won't be here for long?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV53YyhZCiK
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnIS3ckJnsQ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZViNp9Nxpl
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7mybZItdU
"Haven't you heard? The other camps learned of our change in strategy. We're mobilizing to fight."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuL91nIDnqA
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpo75e9NRgR
"What!?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2KiaSQVVem
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN8IydM9Aae
–
–
–
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4wNfwdlEf
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIb66QUNvjK
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Wv7AzAzVN
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsx5XuxBeFN
"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!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNvs0VjzTw8
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavmX15jA6w
HURRAH!390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGpqK52CDtN
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsHftpFwWGJ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3tb08yJTuG
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcUlMrBHao
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl2WON3Y1jX
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbajWjHPA5q
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucAjSbhzD3
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBCw5h7Coq4
"What does she mean by it applies to us?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDWeaj6Me65
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiijDsrcvfc
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYFdmJkP0qD
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ4YZ4jtUCz
"Looks like yer gonna team up with me, kid."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSnRhDAmXS
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHJKWihh0Uh
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm8yIBR57XL
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzr7dkLUw6x
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRRnk6gNVoK
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡINoOvd02QF
"Hey everyone!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoi3rXOf7Lb
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzO1oetKqqT
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5gyTPMvRDV
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUzAp45jk7V
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtR27vlJFwW
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg9mNMwXbQI
The crowd collectively gave a resounding affirmation. Dave swung his arm wide across, opening his mouth to return the cheer.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJXvzOhZRQ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIAs4DVwrT
"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!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBklNOUKUPm
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XpUhqvemU
*HURRAH!*390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhVnbYuSGyx
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdUvYL6HN9r
"Y-You need to cool it with these jokes, Dave. Why me, anyway?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQoXAkBizd
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡea3QAaFeEI
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ28W2ovYeQI
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRrjPm6ToXt
"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–"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg7vy6K7BqV
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnSVbsMoWv9
"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!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjT2AuPQaVA
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWrfPOf83EB
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtQ1PV1nKu9
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEP3GIV2ha9
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlzlZ3lnCwi
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxExrmE9GjJ
"...Hey, Juke, you and I will partner up, yes?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCxlkJw5lqb
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl5etq9Zzsa
He tilted his head and nodded shortly after.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsarnlRqAC
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDyu9rkbjsp
"Ah, that's a relief."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtv6ywTx0SV
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqEWrjYYFS3
"Looks like ya do agree."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQSyhkcacE
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHhAfWYfOqa
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtEMUEOtNPU
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvMRZMtA7mH
I grabbed my shoulders with my arms. I didn't shiver like I thought I would, but it still made me feel more comfortable.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWiEPKaMS7T
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVcCGNn3fpQ
"I don't think I could've handled being with Rover. At least not yet."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBXQ3zRSImG
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMZxppVhxEk
"Eh? Handled?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Q3ftABYwv
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiDwpI6gyPH
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUnf8PFTSBl
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbY1VgIWRgS
"Hey, kid, yer scared of Rover, aren't ya?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8XRTmq5Ts8
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjuNwB45hJ4
"H-Huh!?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7yBQJqXeYK
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDQAFAU01WN
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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv17lrp6O3p
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGX2ZW25Iha
–390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjSV5ha8tFt
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1XjtkA1ME
–390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnWnVjYtFZ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPYXR4J7CL
–
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGYvPqFAHGw
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG3z80fUzF8
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJlifaVMbPb
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoWHLZ7GsP
"The bag still has potions in it, right?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkcdLZbeeTP
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvOC9Bfw1Lj
"Yeah, I can hear 'em sloshing in there. Do ya remember what they are?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRlDbTO2Rj9
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIRjfmMzFEH
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPYanCCLLqw
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI3FmxDEytD
"Can ya do it quick enough?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXG8lGGknsP
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWnwtJ0zZX8
"Yes, we're in the back of the line."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSOR2BhHzX9
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgGOUX6uZnD
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6fDRcMO20Y
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZBdpKZnvft
"Ah, right. If I had an energizer, I would've used it earlier."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKLiVyS2nbn
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXc6vYpurjC
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgpWxAwCXyZ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRMw2iUzxlm
"We're comin' up soon, kid."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPulsXVI8P
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhsu5Fc1KRl
"We are, it's too fast. It's a bit much."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHnKdUOcqx
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfWzsBqX6lg
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX8ZTlLucwn
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrjSiptQwyD
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0wkufxHp2X
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRwZ8zZtw6h
"You have your helmet on again, and your shirt-cape, too. Is that your idea of battle armor?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLDqY6PrGQ1
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpX15uQgqC
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3ImlucmQ6
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9JlCKbOa8
We took a few steps forward.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDjEyA7yNjC
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzn2wtIagtI
"This coat is the only thing I have, frankly... and it means a lot to me. It's saved my life before as well."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLINUBmmint
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgwaW1b7DRM
"That thing saved yer life? Did ya live in the Frost Ring before, kid?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWchwpwUlS
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBK34Ie2Jf2
"What? No, don't be ridiculous. It has magical properties, that's all."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoKXJaNXu3y
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgmeGgWQ0nf
We took another set of steps forward.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4n20qHmPFX
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK78ZHiJB5c
"I've heard about stuff like that– magic defense in coats and shirts. Shit's crazy to hear. Did ya imbue that thing yerself?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7uneTORSid
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqd8TkZW7r
"No, my– Annabelle did it. She's something like a guardian to me. I have a lot of respect for her."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbSDeWrEsJE
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG0UuEx0vmZ
"Apples don't fall far from the tree, eh."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfhin5xPoqo
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BU1WzOUgi
"That proverb only works for blood families, you know. I can barely do mana suspension anyway."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj9hXwBxUrm
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4puoYJI2z
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2MhLms6P7r
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡymV7P3TLgO
"I'll be with you two soon. Wait here."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgcd1Y9iL5o
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwxwFqDBENF
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTQovSkU4TF
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISvsvkF747
"...Is there any reason why you picked that helmet, Juke?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAXNFx3b88m
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEwwsS0MmL4
He chuckled at my question. I flared up for a second.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZmKXF67MpP
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡydBSH4Cqnl
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBoBeR3LSkR
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡECyaS07YDs
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMv2HsdJsO0
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9pPdOuim5j
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMDt2IjUrzX
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡctY7q5oRZT
"I'm somehow surprised you didn't admit to stealing them."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY6rJo5wgZn
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEtO7haEcTv
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDhFcGd47u
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeQgnnWPECg
"You're right, though that isn't a high bar to reach."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnp8y7WUgF
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8xQIju55B
"Ya ain't wrong, kid."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLOOrVi2Q18
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSKuKs8XNyg
"..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK2qpLj9ucI
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gwvSMva65
"..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7gdXcenukI
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡepcpcgEbG1
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpOLk49ZKSy
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb9BvBMpdAD
"I wonder if I'll see Dennis out there."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrwink52JLc
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO2TdR8Swnp
"Huh?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9HIV3MvGO6
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkwQAqfGW1x
"Don't ya remember our coachman? That's heartless of ya, kid–"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjlbCicixcu
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsf71BKyom
"No, I remember him, but... oh goodness, I did forget about him."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvztYoFaiTM
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9GqmAHM6WM
Juke had a hearty laugh. It mocked me.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzxeS3DyaeG
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ32k8P3N7I
"No shade from me, kid. Yer head's in the right place. Me? I'm still thinkin' about how much I hate being here."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡckOsw1mBOy
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzlSqYlxsY
"How can you say my head is in the right place? Do you have any idea how much of a mess it is?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWjGmjyudnm
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDQK3DvBnEn
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKo2fCB2bAb
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2CohHeQEn
"I guess," Juke started, "with shit like this, Anywhere in the head is the wrong place."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8ls84Y0b3
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcJjVm83QT
"...What?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4zq6Zt5hbo
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5AyHftldTv
"Ya heard me."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1BNo9Qk9If
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiR7FK28RRY
As we ascended the stairs, he gripped the hilt of his blade and balled his other hand into a fist.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡimmVxBwpEH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59FPCyNaiO
"There ain't much use thinkin' about it. Let's finish this."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0joc2tf7FG
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7XKczI9jHa
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaE1Kmcn5u
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJz6IVberPn
I took a deep breath and raised my right arm, letting loose the tendril that laid dormant for what felt like weeks.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDb7kyvQ7SB
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjt68vwaPEk
–
–
–
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?390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCmiVGlQI5h
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrOlb6vBFBB
"...We're going to do just fine, aren't we, Juke?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzmfWbV3S2H
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiU2Nme69r3
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiXnQTMDO5J
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQsLGH1BCB7
"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."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRUboDLymJM
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQMGSGs9W4V
His logic was candid but undeniably heartbreaking. He put a hand on my shoulder and firmly nodded.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8PZayNZb1
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnuAWJpAdEc
"Good luck out there. For both of us."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk9OVOFCrYY
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl4Gx2vc9mG
"..."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRiHw4fHdXQ
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk1jHo5vHGp
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiwhBsD8oBu
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡArTe3SlDe1
"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?"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2SoLUmNgUD
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbdrOwbJddJ
Though I couldn't see his face, I saw his eyes widen through the slits in his helmet.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHl6ehuZEe
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7sqV5c8pJA
"Well, look at ya, kid. Ya finally got some backbone."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEEx1g3pmD
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1hx7LVJdMB
"I-I'm not so sure about that. Reserve those judgments for when we start fighting."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOpqT6d8l7t
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVcLmvZ0v44
"Haha, I guess so. Yer right, we just gotta do it."390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0uFoB32Y5
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLIJ3O74eDj
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnlf7qIcIBa
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gmwsacVaS
"Everyone!"390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVpj9HnLYH
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmKpDX5znzJ
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.390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSuzYURU78Z
390Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMdxWITBdYS
A blazing stampede, a collective roar, all conjoined with a fervorous crowd. I took my first step, dozens before the others, and ran.
然後按「加至主畫面」