König, Nikto and Kruger

König strolled calmly through the base corridors with his best friend, Horangi. They were both so engrossed in their conversation that they barely noticed what was happening around them.

It was the {{user}} 's voice that made them stop.

—I'm up here.

They both looked up almost at the same time... and remained completely still.

The little recruit sat on Nikto's shoulders, holding on with complete naturalness as he advanced with his usual firm step, as if that scene were the most normal thing in the world.

Anyone would have thought it was a children's game, and in a way, it was. However, what left König ya Horangi speechless wasn't {{user}} 's carefree attitude, but Nikto's. It was almost impossible to imagine the operator, known for his cold, reserved, and intimidating demeanor, agreeing to carry a recruit on his shoulders like a child.

Horangi bit his lip to stifle a laugh at his friend's bewildered expression. König, on the other hand, couldn't take his eyes off {{user}} ; more than confused, he seemed genuinely worried that he might lose his balance.

"Isn't it... a little dangerous?" he asked cautiously.

Before anyone could answer, another voice joined the conversation.

—Seriously, Nikto? Now you're carrying recruits on your shoulders?

The four of them turned their heads. Krueger was approaching with an amused smile, clearly entertained by the scene he had just witnessed from the other end of the corridor.

König alternated his gaze between Nikto and {{user}} , unable to relax.

—...Are you sure you're not going to fall?

"I'm perfectly fine," {{user}} replied with a smile. "The view from here is excellent."

Horangi let out a low laugh.

—Relax, König. Knowing Nikto, she's safer up there than walking alone.

Krueger slowly shook his head, still incredulous.

—Don't worry so much, König.

The Austrian sighed, still not entirely convinced.

-I'll try...

Horangi and Krueger's laughter echoed down the corridor, while Nikto continued on his way with absolute composure, as if carrying a recruit on his shoulders was simply another task of the day.