I wasn’t there to witness it, but I can almost feel the weight pressing down on them. The headquarters of Zemstan loomed like it always did sterile, imposing, drenched in power. Just outside, where synthetic precision met delicate beauty, the Clematis garden swayed gently in the breeze. It’s where Rylee often went when her thoughts became too much to hold in sterile walls.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvh70CBvd7T
She stood there again, surrounded by violet and white blooms, lost in thought. Her expression told me more than any surveillance camera ever could she was worried. About me.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbIJxCT34TN
Even in her solitude, she voiced her guilt aloud.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzgAKfi0VQ1
I could imagine the pain she held behind that cool scientist exterior. She didn’t just work under Athenaria she idolized her. And losing her before all this, before my resurrection, must have left her stranded.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Cf6TEFc4G
Then came Leeway steadfast as ever. I could hear his boots lightly crunching over the gravel paths of the garden as he approached her.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPUVNJBDBGm
“So this is where you’ve been hiding,” he said casually.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BEdbseEBo
She turned to him, startled but clearly not annoyed by the intrusion.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfyoM2SR0SJ
“Captain…” she acknowledged quietly.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5F8WQdB6w9
“Doctor? Are you okay? Can I help you with anything?” he asked, the concern in his voice real and unmistakable.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeUMczgaeJn
They stood together in the heart of the garden, where technology paused and emotions crept in. I wish I could’ve been there to see it. Rylee’s voice softened as she shifted to the topic gnawing at her.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhkTTwq8uRO
“Well… remember the interstellar system I mentioned to you before?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGMhxxXMGLT
“Wait, don’t tell me it’s not done yet?” Leeway asked, already piecing it together.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmQvS3Cadq
“And you asked me to do a recon mission too. Just give me the necessary orders, and I’ll deploy my troops immediately.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHeYY4DTYFE
But Rylee shook her head.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlhbkjxBuu
“I actually changed my mind. We have a better mission to do. Though… I’m not sure if I’m making the right decision here.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoFNqDBIXOZ
“Should we go inside to have a more detailed discussion about it?” he offered.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8alBXB0zXR
“I’m too stressed out to go inside,” she replied with a faint smile. “I prefer discussing it here.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeXk9THnZh7
Leeway chuckled, trying to lighten the mood like he always did.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZbUrc1Mhx3
“Doc, relax. Nothing bad’s gonna happen. Even without Kyrie around.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSXsfRmg1h
But Rylee's tone hardened at the mention of my name.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfwmKLOcPIV
“Kyrie should be a top priority. You know what kind of power that kid possesses. Now that he’s not here, anything can happen.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyjV9dn2N6R
That struck a chord in Leeway.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ESXgv3uks
“Agreed. And it’s been weeks since the incident. He must have already used a huge percentage of the Destruct System. But who knows he might’ve had a reason for using it.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSuVAQDcxEU
“That’s the problem,” Rylee said quietly. “Which makes it even more scary.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdA5IhsNWAB
Leeway didn’t press further. Instead, he gave her that dependable grin of his the kind that tells you he’s got your back no matter what.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYLRXsooLWF
“I’m ready to take orders anytime, Doctor,” he said. “Just give me the signal.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuf9UQKAMJ
I don’t know what she decided that day. But I do know this: even when I’m not with them, they’re still fighting for me. Still worrying. Still believing I’m worth something.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ70MuLYRrZ
Even when I can’t say it, I’m grateful.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUqqKiXGBy
Even when I’m not around, my shadow still lingers in every conversation. They’re trying to move forward, to step into shoes that weren’t meant for them. And I hate that.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5K2fIEPQj8
Back at the Clematis garden, Rylee pulled herself together as best she could and finally spoke the words weighing her down.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwRO6JFGogW
“Okay, listen,” she said, her tone steady despite the nerves beneath it. “We don’t have any other Hybrid around to carry out the task. So… it’s up to you Exists to redo the mission.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiYzi4f0nqb
Leeway blinked.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl9DvZA4MqZ
“Wait hold up,” he replied, raising a brow. “Are you asking me to redo one of Kyrie’s abandoned missions?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJSRRprsPzs
“Yes.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxIeeRrZdUj
“Okay, that sounds… sudden.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUcupcAqOdg
“So you’re not up to the task?” Rylee asked, challenging him with her eyes.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwyZx69uvU
Leeway folded his arms, the gears in his mind already turning.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs12LKFXyXX
“I’m up to the task,” he admitted. “But it’s very risky to infiltrate a facility that’s highly secured. All we have are Zemstan’s man-made weapons. I understand why Kyrie was assigned to these missions in the first place. He has psychic abilities he can fend for himself. Us? We rely on training and experience.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNf6gV59N2b
Her silence lingered a second too long, and she looked away, defeated.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfACTnWLfiB
“Does that mean we’re stuck like this forever?” she asked.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMJ2Lsaj5TI
But Leeway softened.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw8v9flPnb6
“Relax, Doctor. I never said I won’t do it.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvAdGd0YCS5
He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡew6bUOnoQ5
“I will do it.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYcRmQDpwVh
Her whole expression lifted.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ51J7FT0B9R
“Oh my! If you’ll do it, that would be awesome! I’m sorry if I’m freaking out. Maybe I’m just stressed out that’s why I’m out here instead of inside. I’m not my usual self right now…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKhF68Gagg
“Don’t sweat it, Doctor,” he said, already moving toward the exit. “We’ll make the necessary preparations as soon as possible.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFOE14zCSQ
He gave her a firm salute before walking off. And in that moment, she was left standing alone in the garden again, staring after him with uncertainty lingering in her eyes.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRH8O20OBez
“Can I still do all of this…?” she whispered, mostly to herself.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrR2gf2YqRu
I wish I could answer her.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3OpOoUEfq
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡioEHqjBscI
At Grandeur City -W.E.S Quarters139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMnNq8cROUI
While I stayed behind the scenes, the world kept turning. At the W.E.S. facility, the air was thick with tension. Troops moved fast, checking gear, calibrating weapons, running last-minute diagnostics. Everyone knew the weight of what they were walking into.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLo0BUBZlGg
Daichiryo approached the headquarters from the outside while Renji nervous as always kept glancing left and right. The prep room buzzed with movement.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuUqZJFydaS
Then Leeway walked in.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7k6otlkKu
“Okay, crew,” he called out. “Get ready we’ll be leaving in one hour. If you have any suggestions or questions, ask away.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFQEkF9ipxD
Renji didn’t waste time.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi2jxEUMA5l
“Captain? Are you sure we can do a Hybrid’s mission?” he asked. “I mean… we all know we’re already putting ourselves in danger.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVL7HGyFXMY
“Unfortunately,” Leeway said, “we have no choice but to accept orders from Rylee. We’ve been training our whole lives. It’s time to bring that training to the front lines.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL5ZW8VvjTL
Before anyone could reply, Seriya walked in, her presence as direct as always.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NxMDEhCOp
“Captain? Are we going to bring Kyrie back this time?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlIOt7l8cC8
Leeway’s answer was almost immediate but heavier than she’d hoped.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGwza35Wm8
“No, Seriya. It’s a different mission. I’m sorry. Looks like we’re not gonna see Kyrie anytime soon either.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfpIpxKlBM
Seriya lowered her eyes.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEw7n9QMsa6
“Bummer,” she said, the disappointment in her voice unmistakable.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUlFbpsL9RK
Renji teased gently, hoping to lift her mood.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmMtvVMp0Wz
“You really have a thing for Kyrie.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡguX5r10yCC
They smiled at each other tired, worn, still holding onto threads of hope.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV2xN0r2O9j
And all the while, I remained unseen. Unreachable.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpxiI73hXTm
But not forgotten.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlzQu79Mrgj
“Yes,” Seriya said without hesitation. “I always had a thing for him. Is there something wrong with that?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeq9vk5Wo8x
Renji raised both hands, caught off guard.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV6g4fIISeX
“Umm no, nothing.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuRf59gPlHs
Just then, the doors slid open with a hiss and Daichiryo stepped into the room, his expression composed and boots clicking across the floor.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFkA8wibfO
“Don’t worry, Seriya,” he said casually. “I’m pretty sure Kyrie’s fine… wherever he is.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuvEiJQf0Ae
Renji turned and offered a half-smile.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpMqQJWkHiv
“Oh hey, Daichi.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8gpeGbtVe
Daichiryo narrowed his eyes.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnK1HabHZFi
“It’s Dachiryo to you.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdcZpPCdaUe
Seriya chuckled.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsv0Hc9OLd
“Always so formal as ever.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm4G1nWTDs4
Renji let out a small laugh but the tension in his voice returned soon after.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWwjrenN6Mj
“I hate to admit it, but I’m a bit nervous…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡISbJsryoLt
Seriya offered him a calm look.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKt4CBm56nr
“Don’t worry. There’s nothing to be afraid of. Nothing will happen to us as long as we have the Captain on our side.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRnPrbhZpI2
Leeway, polishing his weapons at a nearby table, glanced up. His hands moved with practiced precision cleaning, checking, assembling each motion a ritual of control in an unpredictable world.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbypgM07Ca
Renji leaned in with a curious tone.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡht8fRdnJ0H
“Speaking of Hybrids, Captain… Where is that old friend of yours? The one you used to recon with all the time?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlksAp7uPNg
Leeway paused, his gaze briefly lost in the shimmer of steel.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ofo4DvLUE
“I’m not sure where he is right now, to be honest.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtS4MV5Jdn6
He set down the weapon with a heavy clink.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuoEMHCZU1a
“But I’m pretty sure he’s alive. He’s not the kind of guy you can just take down easily.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGN6eC0wFCU
Leeway’s voice took on a tone of subtle reverence.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKaAadSwkMK
“He was also the former captain of W.E.S. After Lian... until he-”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14viyn4Fmk
The moment was interrupted by a distant memory.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCvaVvlsD87
A flashback of Seigennhart’s back turned, cloak fluttering as he walked away.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT1063i9B7O
“Do you think we could ask him for help if we ever get in serious danger?” Renji asked.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwe2pjj4f2x
Seriya perked up.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsGmXrveaN
“Oh! I know who you’re talking about Seigennhart, right? The Grandeur Hero?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡawclXI5mVA
Leeway gave a faint, tired smile. It didn't reach his eyes.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJ76tqYcLE
“Sigh… I doubt he’ll help us now.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpUSzj7yaeb
He looked up, as if trying to find something in the ceiling or in the sky beyond it.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4MMqQABRRh
(“Seigennhart… where could you be? Where could you be hiding?”)139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ32R5buE4Wc
(“I just hope you’re in good condition. We were close friends, after all.”)139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡahJtTOXzRs
Seriya clapped her hands together, breaking the quiet.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJsaZ9JM4dJ
“Oh come on, guys! We’re Exist! We were trained to beat Lost Morphs that stand in our way!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGpswaEFSJ
The team nodded, rallying behind her energy, but they all knew this mission would test them more than any before.
Rylee’s Log:139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhn8Kc8oT1G
“During the experimental incidents, the group known as Exist fulfilled the role of defending Alien Technologies’ Main Quarters. They represent one of the ancient combat orders from before the new era.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0F1CY2xt6G
“Unlike Hybrids, Exist members are pure humans. They possess no psychic abilities, no internal dimensional enhancements. Their only edge relentless physical conditioning, combat expertise, and access to weapons far beyond the public’s reach.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX4Tp0D633Q
“These weapons were not mass-produced. They were engineered by the original Prodigies of Alien Technology. That’s what makes them unique and deadly.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaG7DVF6JrJ
“We classify them into generations.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHOBuxmdwaS
“The First Generation: comprised of enhanced knives and swords. Elegant, simple… but deadly.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1vQy4OXgtf
The Second Generation includes guns and lasers ranged weapons engineered with energy converters, recoil dampeners, and plasma amplification cores. Designed for precision and speed, these weapons are perfect for medium- to long-range combat.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8pE9J0zDMI
“The Third Generation comprises modified gauntlets or combat gloves. These aren’t ordinary melee enhancers. They’re equipped with kinetic amplifiers, energy shields, and even pulse emitters. Many Exist members prefer these for close-quarters battles.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSVvZxJyfpL
“Lastly, the Fourth Generation encompasses motorcycles and other land crafts. These machines aren’t just for mobility they’re made for battle. Outfitted with offensive and defensive modules, some are even capable of limited vertical propulsion and stealth operations.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEYR7xlSq4z
“Each generation of weapons possesses its own unique attributes and statistics, allowing users to modify them according to their preferences. The term ‘generation’ is used not just as a label but as a timeline each weapon was born in a different era, reflecting the growth of our civilization’s technological understanding.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTh0Vz0FuN
“We may not be Hybrids… but with these tools, we are still warriors.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0iIiJajayP
Silence. A beat of uncertainty. The pause before the storm.
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaKlGtaJS49
I wasn’t there with them… but I could still feel them.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0rkPNkfyi
Every voice, every shift in mood it echoed faintly in the space between us, like a whisper I wasn't supposed to hear. They were preparing. They were nervous. And I wasn’t there to lead them this time.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr3hkjg2Pf8
Renji was the first to speak. “You’re right, let’s go get umm, wait.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfdVKcyxPP8
Leeway, ever the composed captain, responded calmly, “Captain, where are we going again? I didn’t discuss it with you guys ‘cause we’re still letting the maintenance team check the durability of our weapons.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7sDX6pmprE
Just then, Junichi arrived, flanked by a handful of W.E.S members. Each of them carried repolished weapons, gleaming with precision blades, gauntlets, energy rifleslaid out carefully on the steel tables.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡld7uqJ0vmr
“Okay everyone, here are your weapons,” Junichi announced with a smile. “All polished and ready.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7HiQYzeHbn
Leeway nodded with gratitude. “Professor! We wouldn’t be here without your efforts. Thank you for taking the time to repolish everything, even though you’re busy!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ32Emy0Ao9E
Junichi chuckled. “Oh no, don’t sweat it. I’m in charge of the Engineering Department after all. Fixing and exploring mechanical crafts it’s what I do.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaikYvGHVGw
The crew responded with quiet professionalism, taking their weapons with a mix of reverence and readiness. These weren’t just tools. For them, they were lifelines.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCSiVh86Sx
Leeway took a moment before asking, “Professor, I hope everything is still in good condition at Zemstan…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnL5txsYNo
Junichi gave a tired yet confident smile. “Oh, don’t worry. We’ve got everything under control. We may be lacking energy resources to fully perform our duties… but I know everything will be okay soon.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk03wHUMLxj
“We will do our best to meet your expectations,” Leeway said, his voice carrying the weight of a promise. The rest of the crew stood up straight and saluted as one, their expressions firm.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI14qfBZcGh
Junichi looked around the room one last time. “Wish you all good luck. And be safe.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyHXovmbvih
He turned and walked out, leaving the team in a moment of silence.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKJaAoE0N7
Renji exhaled. “I always get nervous when a member of Zemstan comes to our quarters… They can be very scary.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwamcMndGqj
Dachiryo, leaning casually against a table, added, “Being a scientist was my first dream, but I guess I’m better at handling weapons.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡusaQ1SCUNv
Seriya smirked, her tone light. “Oh Dachiryo, always confident with himself.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBJCHcDBKFV
Leeway didn’t smile. He stood up straight and began to speak with more gravity.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcuEc11TgV2
“Alright guys, we’re about to leave the campus. Our mode of transportation is ready.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFufmwPDqj
He glanced at them one by one his teammates, his responsibility.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSAEVu3cjOr
“But before we depart, I must inform you all of what we are about to undertake.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhGTiSMCBT
And just like that, I could feel the shift.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrGa9HMzjB
They were on the edge of something real.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAaM1VEy0td
Even from afar, even from wherever I was now… I could sense it.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWojx6LjFcg
They were stepping into my shadow.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWixfWQHbGi
And I could only hope it wouldn’t consume them.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsXy6h5nH0b
Leeway’s voice rang with resolve, cutting through the heavy air.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfYDWyaFrXL
“Our objective is to infiltrate a territory located in the south known as Greed Haven,” he declared to the crew. “It is crucial for us to remain vigilant at all times. We may encounter not just one hybrid… but potentially more than three.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJuoiGqZ3O
There was a pause, the kind that made your lungs feel heavier, your thoughts sharper.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAVRpVUr42E
“I hope everyone is in their best state of mind,” he continued. “This mission might prove to be one of the most challenging yet. Is that clear to everyone?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0Kq9KmhFr
The others straightened and saluted him with purpose.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8jRxIBLtQ
“Yes sir! Captain sir!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv4TtZs2qMs
Seriya squinted, tilting her head slightly. “But wait only four of us?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8jW1XrOic
Renji nodded. “Yeah. The rest of the crew needs to stay behind and stay on lookout duty, just in case a mutant comes in.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiE47DcW5vs
“Right,” Seriya muttered. “But… it’s been quiet ever since.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJUawOBPa4
Leeway didn’t flinch. “Okay. Let’s go.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwXkdNuqNiT
With that, the main W.E.S crew marched out, their boots echoing against the pavement as they exited the campus. Outside, they approached their ride an angular, high-performance vehicle waiting just at the base of the slope. The sleek hull shimmered in the light.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJlxpD0ETZ8
The Quantum Cruiser.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHsd9LnWyZ7
Renji grinned like a kid again. “Man, it’s been a while since I’ve felt a Quantum Cruiser thrill! Zemstan is the best. Thank you to our alien ancestors!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡex5yd23IeS
Seriya’s smile faltered, her voice turning softer. “Too bad Kyrie isn’t here with us. Every time we go on a dangerous mission like this… either he joins us, or he insists on going alone.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsDiCWd4yF8
“Worried again?” Dachiryo said, confident as ever. “I’m a hundred percent sure he’s fine. Wherever he is.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdfd7HX6i1v
Leeway climbed aboard first. “Let’s not waste any time. We’re moving out.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU4M0miEX1K
They all entered the cruiser in quick succession. The doors sealed with a hum, engines warming. The horizon stretched open before them bleak, vast, and uncertain.
Meanwhile Winterbourne Residence, Grandeur City139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwh8d451nyn
Snow gently tapped against the tall glass window.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuDk8gSYpDk
She sat in silence, a girl with quiet eyes, watching the world outside blur into white.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCTCcGTZV8N
Her fingers were still, resting on a patch of fabric folded in her lap. A familiar scent lingered in the fibers.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOt1KiiNBXP
“The smell of his clothes,” she whispered.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDVaxG0rBLx
She pressed the fabric gently to her lips.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrWKaapGwnn
“Whenever I sew it back together… and whenever I wash it… it always smells like him.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHwHPGqPels
Her room was quiet. Filled with the soft hum of the heater, the old wooden clock ticking faintly, and the distant life of a city too busy to notice a girl mourning in silence.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxVZ9xn8M2X
A knock echoed from the other side of the door.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqjwo7CACfR
“Ms. Rina?” It was Junichi’s voice. “May I come in?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdWibLJl5Nq
She looked toward the door, her expression unreadable, eyes dim but not empty.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpCIZxNIGrq
A long pause, and then:139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRXUMRTLMhR
“I see… so he went on a risky mission with Renji and the rest of the crew.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNigyI054x
She brushed her hair behind her ear.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ433nxfZ5M3
“Stubborn as always.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4EUhz5FpVH
Junichi’s voice softened from behind the door. “I hope it’s alright with you, Ms. Rina… There aren’t many around who can handle such a mission. But your brother can.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSVrhQSddWB
Junichi’s tone dipped a little lower as he lingered by the door.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVx1Qw1abzg
“…And Kyrie has been declared missing ever since.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUq8PA2p54
Rina’s reply came calm, almost too calm. “Ah, yes. I heard about his disappearance.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy8a7CFZKv2
She turned back to the window, the light casting gentle streaks across her cheek. Her fingers pressed against the fabric in her lap.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIolCRABw1s
“But you know what?” she said. “I believe in my brother’s will to accomplish such a mission.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdEpZl1a1R1
The room fell quiet again. Outside, the sky looked heavy gray and slow, like the breath before a storm.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkCybfxCyKk
“In case he doesn’t make it…” she said softly.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk6XhEYZPEO
Junichi blinked. “Huh?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkuwpx3GXPp
She didn’t flinch. “Someone might come to his rescue. Worst-case scenario.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZUVqQQxPLc
Junichi watched her closely. “Oh my… I don’t know who that someone might be,” he said, smiling gently, “but… let’s hope for the best.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGf331H7Gp
They both turned to the window again, wordless. The world outside remained still.
Greed Haven Quarters - South Continent139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡryjTqVsclW
The wind cut deeper than expected as we stood before the entrance. My coat helped, but barely.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdTFRFY4Va5
Renji grumbled beside me. “Geez… it’s freezing here, even with our coats on.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwLsnhDsi1P
Seriya sighed sharply. “Hush. Now’s not the time to keep whining. We need to concentrate.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSovFDdkIcw
Dachiryo crossed his arms. “Renji’s right, though. It’s colder than Grandeur.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlnHgF4CdQ
Leeway remained focused, eyes scanning the entrance. “Greed Haven is near the Ice Continent. The cold's expected.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigLPLL0NyJ
Renji glanced sideways at him. “You think Kiyon’s here? I mean… he was the cause of all these problems in the first place.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8xzXwT5aUb
Leeway didn’t answer right away. His expression didn’t change.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTYSNG1p7MN
“We’re about to find out.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYEawA7gTnL
We moved quietly into the quarters, boots pressing into frost-hardened floors. The place felt abandoned, too still.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3FN2kRKM7O
“No one’s around,” Renji muttered.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGH08j19FrE
Leeway nodded. “They don’t have tight security, but we may face something dangerous ahead. Keep your guard up.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs3FpoH0H43
“Yes, Captain,” Seriya answered quickly.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhgbjOXnxrE
We pressed forward, entering what looked like a dimly lit lab structure. Shadows bent against the corners of the walls, machines humming quietly beneath glass tubing and glowing control panels.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxLM8GCMNG
We moved like ghosts in the dark silent, alert, hands ready. We could see the shadows of scientists wandering nearby, unaware.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoEu9ujuaf9
Leeway’s voice crackled through the miniature comm clipped to my collar.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYdXZtnvqT1
“Looks like they’re busy with something. Over.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg64ZqotX7a
Seriya’s voice followed. “Looks like it, Captain. Over.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKXNMmYXVxG
Renji snorted softly through the line. “They don’t even know we’ve invaded their quarters. Over. Heh…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL9k3TFWse3
Dachiryo’s voice cut through last, his tone colder.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4xA8Xc668D
“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Copy.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4TBM93H4P
Leeway’s voice buzzed through my earpiece, steady and low.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp1ydjtYDQl
“Just follow my lead.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQ4taFSk2M
We moved silently, splitting formation. I caught sight of Renji, Seriya, and Dachiryo from across the corridor, their silhouettes briefly framed by dim red lights overhead.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwFGWlptoLU
A lone scientist walked toward a side room, unaware. Leeway slipped behind her like a passing shadow.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4dPdRCrNd2
“Huh?” she muttered, sensing something.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyDUJv9vUwX
Before she could turn fully, Leeway’s hand was already at her neck.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJdSFPFcQJ
“Give me your identification card,” he said coldly, “and maybe I’ll spare your life.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe0sVbYs3p8
The scientist trembled. “Please here! Just don’t kill me… I have a family.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM1QBbPjnm4
I held my breath as Leeway took the card with one hand. With the other, he injected her with a thin needle. The woman’s body slackened, folding silently to the ground.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf42TIqaxgH
Renji whispered, “Why kill her? She said she had a family…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3mG5VS29jK
Leeway didn’t flinch. “I didn’t kill her. She’s unconscious. Now come on.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUJJOvjqeX
We pressed forward through the narrow corridor. Each step echoed just faintly against metal tiles. Then the path split one stairwell winding up, the other descending into deeper dark.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPYU3h90Qqq
Renji muttered, “Okay, great. Now what?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkvd5EyGGQP
Seriya looked upward, thoughtful. “Hmm…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLnHCgOvml2
“Any ideas?” Renji added, glancing between them.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5CjXp5R2e
Dachiryo stepped forward. “From what I understand… the best secrets are always kept underground.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKPq6piIbmd
Leeway nodded. “Then we take the downstairs route.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡocQNRu1t31
Seriya hesitated. “Captain? Just to be sure are we not going to split up?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeRkFq8e5DI
Renji shot her a look. “Seriya, that’s a terrible idea!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr7Kt8zaoDL
Leeway raised a hand. “I don’t want to risk the team. We stay together.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSmCl3sgfed
Renji exhaled loudly. “Whew.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8YMLaNLUu
Seriya shrugged. “Right back at you, Captain.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ666ztAfc5t
Renji muttered under his breath, “Told you it was a terrible idea…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdhCeI3WYVN
We descended the steps, one floor at a time, until the metal walls gave way to sleek panels and sterile lighting. At the end of the hall, we found it RESEARCH ROOM stenciled on the door in stark white.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7DtkMuLrJq
“Looks like you guessed right, Dachiryo,” Renji said. “Research room.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkM9KxfdUeG
Leeway pulled out the scientist’s ID and swiped it through the panel.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCL3DOMZgR4
The door hissed open.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjS5pqjZd4x
Seriya hesitated. “Whoa… I’ve got a bad feeling about this.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqSv1zN2Qcc
Renji peered inside. “Are we sure this is even a research room? It’s way too spacious…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc4ZedkpXD6
Dachiryo narrowed his eyes. “Watch out. They let us in too easily. No backup. No resistance. It might be a trap.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU9OU0ibrVO
Leeway’s voice turned sharp. “Daichi’s right. This setup is way too convenient.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIh8vhPy8Pq
We stepped inside. The room swallowed us in silence wide, sterile, and empty. Our boots made faint clicks on the smooth floor. Cold lights above flickered faintly.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ46SjJgkG8y
As we fanned out, Seriya’s voice piped up from behind.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUprlFH2YHq
“Oh hey candy! Looks yummy.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvV3caunN0r
Renji hissed, “Come on! Now’s not the time to be eating that!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJENLIRKCq
Dachiryo shushed him. “Hush! Just keep looking.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ2QJeisxUK
Leeway’s voice cut through the silence as he approached a flickering terminal.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjusk2czJG9
“There must be a clue here somewhere...”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡolM1cbFsmf
He squinted at a small, thin object resting beside the keyboard.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIiK1BHrZf
“A thin-looking chip... something like a USB drive in our world.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDZl5ef2WXj
Leeway paused. “Rylee mentioned one with a black coat, stamped ‘Zemstan.’”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSoY0zBMqf0
Dachiryo rifled through the desks, eyes scanning every surface top, bottom, sides. Then he froze.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr4DOSopi4B
“Hey guys, looks like I found something.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7AlWugZy11
Before he could even think twice, Dachiryo moved toward a transparent case holding two tiny chips. His caution faltered.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9t0fP55CkR
Renji smiled, low and eager.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlnjWFSUeDa
“Finally.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pPCeKVJXu
Suddenly a bullet ripped through the air, fast and deadly.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQgfRw5Zg79
“Daichi! Look out!” Seriya shouted.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BR0tzDopI
Dachiryo’s eyes widened in shock as the bullet whizzed past him. Reflex took over he twisted, dropping to the floor just in time to avoid the shot.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQWf7jocXwV
Seriya dropped beside him, breathless. “Daichi! You okay?”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrLQBVvPNTF
He winced but nodded. “Yeah, it’s just a scratch. Don’t worry.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡILtUu17qtp
Leeway looked up, annoyed but calm.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyORyMSzGI9
“Tsk… I knew this would happen. Always does.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9zUEMkBjeG
His voice hardened. “Whoever you are, show yourselves!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfcDZLUun3
Suddenly, the ceiling cracked and a massive figure crashed down through the smoke with a thunderous impact.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmmVvPb5NQ5
Thick smoke billowed as the shadowy figure’s voice echoed, amused.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcbH7G1nVMc
“Well, well, well... finally some humans I can actually play with!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIOMTD9lDjD
Renji and Seriya both stiffened, eyes locked on the figure emerging from the haze.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Wi4c2ADGW
“I’ve been waiting days,” the voice continued, “and I’m starting to get bored of this lookout job!”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVTHdjQEKe
Leeway’s expression hardened, deadly serious.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyF2Dk1fZl
The smoke began to clear, revealing a towering, muscular form.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAle1rW4WiA
Maximus.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wu8TsURuY
His grin was cold, his presence overwhelming.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLnlKVRKcCW
Leeway’s voice was steady but filled with steel:139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgr4rLPixeb
“You’re in bad luck.”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFSS1ejJKK8
Renji whispered, awestruck, “Damn, he’s huge…”139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVuo6WksoJ
Seriya cringed, bracing herself.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJ3rANsJ3p
The room seemed to shrink around us as the final confrontation loomed.
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Tq6pjiOsU
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiSLcOzRodt
