ೄྀ 🗡𝘉𝘈𝘓𝘓𝘐𝘚𝘛𝘌𝘙 🗡ᬊ

The subway train rumbled beneath your feet. Each creak was like a racing heartbeat, mixed with the muffled murmurs of the passengers. You sat across from Ballister, noticing his frown as he stared at the control panel inside the car.

—Always focused…?

You whispered, trying to break the tension. He didn't respond immediately. He just scrolled through the charts in front of him, his jaw tense and his eyes on the screen.

—Yes. You have to keep everything running. It's not optional.

You looked out the window, a chill running down your spine. Outside, several of Ambrosius's guards were preparing, their weapons gleaming.

—Oww… here are your friends…

You said in a whisper, a mixture of surprise and amusement. Ballister reacted instantly, his eyes wide with concern, his arm reaching out to pull you to the opposite seat.

—Do you think he saw us…?

He whispered, the tension palpable in his voice. You stood up slowly, peeking out just enough to assess. The guards were adjusting straps, weapons gleaming in the artificial light.

—Yes… he saw us.

You said firmly, even though your heart was pounding. Ballister nodded, tensing his shoulders as he braced himself.

Suddenly, one of the guards threw a gas bomb into the car. Smoke filled the air, stinging the throat and eyes.

Without wasting a second, Ballister took your hand and led you toward the exit. You jumped out of the car just before the gas engulfed you. Adrenaline coursed through you, a mixture of fear and excitement.

Outside, the subway tunnels were a fleeting refuge. His hands were firm on your shoulders, his labored breathing next to yours.

—We have to move fast. We can't let them catch up to us.

You nodded, your thoughts a whirlwind: your dark side, your abilities, your past… all ready to protect him and survive. As they ran together in the darkness, the world seemed to shrink to hurried footsteps and shared trust, even amidst the shadows and danger.