Ilustración: Hybrid-Kira (2024)

By the time the rescue team came to our aid, five days had already passed. Five days taking refuge in this cold hole in the ground. Surviving on the few provisions we have carried with us. Being slowly consumed by uncertainty.

Our confinement in the bunker passed with monotony and discouragement, losing sense of time a little each day; Sleeping, rationing supplies, caring for the wounded, and checking the radio became our daily routine. Watching the sunlight stream through the periscope was our only form of entertainment, and also the only thing that kept us hopeful enough not to fall into despair.

Taking care of Saemus and tending to his wounds was the only thing that kept the squad in relative peace. After the fiasco of our failed mission created tensions within the squad itself, we all agreed that he needed a quiet environment where he could recover from his injuries. When he regained consciousness on the second day, we had to tell him what had happened. Saemus was unable to believe that this was true and not a simple nightmare, and once he was able to accept the truth, he blamed himself for not being strong, fast, or skillful enough to prevent this from happening. Saemus mourned the loss of our friends, just as we had. It would take days to convince him that none of this had been his fault.

Someone else woke up that same day; Our unplanned passenger whom we mistook for my father was able to muster the strength to stand up, but unlike Saemus, this man was loud, asked too many questions, and didn't miss a single opportunity to violently threaten anyone and everyone of the squadron elements, especially the hybrids. I did my best to keep Iker away from that man, distracting him from the endless curses and other ranting that annoying individual insisted on expressing. My concern was valid; When it came to Iker, making him share space with a poacher was a ticking time bomb, but to everyone's surprise, he himself decided to ignore it completely.

However, the one who was not able to tolerate the Vortex hostage's tantrums any longer was the person we least expected it from. The exact moment he let his guard down, the man received a generous dose of sedatives that kept him drugged for the rest of our stay in the bunker, administered by our very own Field Doctor; Tori. Everyone in the squad sighed in relief, although there were times when the silence was deafening, and whether we wanted to admit it or not, having a common enemy had temporarily united us as the team we were supposed to be.

With nothing meaningful to do but wait for our eventual rescue, I dedicated my days and nights to merging with the sheets of my stretcher, closing my eyes, but unable to fall asleep. Iker tried everything to keep me alert and get me out of my depressive state, but on the third day he also seemed to lose his will, and he limited himself to keeping me company, lying next to me without saying anything else. Although, in a strange way, his silent company calmed my thoughts, and allowed me to sleep at times.

On the fifth day, the Cilt Warriors finally came to our rescue, and opened the bunker doors. Their silhouettes, completely obscured by the morning light behind them, were the unmistakable shadows of Rangers; brave Warriors and Hunters who have left Cilt with the sole mission of finding us, and escorting us on our way back home. I felt like a prisoner being rescued from a traumatic confinement, almost forgetting what it was like to see sunlight. The rescue team cautiously entered the interior of the bunker, and after giving us worried glances and ensuring that we were all fit to travel, we proceeded to leave the bunker as soon as possible.

I turned back before boarding the interior of the hybrid Warrior that would transport me to Cilt, I observed the city of Kiem in the distance. Remembering again and again Kassia's last look, the one she gave us when she ordered us to leave her behind.

I remembered the promise I made before leaving; To be obedient, and do everything in my power to follow Darius' orders, for my own good and that of everyone else.

Something deep inside me was sure that she already knew her fate, even before leaving Cilt. That she already knew she was not coming back.

Sheltered by the attentive care of our brave rescuers, we advanced in a slow and silent march through the neutral lands.

Defeated and wounded, we finally returned home.

____________________________________________________________________

Another two days of travel and multiple stops that were necessary to ensure we did not demand too much of our wounded, and it was not until we saw the H tower in the distance that we felt a much-needed breath of hope, and the necessary momentum to finish our journey.

Our arrival in Cilt went unnoticed, since the curfew and the suspension of missions of all ranks have made citizens prefer to stay in their homes. The empty streets fill me with a chill that I had only felt when walking through the streets surrounding the periphery of the Metropolis; Like I shouldn't be here right now. Despite everything, I was relieved to finally find myself back within the safe walls of the city.

The medical staff received us with sober effectiveness as soon as we arrived at the hospital. The place was only inhabited by the Medics who were already waiting for our arrival. No prying eyes to witness our arrival, no crowds cheering. Just a shameful and empty silence.

A tall messenger in dark clothes stood out among the white coats of the Medics. He remained attentive to the evaluations that the Medics gave of each of us to determine if we needed to be admitted to the hospital or not, and while that was taking place, the messenger let us know that he has waited all day for our return, and he had direct orders from Leader Darius to escort anyone not in need of urgent medical attention directly to the command room.

Tori handed our passenger over to the care of her medical colleagues, warning them of his aggressive tendencies when he was not sedated. Saemus refused to be taken to a room for his recovery, even though he needed it the most, but after a brief talk with Adara, she managed to convince him to stay. Everyone else followed Darius's messenger.

After being guided through the endless and intricate corridors of the underground facilities that connect the hospital with the laboratory, we finally arrived at the command room; A large circular room flanked by monitors and consoles of controllers specialized in communications. The entrance to the room was guarded by two bulky hybrid guards, the same ones who regularly guard the doors of the Council Dome, who instead of fixing their analytical vision directly on us, seemed to look at us with empathy the moment they let us pass.

A single soul inhabited this lonely place; Leader Darius remains still at the back of the command room, turning his back our way, with the monitor in front of him being the only one that remains turned on. His silent meditation did not seem to be disturbed by our presence. Our mission controller who has been taking care of us remotely all this time has not left his post for even a second since the day we left Cilt.

Zenda sighed as she saw her son again after what seemed like an eternity, and was the first to notice Darius' unusual behavior. She was the only one who had the courage to break the invisible barrier between him and us, and make sure Darius was aware that we had returned. The veteran Warrior approached Darius silently and delicately, calling his name in a soft, whispering voice, keeping several meters away. But there was no answer.

She then walks until she is right next to him. Darius was sleeping soundly in his place, resting his nose on the monitor that bathed his face in a dim blue light that made him look exhausted. Next to him was a pile of blankets perfectly folded and organized, a coffee maker that had been left on without water or coffee, and a headset with a microphone for hybrid use, still connected to the computer. Despite the apparent cleanliness and organization of the place, the beloved and respected Leader was not in good shape.

With the little maternal touch that was still left in her tired body, Zenda caressed her son's face with her nose, causing an immediate reaction that made him startle, waking up suddenly in the process. Darius seemed to take a few seconds to process what was happening; His eyes showed fear and surprise, and it was difficult for him to formulate any words. Zenda moved a few inches closer until she touched her son's nose with her own, and Darius sighed, draining all the fear and uncertainty from him as he realized that what he was seeing at that moment was not a product of his imagination.

- ... Mother... -

- Easy, my child... Here I am. - Zenda contained her feelings for the sake of her son, simply reaffirming that they were back, smiling with subtle warmth towards him -

Darius turned to look at the rest of us for a moment, taking a visual count of who was in the room at that moment. He looked down when he didn't meet the only eyes he was looking for. He looked back at his mother, swallowed forcefully, and cleared his tone of voice, trying to get rid of his feelings.

- How's everybody? ... How are you? Have the Medics checked you yet? - Darius performs a visual check on Zenda, while she reassures him that she is not injured -

- We're fine, Tori watched over us like a guardian angel out there. We just need to rest, that's all. - Zenda maintains a calm and controlled tone, all in order not to upset Darius too much -

- Good, good... -

Darius was clearly suffering from emotional shock, being unable to express in any way what he was feeling at that moment. He seemed anxious despite his rigid posture, and his eyes did not stop dancing in panic as he looked at his mother. It wasn't fear of her, but the fear of almost losing her too. Zenda knows her son better than anyone, and she couldn't afford to leave him stranded in that mental pit any longer. She had to get him out of there, somehow, even if he tried to keep her away from him at all costs.

- You look tired... I assume you've been here all week... Have you eaten enough? -

- ...I'm not hungry... I wanted to wait until everyone came back and...and... -Darius' voice breaks inadvertently. He is silenced as he clenches his jaw, and a silent tear runs down his face without his consent, as he shakes his head in denial, stepping back with a trembling step.

Zenda caresses her son's face to calm him down, but that only broke him, in the end.

Darius sobs at his mother's comfort, something none of us were ready to witness. His pain, sadness and despair filled the room, leaving us all in a deathly and bitter silence. Darius hides his face from us, and I don't feel worthy of even showing my face, because I feel like I have failed him, Ciro, Kassia, and everyone who ever placed a little trust in me. The feeling is overwhelming, but my eyes can no longer produce another tear, instead, my fist trembles in helplessness. Beside me, Adara seems to have finally been overcome by her own feelings, and she sits on the floor on her knees, trying to hold back her tears.

Darius has forced himself to take a deep breath and collect himself, and despite his mother's visible concern, it only took him a few seconds to retreat back into his stoic facade. He couldn't allow himself to be seen like this much longer.

- ...Mission report. -Darius barely left his mother's embrace, and without looking towards the squad, he questions us with a faint, although authoritative voice, to which no one wants to respond at first. Until Adara decides to stand up for us, even while she was still kneeling on the ground-

- ...We arrived in Kiem on the specified day and time... At the moment of the exchange, Neyzan, with the help of former scientist Killian, were able to discover our strategy, and we could not do anything about it... The situation was about to get out of control, if it weren't for Tyler acting in time, and managing to establish a dialogue again between both sides. -The mere mention of my name takes me by surprise, but Darius does not seem to react to any information that Adara provided him. Despite this, she continues with the report- ...The exchange continued, and Neyzan handed over the prisoner... but we did not act fast enough, and it was too late by the time we realized that the prisoner was not Marcus. General Kassia refused to hand the prisoner back to the Vortex, and we began to flee Kiem... The chase ended when we reached the bridge. Then Ciro... He made the bridge collapse so the Vortex couldn't reach us... and was swept away by the current of the river. We haven't heard from him since. -Adara must stop for a moment and sigh, because remembering the tragedy was something she did not want to remember, but it was necessary-... After that we continued our retreat. Neyzan and the surviving Vortex hunted us for several kilometers, until we realized that they would catch up with us before we could reach the safety of the bunker... General Kassia sacrificed herself for us to confront the Vortex on her own, and buy us enough time to reach the bunker safely.

Adara's voice trembled as she mentioned those last words. She really struggled not to sob in front of Darius, because her tears were at the same time of sadness and sorrow. The Supreme Leader did not take his gaze off the ground, he did not react to anything Adara had said. He simply remains lost in his thoughts, with his gaze blank, which ends up causing enormous remorse in Adara's mind, so conflicted that the same pain did not allow her to maintain her calm much longer.

- ...I'm sorry...my Leader. You and the General trusted me for this mission... and I failed you... I will accept the consequences of my actions but please... Give me a chance to show you my loyalty...

- Get up.

Darius gives the order to Adara, which sends an electric current down my spine as I fear the worst. She looks up for the first time since we arrived, and with genuine fear on her face, she stands back up while hugging herself. I had the impulse to take her hand, but I stopped myself when I saw that Darius wouldn't give us even a second to prepare for his verdict.

- From now on, Saemus will take your place as Captain of Squad 15. The burden of managing a squad will no longer be yours. -I could see the pupils in Adara's eyes grow smaller, she dug her nails into her shoulder where she had her prized Hunter rank tattooed, and the air from her lungs left her body with a heave. But just before she had time to process Darius's decision to revoke her position as captain, he continued speaking-...I need you to be ready, and strong. This afternoon, you will be appointed as the new Leader of the Hunters. Before this mission, Kassia expressed to me the great trust she had in you. She wanted you to inherit one of her ranks, in case something happened to her. -Darius turns to look at Adara in her eyes, seeing her like equals-... Are you willing to follow this wish of hers?

Adara remains silent, unable to even formulate a response to what she had just heard from her own Leader. Overwhelmed by Kassia's expectations, and being pushed by her feeling of responsibility for what had happened during the mission, she really had no choice.

She took a deep breath, straightened her posture, and by delivering a resounding blow to her chest with her right fist, Adara sealed her fate as the new head of the Cilt Hunters.

- So be it. -Adara exhaled firmly, directing her sad promises to the ground on which she was standing-

Darius gave a small bow to Adara's bravery and dedication, and then gave a tired and empathetic look at the rest of us who have remained passive until this moment.

- Please, everyone go get medical attention, and rest. Tomorrow will be another day. -It was clear that he no longer wanted to have to interact with us anymore, and all he wanted at that moment was to have the opportunity to process his loss. But before we turned around, a single question plagued my mind, one that wouldn't let me rest if I didn't voice it-

- ...What should we tell everyone?... -The faces of hundreds of confused citizens passed through my mind, all with the same need for answers to what has happened out there. They all have a right to know, but at the end of the day, it is up to the current Leaders to decide what is best for everyone-

Darius thought about my question for several seconds, and after a long, deep sigh that seemed to use up the last bit of his will, he looked me in the eyes, with a look of defeat that I never expected from him.

- ... The truth.

Darius did not wish to speak to anyone else. He turned his back on us without further explanation or formalities, and took refuge again in his thoughts. Zenda would stay in the care of her son, while the rest of us were guided back to the hospital, on our way to receive the medical care and rest we so desperately needed, some more urgently than others. Our paths eventually parted, without goodbyes or a "see you later", our team of Hunters and Warriors has gone down in history without much decorum. But at least Iker and I stayed together at all times.

The news in Cilt spread quickly, so much so that when we entered the hospital again, a crowd aside from the medical staff was already waiting for us at the reception, and it was necessary for the Medics themselves to make way for us to escort us directly to the room where we would be housed.

Fortunately, and quite possibly because of my fault, Iker and I have been assigned to the same room without even questioning us. Apparently the incident last time made them understand that it was better not to separate us, because we would find a way to reunite anyway. It was better this way, since company will be what we will need most during our recovery, being completely isolated from the rest of the world.

Once alone in our hospital room, sheltered from the storm of questions from nosy people, my first impulse is to walk to the sink and turn on the tap, letting the cold water run through my fingers, cleaning away the dirt that has accumulated on my skin. An entire week without access to running water and surviving on limited provisions has made me aware of how little I have valued my comfortable everyday life, living in the city without having to fight for my life in the neutral lands.

When I looked up and looked in the mirror, for a few moments, I didn't recognize the person looking back at me. That look of hope and determination when I saw my body wearing the Warrior armor for the first time has disappeared forever. Now there was only a look of desolation and shame, and denial towards what had happened, of disappointment towards the person who had returned empty-handed, and with an even more broken heart than before.

My mind seems to finally understand that I have returned home, and that there is no need to run anymore. I cling to the sink as if my life depended on it, and just like the water running out of the faucet, the tears finally find their way in silence.

Without saying a single word, Iker offered his body as support as he sensed that my strength was lacking. He didn't try to console me, nor did he reassure me that everything would be okay. He simply limited himself to keeping me company, because not even he himself was sure that things were really going to get better.

____________________________________________________________________

Iker and I were discharged a few hours after entering the hospital. Our wounds were only superficial, and we convinced the Medics that we will rest better in our small apartment instead of staying in a cold hospital room. After having taken a more than obligatory shower, and wearing clean, fresh clothes for the first time after what seemed like an eternity of confinement in the bunker, Iker and I were free. Finally.

The afternoon was unusually dark and cold. Menacing rain clouds move slowly but surely overhead. The absence of citizens at this hour could only be due to one thing; We have all been summoned to the Stone Podium this afternoon, to present the new high ranks.

Halfway to the city center, Iker seems to change his mind at the last minute, and suggests that we better go directly to the apartment, all in order not to attend the town meeting. But as much as I wanted to go and rest once and for all, and take refuge from the world in our safe place, I couldn't afford not to attend the ceremony, and I wouldn't forgive myself for not being there to support Adara at least with my presence, especially in this difficult time for her. Iker was not entirely happy with my decision, but in the end he had no choice but to accept it, and let me go on my own.

Our paths parted, and I continued my solo journey towards the Stone Podium without knowing what would await me there. As soon as I could see other citizens traveling the same path as me, a deep-rooted habit made me cover my head with the cap of my jacket, trying to go as unnoticed as possible, but that did not seem to be too big a problem for now, since so many hybrids and humans had their attention focused elsewhere.

Hundreds of humans and hybrids have gathered at the foot of the Stone Podium. On this, the human Leaders guard the podium; Edurne was wearing an elegant white coat, formal black pants, and high heels that I had never seen her wear before, as well as a black sash across her chest with her respective ranks embroidered in golden thread. In her hands she holds what appears to be a carefully folded brown and white animal skin.

On his side, Leander wears a black shirt with a tie, an unusual color for the simple man who usually wears happier colors, but now this was the exception. The human Leader has replaced his work overalls with a pair of dress pants that, although old and faded, still give the impression of being the best clothes in his closet. Likewise, Leander wears a black sash, showing his lone Leader rank on it, and in his hands is a band very similar to his, but much larger. Human leaders keep their positions in silence, without responding to the constant questions of their citizens, who patiently wait for the words of their Leaders.

The minutes pass, and the murmurs among the population become increasingly louder, increasing speculation about what would happen now. The lack of something to keep them focused on the podium is starting to make me nervous, since it would only take one of the people next to me to recognize me to lead to an endless questioning about our mission, and I was not willing to share more information than they probably already know about. Now I was beginning to understand Iker's concern about attending the ceremony, and I was about to turn around and go back the way I came, if it weren't for the fact that the murmuring seems to be falling silent little by little, being replaced by a respectful silence towards the individuals who made their way through the audience.

Darius, Zenda and Adara walk firmly and silently through the corridor that the citizens have guarded especially for them, the Warriors arranged as a living barrier make a respectful bow as soon as they see the Supreme Leader pass in front of them.

Darius, in addition to being decorated with his own sash of golden ranks on his left door, sports a robust and intimidating custom-designed armor, made of kevlar like the rest of the Cilt Warriors' armor, black in color with details in red, with large and threatening red blades attached to both sides of his chin, designed to pierce his enemies who dare to get too close, but today, they only served as a reminder of his commitment to the safety of his people.

Zenda wears full armor for the first time since I've known her, this one being designed to be lighter and more mobile than her son's heavy armor. White tribal paintings decorate her dark skin, and despite her serene and confident demeanor, great weight was evident in her eyes and in her walk.

Adara wears a new, modern, shiny armor that is darker gray than her previous armor, since her old silver armor was unusable after the bridge accident. Her new chestplate did not show the number "15" of her squad, this being replaced by the imposing Hunter Leader rank in bright red. She may no longer be a captain, but that did not take away her right to continue wearing a red rank. Her curly hair has been transformed into a thick braid that starts from her scalp and goes down to the middle of her back, being adorned with small wild flowers that have been woven into her hair with care and affection. A simple yet colorful red tribal paint decorates her face and arms. As a final part of her ceremonial uniform, Adara carries with her a simple metal spear, one of her prefered weapons.

After instructing Adara and Zenda to remain at the foot of the podium for now, Darius climbs the steep ramp to take his place with his fellow Leaders who, for the first time in Cilt's history, are only three in number. The hallway they have previously passed through quickly fills with citizens, with the Warriors closest to Zenda, and the Captains of the Hunter squads, being in the front row. Saemus has gotten permission to leave the hospital even though his wounds are still delicate, and the rest of his Hunter colleagues make way for him to be right in front.

The great hybrid Leader takes his time to observe his people, his eyes filled with a permanent sadness, barely able to keep his emotions at bay. His fellow Leaders approached him to indicate that they were ready, and once the current Leaders were in position, Darius decided to proceed, once and for all.

- Dear citizens... We have called you today to give the official statement about the events that have taken place this last week. We know that the information that has been provided has not been entirely clear, and out of respect for our comrades who are not with us right now... you all deserve to know the truth. -Darius's voice weakened at the end of his sentence, making him sigh audibly. Edurne placed her delicate hand on Darius and stepped forward, causing the hybrid Leader to step back into formation. He knew that he was on the verge of tears and that it would be a matter of time until he lost his nerve, and that was not an image he wanted the citizens to remember. Instead, he resigns himself to Edurne breaking bad news to the expectant town.

- Leader Kassia has been taken prisoner by Neyzan's clan during their latest mission to rescue Marcus Hopper. We have no knowledge of her location, nor the conditions in which she is being held captive, but we have more than enough clues that indicate that she is still alive, as is another of our closest colleagues, Councilor Ciro, who was missed in battle against the Vortex.

A sea of ​​murmurs, laments, cries and rage manifest among the citizens, horrified by the news that two of the most loved and respected members of Cilt society were out there, at the mercy of Neyzan and his Vortex. The Leaders do not make an attempt to calm the crowd, because they knew that such news was not easy for anyone to process, not even for those of us who have witnessed such events with our own eyes.

The heated discussion between hybrids and humans, ranked and unranked citizens, old and young, seemed to calm down for a moment, although the silence allowed a few determined voices to shout in the direction of the podium, and their Leaders.

- We must do something! We can't stay here doing nothing! Not when the General and Ciro are out there fighting for their lives! -A young hybrid raises his voice among the public, starting a spontaneous war cry that jumps from citizen to citizen, each one with their arguments for and against-

- Yes, we must fight! They've already taken so much from us, it's time to show them what we're made of!

- It's easy for you to say that, you're not even a Warrior! You have no idea what the Vortex are capable of...

- So you'd rather the Vortex get their way? And let them get used to the fact that their actions have no consequences?! No! We must show them that our patience has run out, and make them pay for what they have done to us!

Angry roars and shouts support the violent initiative that a few have proposed, while those who remain against the conflict make their disagreement known with shouts and insults. Everything has escalated into a circus of arguments and raw emotions, and it was time for the Leaders to intervene, before this escalated in magnitude.

- Listen! We won't get anywhere if we behave like this with each other, so please, stay calm. -Leander makes a good attempt to calm the waters, but that did not stop the boldest voices from revealing themselves under direct instructions from one of their leaders-

- What good does it do for us to stay calm?! Every minute we spend here doing nothing is a minute that the Vortex has an advantage over us... -The enraged anonymous citizen pushes his way to the foot of the podium, seeking to make direct eye contact with Darius, who until that moment, had kept out of the discussion- ...Leader Darius, please listen, you have already shown too much mercy towards those savages for eight years... And what good has it been? Let us fight! ...Wouldn't that be what the General would do if she were in your place?

The cruel questioning is incessant, and multiple voices join the group complaint. It seemed that, at this specific time and place, the citizens did not seem entirely happy with their peaceful Leader. Darius showed surprise in his gesture, and shrinked under his armor. He folded his mirrors to his body, a gesture that the Supreme Leader would not show if it were not for the fact that he was not there, at least not for the moment, since Darius seemed to still be too lost in his grief to consciously control all his expressions, just as he has always done. His gesture did not go unnoticed by his mother among everyone present, and that made her furious.

- How dare you say that?! ...Can't you have a little empathy and common sense?! -

Her voice resounded like a ferocious roar that silenced everyone, even those who believed they were right to question their Leader. No one corrected Zenda's attitude, one could even say that many of us were grateful that those ignorant people, who could not see beyond their anger, were put in their place.

Once Zenda has once again restored silence and order, she still hasn't satisfied her protective instinct, nor her need to slap some sense into the heads of everyone present. The Warrior gives a look of disgust towards the public, and no one dared to look her in the eyes

- ...Look at you. Thinking you are ready for a war. Running away from the war is the only thing that keeps us alive to this day! ...But people have very short memories, right? I guess I should remind you that we are war refugees, and as refugees, our duty is to protect each other, not to spread hatred or violence. So think twice before asking for a war... because I assure you, none of you want to be in one.

I felt Zenda's furious words echo in my chest like the manifestation of everything I needed to hear, and for a moment, a spark of hope flickered amidst the realization that there was nothing else we could do. It was a bittersweet feeling. All it took was one opportunity for Zenda to remind everyone of the reason why this society was founded in the first place, and to give a shock of reality to all those blinded by hate. It was true, Cilt began as a refuge for all those who fled the war between humans and hybrids, and declaring war on the Vortex would be to desecrate that same principle of peace that so many have suffered and died to build. There was no doubt that if there was anyone with enough wisdom and awareness to replace Kassia on the Council of Leaders, it was Zenda, and the sudden realization that I was witnessing something historic right before my eyes hit me. I was in the presence of the new Leader of Cilt.

The citizens responsible for Zenda's fury looked at each other, some with doubt, others with resignation, but only a few of them showed genuine repentance, and they demonstrated it by bowing in the direction of their Leaders, who remained silent during Zenda's sermon. Darius had the opportunity to take control of the situation, and once he felt ready, he walked to the edge of the Stone Podium, looking out over his people, and letting them all see him. Those repentant subjects did not have the courage to look Darius in the eyes, to which he simply gave a look of disappointment, and preferred to continue with the ceremony, as planned from the beginning.

Adara is the first to be summoned to the Stone Podium. She is positioned right in the center of the ceremonial building, with the five pillars witnessing the appointment of a new high rank. Turning her back to the audience, Adara has a personal conversation with Edurne, who despite the circumstances in which she has to hand over the mantle of leadership to her, remains as gentle and compassionate as ever.

- I think I am the most appropriate person to give you this...

Edurne unwraps the deer skin she has been carrying all this time, and with a delicate hug, she wraps Adara's left shoulder with the beautifully crafted piece of leather, securing it with a strap that rests across her chest and is held at her side. It was a majestic deer pelt cloak that covered Adara's entire left arm. It was not necessary to know too much about the traditions of Cilt to understand that this was a totem; a symbol of her new position in the hierarchy, the physical manifestation of her leadership.

- Taking someone else's ranks is not easy. I know it... -Edurne lovingly caresses the ranks tattooed on her hands, the same ones that belonged to my father before he disappeared, and that she now had to carry. Edurne took Adara's hands, who was on the verge of tears despite her honorable appointment, since this ceremony was not a cause for celebration. But Adara kept her feelings at bay, out of respect for Edurne-... But just remember... you're not alone. You can always find comfort in those who stay close to you. You are ready for this, never doubt about it. -With a gentle gesture, Edurne tells Adara to turn around, this time to face the people-

Adara wore the deer pelt with honor, trying to not let her shoulders look heavy as she now had to carry her new rank. As of now, she had become the highest authority of the Cilt Hunters, and despite the events that have led us to this moment, I felt fortunate and honored to be here to witness this moment. To be here to be her witness.

- Cilt Hunters! Do you accept Adara as your new Leader?

Saemus, now the new captain of Squad 15, steps forward, and with his powerful, hoarse voice declares to the four winds his blind loyalty to his beloved, and his new authority.

- Squad 15 accepts you as our new Leader!

Followed by Saemus, a human girl with long, straight, blonde hair, with a noticeable "x"-shaped scar on her cheek, stabs her spear into the ground in front of her, and hitting her chest with her right fist, screams loudly and with raw emotion her support and loyalty.

- Squad 23 accepts you as our new Leader!

Soon, all the captains took their turn to shout on behalf of their own squad, showing their unconditional loyalty to Adara, who is finally moved by the powerful moment, and the tribal paint on her cheeks is slightly washed away by her tears, running discreetly over her face. Adara then raises her spear into the air; A simple gesture that among hunters means "good hunting," but that phrase had many meanings within itself, and in this case, it represented her commitment to the people who have given her their loyalty. The gesture is responded to in the same way by all the Hunters present at the ceremony. A silent show of support, but whose echo was deafening.

After her appointment, Adara stood at the Podium right behind the Council members, who have now summoned Zenda to take the stand and take her place as the new Leader of Cilt. Leander approaches her, and adjusts the dark cloth sash with Zenda's new ranks on her left door, just as Darius wears it. Zenda has taken the two remaining ranks that General Kassia has left in her absence; Her position as part of the Council of Leaders, and her rank as Leader of the Warriors, thus becoming the new head of the militia; General Zenda, hybrid leader of the neutral city of Cilt.

The tenacious master of the Warriors has proven herself worthy of the position of Leader on countless occasions, but it was finally time for her to take her place next to her own son, and no one would question that decision, not after she had been the one who managed mitigate the disrespectful comments of dissatisfied citizens, and be able to maintain order in the midst of chaos. There was simply no one else who could carry the weight of those ranks, and she would faithfully follow the last order that Kassia gave her the moment she sacrificed herself for her, and for all of us. It was the least she could do.

A ceremony of this type should be an event worthy of celebration. But today, Cilt does not celebrate. A long minute of silence persists, and for a moment, the hearts of each citizen beat for the same cause, and mourn the same loss. Opinions may have been divided, and uncertainty may have fueled the citizens' insecurities, but one thing was true for every human and hybrid present around the Stone Podium; Life in Cilt as we know it will never be the same.

- I don't like this... -I hear the voice of an individual next to me, who, without knowing that I was a little more than a meter away from them, expresses their concern in a low voice to their companion- ...Can't you see it? All power is staying within the same family... Instead of being a democracy, this looks more like a new monarchy. -Clearly, their comment was referring to Zenda, and the fact that she and Darius now had the same level of authority, and being mother and son respectively, said authority would be guarded by individuals with the same ideals, something that said citizen didn't seem to like it at all-

- Well, if it bothers you so much, why don't you apply to be Leader? -Their companion was quick to question that individual's opinion in a somewhat sarcastic and irritated way at the same time, discrediting their previous argument- It would be interesting to see how many would like to replace Zenda with someone who knows absolutely nothing about how to lead... Someone like you, For example.

- At least then there would be a fairer distribution of power... I'm telling you, there is something very suspicious there that the Leaders don't want us to know. If everything were as clear as they say, why not call an election for the new Leader? - Maybe that citizen's comment was borderline paranoid, but I can't help but think that something in their reasoning made sense, but I didn't know exactly what- ... This is how a society falls. If this continues its current course, I think it won't be long until the Council becomes corrupted, from within.

- Stop that bullshit already... What citizens need right now is to feel safe, and if that means that mother and son govern together...

- "The citizens" includes you and me, and I don't feel safe with this decision, I already told you, they are hiding something... Oh, look, it's Professor Hopper's son.

Time to go.

I knew my alibi wouldn't last forever, and I made the grave mistake of exposing myself to hear the opinion of a couple of strangers. I put my hands in the pockets of my jacket and adjusted my hoodie so that it could hide the tiny lock of hair that had given me away, and I decided to slip through the crowd until I was no longer part of the public. I walked to take shelter behind the pillars of the Podium, where only a handful of people, mainly high-ranking Warriors and Hunters, gathered to discuss the changes to the hierarchy structure, and what that meant for their specific positions. Fortunately, they didn't seem interested in questioning me, and respected my space and privacy, realizing that I've been avoiding interaction with people at all costs.

The final speech of the Leaders to their present citizens is barely audible from my point of view, and Zenda's appointment does not seem to receive the same support as Adara's, but even so, the Leaders of each rank are now the ones to render their respects and show their loyalty to the new Cilt hybrid Leader.

The ceremony ended without a last speech from Leader Darius that could alleviate the bitter moment, since not even he had enough strength to believe his own words. The audience disperses, heading back to their routine lives, taking the rest of the day to process the changes, and gather strength to continue the next day.

Through the pillars I can see Adara. She remains on the podium for a long minute, simply witnessing the cloudy sunset, and the panorama that appears in front of her, both in her eyes and within her mind. After sighing deeply, and finally turning around to get off the Podium from the back side, she managed to make eye contact with me, and a slight smile appeared on her distressed face. I helped her down from the concrete platform by offering her my hand, even knowing that she probably didn't need it, but she let me help her anyway.

It was hard to think of anything to say. I wanted to congratulate her on her new rank, but at the same time I knew that would be insensitive. I wanted to express my empathy towards her sadness, but I didn't want to discourage her any more than she already was. After a mutual silence that felt eternal, I could no longer resist my urge to hug her tightly. Adara seemed to resist my affection for a couple of seconds, becoming as stiff as a plank, but once she realized that it was no longer necessary to maintain martiality, she returned the hug, almost digging her nails into me from the strength with which she held onto my body.

I can't remember the last time I hugged another human being like that.

Adara is my friend, and I am her friend, and I was happy it was this way. Since the moment I allowed myself to let go of the idea of ​​being something more to her, I was now able to embrace her freely. A sincere hug with which I was able to express how much she meant to me, and to make her understand that I would be by her side, no matter how difficult the situation was. She took refuge in my embrace for a long moment, long enough to let out everything she had to keep in since our return to Cilt, while I simply waited until she was ready.

- ...I've thought about this moment for a long time... -Adara thinks out loud, still hugging me- ...I always thought I would be ready... That I would be worthy of taking on the job. I always wanted to be more than what I already was, and I thought that being Leader of the Hunters would give me the satisfaction that I always wanted... -She finally separates herself from my embrace, and prefers to hug her own body while looking towards the ground, trying to comfort herself- ...But I never thought it would be like this. I never wanted anything bad to happen to Gen... to Kassia. She trusted me, and now... I don't feel worthy of carrying her rank.

Adara makes herself small as she hugs herself, looking away from me so I couldn't look into her eyes. I look at her without knowing what to say to console her. I resigned myself to putting my hand on her shoulder, as the only sign of affection that would allow me to give her at that moment.

- ...None of us were ready for this. Who could be?... But now we can only try to fill the great whole they have left us. Now is your time. -Adara looks up, her eyes watering, and rivers of paint running down her cheeks- If you can't trust yourself for now, you can trust me when I tell you; You will be a great Leader, I know it. You already are.

Adara looked at me with uncertainty, but her face seemed to brighten a little. She gently caressed her deer pelt cloak, and watched it closely, as if trying to decipher whether what was happening was real or not. She sighed deeply and nodded to herself, slowly accepting her new reality.

- I don't know if I can get used to carrying this animal on me all the time, it's going to get in the way when we have to go hunting. -Adara jokes for a moment about her new outfit, lightening the conversation for both of us-

- As if that's enough to stop you. -Saemus is present in our conversation, continuing Adara's sarcastic comment. It was a relief to see him in better shape than when he entered the hospital, although now with new scars spread across his body, these did not prevent him from smiling when he saw us talking. -How are you feeling Tyler?... Iker hasn't been discharged yet? I don't see him anywhere...

- Oh, he... felt too tired, he preferred to stay home for now... b-but I'm sure he would have liked to be here for today's ceremony. -I am forced to lie for my friend to save his reputation a little, and although neither Saemus nor Adara seemed to believe me, they did not question me too much-

- Well, I understand that, he must rest now that he can... We still have a long day ahead of us before we can rest. The change of command is not a simple thing. -Saemus exhales to relieve his fatigue, but maintains a positive outlook on the matter, which is reaffirmed by Adara-

- Yes, it will be a busy day... but at the end we will meet all the captains for dinner together. If you want you can come with us, Tyler. You would be our special guest. -Adara offers a kind invitation to what would be the first captains meeting under Adara's new mandate, and for a moment the idea sounded good in my head-

- That's right, everyone will be there and there will be a lot of food, it is a good opportunity to regain lost energy. -Saemus speaks with a renewed excitement in his voice just thinking about food, something natural after having spent an entire week surviving on minuscule rations- Oh and, by the way, the invitation is also for Iker. I imagine he would appreciate a good dinner too.

Iker's sudden inclusion in the Hunter couple's plans took me by surprise, but before I could say anything, Adara had stepped forward to make her opinion known in a not-so-subtle way.

- ...Saemus. -Adara reluctantly replies to her partner, although she is promptly interrupted again by Saemus himself, who seemed to be prepared for that reaction-

- I know... But he saved our lives. -Saemus defends Iker's honor, even if that meant reminding his partner of what she clearly wanted to ignore, to which Adara decides to keep quiet, and listen- If it weren't for him... neither you nor I would be here. I think the least we can do for him is show him that we are grateful... Don't you think?

Adara tightens her mouth in a subtle show of frustration, as Saemus's argument has made her swallow her own words. I don't doubt that deep down, Adara is grateful to Iker for saving her and Saemus, but her ingrained vision of Iker as the violent and volatile hybrid capable of wiping out entire camps of poachers doesn't allow her to see the current situation. If Iker was still that hybrid from years ago, he would not have risked his life to save two Hunters who until now have done nothing but make his life more difficult. Maybe inviting him to dinner was the first step in building trust again. Adara sighed with a moan, and loosened her posture, and her ideals, a little.

- Okay, you're right. Iker will also be our... special guest.- Adara dragged the last words out of her mouth, but that was more than enough for Saemus, who was trying hard not to show a sarcastic smile, typical of the small victory of arguments with his stubborn partner. -

- Thanks for the invitation, I really appreciate it guys, believe me, I would love to go with you, but... -I turn towards the path that brought me here, feeling as if a rope tied to my chest was pulling me back- ...I'm not very sure he would accept the invitation, and to be honest, I would not like to leave him alone... Maybe another time.

Since our confinement in the bunker, Iker has been too silent, and that added to the way Adara yelled at him when she blamed him for the failure of the mission, there were more than enough reasons to think that right now the only thing Iker wanted, was to rest in the only place where no one would bother him, and that included staying away from Adara.

- Don't worry, there will always be another day to hang out... At least you have each other to keep you company. -Saemus gives an understanding smile without taking my rejection of his invitation personally, making the conversation much lighter for both of us- But if he changes his mind, or if one day you need us for anything... you know where to find us. -

Saemus says goodbye politely, waiting patiently for Adara to join him to begin their working tour around Cilt, but she stands in her place, uncertainty pinning her feet to the ground. It was clear that she didn't feel ready to start. Her hesitation makes her falter, clinging tightly to the deer pelt cloak as she feels overwhelmed.

- ... Everything will be okay. You'll see. -I reaffirm my hopes for Adara, hoping that it would be enough to give her the impetus to cope with today's workload, and possible future responsibilities-

- I really hope so... -The anguish in her voice would not allow her to say much more, but that was not necessary, since few words are enough to say goodbye- Good hunting, my friend.-

We hugged each other goodbye, unable to know when our paths would meet again. Once she felt ready, she turned around to head towards the Hunters' Village, in the company of her always faithful companion.

Loneliness became present in my consciousness only when I realized that I had lost sight of them. The silence, and the cold air rushing around me planted me back in reality, almost making me feel guilty for the momentary joy I felt, seeing the possibility that the problems between Adara and Iker could be solved once and for all. When in reality, two dear friends are missing, and this joy was nothing more than a small distraction, which would help me cope with the truth.

But life must go on, for our own sake.

That was too bitter a pill to process under the gentle rain that has begun to fall, so I have no choice but to return to the place where, fortunately, there is someone who can alleviate my human condition of insignificance. Because, being around him, in some strange way, It made me feel not so insignificant.

____________________________________________________________________

At first, Iker thinks I'm joking with him. "A very bad taste joke" in his opinion. There was no way in his head that Saemus, much less Adara, would have invited him to anything other than leaving the city, permanently. Until a hybrid Hunter came straight to our apartment, completely oblivious to the cold rain he had to face on his way, to hand us a huge wicker basket, with a small note tied to the rope that kept the basket closed;

"An olive branch

-Adara and Saemus"

Iker stared at the note in disbelief, wondering if he was really seeing correctly, unable to understand why there was such a sudden change in the way the Hunter couple was beginning to treat him, even after everything that had happened. But his train of thought was immediately interrupted as soon as I managed to untie the rope of the basket, and the aroma of food filled the room.

To say that the basket contained a good meal would be to blatantly understate the absolute feast that had been packed just for us; What at first glance appeared to be a huge block of meat, tied and compacted with such dexterity that it was difficult even for Iker's sharp teeth to free, and once we managed to get rid of the bonds, Iker exclaimed with excitement and a little horror, when we realized that was a whole roasted wild pig. Digging a little deeper into the basket I found a regiment of baked potatoes, stew, loaves of homemade bread, strawberry jam with almost whole fruit, and other preserves in jars.

Iker didn't hesitate to give the animal a good bite, but he stopped just before sinking his teeth into it. He smiled awkwardly and tried to apologize, saying that it had been a long time since he last ate something like that in the company of someone else. His apology warms my heart, and makes me feel a little guilty for making him feel obligated to behave like a human, when he really wasn't, nor did he have to behave like one. Realizing that Iker was doing his best to contain his impulse to eat wildly, I renounced my own utensils, and before giving my brain a chance to back down, I gave the most brazen and vicious bite I could to the roasted pig, although in Iker's eyes that only seemed like a sad attempt to show him that, if he had to eat like a human, I could also eat like a hybrid, causing an immediate burst of laughter that made him spit out the bite he already had on his mouth. But at least my goal of making him feel comfortable being himself had been accomplished.

Dinner went on for hours, the delicious food had really been the perfect catalyst to put our worries aside, and have some quality time that we so needed. It seemed as if the tragedy had never happened.

After Iker had completely devoured the pig to the bone, and I had taken care of storing the leftover food, the silence returned again, but this time it was a conflicted tranquility. Peace after the storm.

While Iker tidied up his disastrous sleeping space a little, I went out to the balcony for a moment, listening to the echo of the rain that filtered through the entrance of the artificial cave. A soft, icy breeze caresses my hair, while I lean on the weak railing of the balcony, observing, talking to myself.

- Tell me, why do you like standing here so much? ...I'm worried that one day you'll prefer to be on the edge of the balcony than staying inside... -Iker speaks sarcastically as he himself approaches the edge of the balcony, peering curiously and cautiously towards the floor, although he was unable to hide his worry-

- Heh, don't worry about me. That's not gonna happen. -

As much as my comment was intended to assure him that there was nothing to worry about, Iker did not seem satisfied with my response. He sat next to me, looking in the same direction I was looking, until the silence seemed to bother him again.

- ... What is going through your mind right now?

It was a simple question, asked by someone who really cared about the answer, but that didn't mean it was any easier to express what was really inhabiting my thoughts.

- Do you remember... the last night before the mission? We were right here. Trying to imagine what would happen. Preparing for whatever was waiting for us out there... -I feel my throat go numb from the memory. Given my absolute and blessed ignorance-

- Yes, I remember it. And I also remember that I told you, that no matter what happened... I would be here for you. -Iker rushes to prematurely mitigate the seriousness of my comment, as if he feared that something bad was going to come out of it, but that only made a lump in my throat, the same one that I forced to get rid of with a sigh that completely emptied my lungs-

- I just can't stop thinking about something. My mind keeps repeating the same thing, over and over nonstop. A single sentence... "The adventure is over."

- What do you mean by that?

- I feel like all of this has been a dream... Ever since I was brought here and convinced myself to stay, for the slim chance of being able to see my father again... until now. My life completely changed in a very short time. For a moment I thought that meant things would finally get better... But now, not only do I know that I will never see my father again... I also caused two friends to not return home. All because of not wanting to accept the truth.

- Hey, Ty... The thing with Kassia and Ciro wasn't your fault. They would have risked their lives to rescue Marcus even if you weren't here. And besides, you can't be sure that you won't see Marcus again... He's your father. You can't just...give up on him.

- Iker... Please. -I hold on to the balcony railing tightly as I stand up again, looking Iker in the eyes with a seriousness that made him hesitate- ... I know you only say that to make me feel better, but lies don't change reality... - Supporting my elbows on the metal barrier, I look forward, unable to continue looking into his eyes- ...He is dead. I know it. There's no way he could have survived that long out there, not as Neyzan's prisoner. I think something inside me already knew... but I just didn't want to see it... And I'm not going to put my friends at risk again to confirm it.

Iker's silence hits my subconscious like a whip, realizing that I had done everything possible to close any opportunity for him to help me. My own body seemed to abhor the words I had so gratuitously spat at him, but I could no longer take them back. He just sighed, perhaps realizing that I would deny his help, giving up on his attempt to restore my hope. He just stood by my side, asking himself his own internal questions.

- And what do you plan to do now then? ...Since, "the adventure is over." -The question fell into unknown territory, because really, I had never considered the option that, perhaps, the search for my father was useless.

- Even if I wanted to, I cannot return to the Metropolis; They would arrest me for associating with hybrids and would consider me a traitor... I think the only thing I can do for now is stay here, and try to be useful to society... It's the only thing I have left.

I hug the metal barrier again, holding on tight to the realization that my fight has been in vain, and that all this time I was clinging to nothing more than a memory, and the unreal desire to be reunited with a ghost of my past. Chasing nothing but shadows. But unlike the silence I felt I deserved, my friend was showing me once again how wrong I was.

- Well, maybe you think you have no choice but to stay. But I'm glad you're staying here because, well, if you leave... you would be greatly missed by many people, the Hunters, your father's colleagues, the Leaders and... me. -Iker avoids talking too much about his feelings, but his sensitive way of expressing himself did not go over my head-... I understand that you feel that this is the end of the road. But maybe it's just the beginning of something new. Don't you think?

My heart felt heavy, and ungrateful. In an attempt to protect myself and my ego, I tried to push away the only person who has always been there for me, and I felt blind, realizing that Iker didn't care at all about that, and that even with my efforts In focusing on everything bad, there was always something he could use to make me feel less miserable.

Finally I let go of the railing, slowly squatting down, making myself as small as my futile attempt to pretend to be the victim of the world. I looked into Iker's eyes for a moment. His big green eyes seemed to see in me things that I have never been able to see in all my years of life, things that I don't think I deserve, one of them being his unconditional support.

- ...I'm sorry, for being the person you call friend. -Iker simply tilts his head, observing with subtle concern- I'm inconsiderate... You must be tired of dealing with me. Sometimes I don't realize how stupid and cruel my words can be, and that I'm not the only one who suffers from what happened... I'm sorry.

- Hey, don't say that. -Iker gives me a little push on my legs, insistent enough to divert my attention, but just as delicate as to keep me from falling to the ground- We are best friends, right? And if I need to remind you a thousand times that things can get better... a thousand and once I will.

I can't take Iker seriously every time he is honest with me, it was like seeing a completely different hybrid than the one who spends his time harassing me with bad jokes and complaining about everything, so much so that I even wonder if that gentle and sensitive side was his true face, beneath that cocky and carefree facade.

- Well... since you insist so much, I'll stay. If you don't mind still having a roommate, of course.

- Bullshit, of course it doesn't bother me! ...Anyway, I need someone to clean the apartment from time to time... -Iker murmurs before entering the apartment again, hinting that I would help him clean up the mess in the room-

- I heard that! -And just like that, he had managed to return a smile to me. His specialty.

____________________________________________________________________

The promise of a new day comes true, manifesting itself as a morning of dense white fog, lacking any air current, and with a humid coldness capable of giving chills to anyone who leaves their house unprepared.

Iker was a heavy sleeper, and that was a relief. I wasn't able to sleep much last night, and now I felt an inexplicable need to go for a walk, and clear my mind alone. At least Iker wouldn't have to interrupt his sleep.

I came out through the mouth of the mine to receive the first rays of sun, mystically diffused among the millions of water droplets that made up the morning mist. The light is dim, and not concentrated enough to provide any warmth. Reaching both hands into the center pocket of my hoodie, I shrugged my shoulders to maintain my body heat as I walked down the dirt road that would take me downtown.

The mist becomes increasingly thinner as I approach the Stone Podium, since the treeless terrain gave the wind the opportunity to displace the mist, giving way to small, weak rays of sun that sneaked through the clouds, making a small spectacle for everyone who was there to see it, but it seemed that I was the only spectator of that natural wonder.

Something caught my attention as I got closer to the Stone Podium. The upper part of the pillars seemed to move or deform from my distant perspective, but the closer I got I realized that this was nothing more than an optical illusion, since the origin of such a strange movement were two enormous gray ribbons, tied as a form of flags on top of two of the pillars; The pillar of the Hunters, and the central pillar that represented the Leaders. Both ribbons flutter in the gentle wind slowly, almost as if they were weightless, demanding every observer to take a moment to appreciate their silent beauty. I knew immediately what those ribbons meant.

One for Ciro.

One for Kassia.

The two gray ribbons dance in harmony alongside each other, caressing each other as the winds shift, sheltering their pillars in a tight embrace. There was sadness and respect in the knots that keep them tied to the great monument, which this morning was less empty than usual, because at the foot of those pillars there were numerous offerings of candles, some unlit and others still lit, wooden figurines , delicate crafts, blankets, preserved food, stuffed animals, and a regiment of flowers that adorned the cold stone monument. And among all those elements, none stood out more than the solitary person who was sitting near the offerings, sheltered with a heavy blanket that only revealed a little of her pink hair, which covered half of her face.

My heart trembled at such a sight before me, for nothing could have prepared me for the anguish I now felt. It was inevitable to feel the love and pain placed in those offerings, and my conscience became uneasy when I recognized the person who was watching over the offerings.

Not quite sure what I was doing, I mustered up the courage to make it to the podium, unable to think of anything to say to her, even questioning what I was doing in the first place, but feeling obligated not to remain silent, not in a situation like this.

I walked carefully so as not to alert her with the noise of my footsteps, but apparently my stealth managed to snap her out of her resting state and she turned her head quickly to see what was approaching her from behind. I couldn't see her face, since she had it covered with her own hair, but she did seem to see me, to which she simply looked back in front of her, turning her back to me again without any other reaction. plus a contemplative silence. A more than unusual, and painful silence for someone like her.

- ...Marione.

She did not respond, nor did she move a single muscle upon hearing her own name. It was clear that there were still mixed feelings between the two of us, since the last time we saw each other, things didn't go well, and that only made the current situation worse.

Marione must have been devastated by the news of what happened to Ciro, and she wouldn't allow me to get much closer to her than I already was. I knew she was vulnerable right now, and that I had to tread carefully, but my conscience wouldn't let me ignore her, even knowing that she could be unpredictable, and she could easily hurt me. It was worth at least trying to express some empathy, even if she didn't want to receive it from me.

- ...I know you may not want to know anything about me, much less listen to me. But... I just wanted to tell you that I am very sorry for what happened to Ciro... I may have only known him for a short period of time, but it was enough to know that he was a wonderful person, and a great mentor... He made me feel welcome as no one else had done it, and he taught me many things that I will never forget... I am very sorry for your loss.

- He is not dead.

The sudden response cut short my sensitive comment, as if Marione had been offended by my condolences. Maybe she said it in denial, or maybe she said it because she really believed it. But whatever the reason she took my comment to heart, I wouldn't argue with someone who has barely been able to process a loss. At least now I was certain that I wouldn't continue talking to a wall, and that reassured me in a strange way.

- Pardon?

- I said he's not dead... Can't you see? If he were dead, the ribbon would be black, not gray... Gray is the color of the missing. -

Marione has silenced herself again after correcting my apparent ignorance, hugging herself, turning her face away from the origin of my voice. As I looked up and silently appreciated the gray ribbons, I couldn't help but question the blind faith that Marione had placed in something as banal as the color of a piece of fabric, to confidently determine that Ciro was still alive. But that was to be expected, she did not see with her own eyes the way it all happened. If she had been there to see it, she surely wouldn't have the same hope.

- ...I really hope so. -I have no choice but to support her belief, even though I believed it impossible, because I was not doing her any favors by questioning what keeps her afloat. Instead, I make the slightest attempt to show interest in her well-being, sitting on the floor, keeping a respectable distance between her and me.

To Marione's side was a small group of offerings, which, unlike those at the foot of the pillars, were intended exclusively for her. Small gifts in the form of food and other objects that could offer her some comfort, all from people who, in her appreciation and respect for Ciro, showed the same affection and care towards her not-so-esteemed human daughter. All the gifts were intact, and Marione showed no interest in disturbing the order of those objects, as if they were not hers, and were part of the offering to the missing.

My insistence on staying on the Podium with her made me finally earn the right to be seen in the eye, but her look was far from being appreciative, being really a tense and hurt look, like that of a wounded creature, showing aggressiveness to ward off potential danger.

- Don't you have anything better to do? ...If you're here just because you feel like you owe Ciro something, like everyone else, you can leave already. I don't need your sympathy.

- I'm here because I want to make sure you're okay, nothing more.

- Oh don't make me laugh. Two weeks ago we hated each other's guts, and now out of the blue you're worried about how I feel. You're just here to make yourself feel better... Seriously, what are you doing here?

- I... -The questioning takes me off guard. Had I really thought that a few words of support and the slightest show of interest would be enough for her to accept my empathy? Was I really so dissociated from reality that I believed things between the two of us could change? That my good will would be more than enough to solve our problems? Once again, Marione plants my feet in reality, and she makes me aware of how ridiculous I can be in order to get any ounce of satisfaction, by believing that I could do something good for someone who is not even my friend. In reality, I had no reason to try to help her, beyond her relationship with Ciro. There was really no logical reason for me to have approached her, and yet there I was, like an idiot, sitting next to a person who hates my mere presence-... I don't know... I think I just felt alone... That 's all.

Marione seems a little disappointed that I had simply agreed with her, instead of starting an endless argument that would end with her winning anyway. I no longer had the strength to fight with anyone. And she seemed to sense it immediately.

- ...That's what I thought. -Instead of using my words as a throwing weapon, Marione prefers to cut the topic short, thus finally tolerating my presence. Ironically, that gave her the peace of mind she needed to start a real conversation- At least you're honest. Not like the ones who gave me these things. They only treat me well because Ciro adopted me as his daughter, not because they really love me... They are hypocrites.

- I know how you feel.

- No, no you don't... -Resentment is invoked again in her gesture and in her words. I could see in her a deep pain and confusion that was not foreign to me. And I could only watch her fight against her mixed feelings, unable to offer her a bit of help, in the face of the battle she was waging in her head-... It's as if people forget that you are a person, and not a simple shadow of your father... As if You didn't even have a name. And when someone treats you well, there's no way to know if they really did it for you, or just because you are an extension of your... father.

Marione is silent for a moment, reflecting on the words that had just passed through her head and her mouth, looking at me again as soon as she was aware of the realization she had just had. While I received her angry words with empathy and total understanding.

- I may be the only person who does understand you... And you know why.

She stood completely still, watching me with an anguish I had never seen in her. She wouldn't admit it with words, but it was clear that she has finally understood what I have felt since my arrival to this place. Marione rubs the back of her neck as she looks down and threads her fingers through her hair, clenching her fist into her scalp as she doesn't have a better way to express her frustration, fighting with her own face to not show vulnerability. Once the torment of her thoughts seemed to calm for a moment, she turned her body until she was sitting facing me, an act that I also imitated, seeing that she had agreed to let her guard down for a moment, and talk to me freely. But instead of starting a conversation, she only seemed interested in asking the exact same questions that I have tried to avoid at all costs.

- I need to know what really happened to him. To Ciro.

- ...Has no one told you anything?

- Adara and Saemus don't want to tell me... They say they don't want me to worry too much, and that they fear for my safety... The Warriors say the same thing, even Evan refuses to tell me. I just want to know what happened, so I at least can know if I should have hope or not... It seems like you're the only one who can tell me the truth now.

I feel upset to know that everyone has refused to tell Marione what happened, and that this task has fallen entirely on me; the only person she doesn't trust, but now I was the only one who could answer her questions. It is now up to me to decide to tell her the truth, but I did not feel ready to take responsibility for the pain that this might cause her. The anguish of knowing that there is not much hope for my father was a type of suffering that I would not wish on anyone else.

- The truth can hurt you... I don't want you to experience that too.

- Tell me, if someone had information about your father, whether good or bad, wouldn't you do anything to know it?

The truth hurts. But doubt kills, slowly.

Marione is only two years younger than me, and I have been able to see myself in her. I could feel again that restless flame of hope, capable of overcoming everything in order to know the truth, no matter what it brought with it. I understand very well the frustration she must feel right now, since I was in her place not long ago. What my past self wanted most was to simply know the truth. And out of respect for her, and for myself, I decided to tell her everything. She more than anyone deserved to know the truth.

Marione listened calmly and patiently, giving me the time necessary to put my words and my mixed feelings in order. Her face became filled with concern as the anecdote went on, and she was horrified when it came time to tell what happened during our escape, when Ciro caused the bridge to collapse. But she was brave and listened to the rest of the story, until she encountered tragedy again, this time from Kassia, and ending with the unsatisfactory ending of our arrival at the bunker, with two less members in the squadron, and an unwanted passenger. .

There was a long silence after the traumatic story. Marione didn't let out a tear, or any other gesture or sound that betrayed distress, and I wasn't sure if it was her simply repressing her feelings, or because she was simply unable to process the seriousness of the matter for now. What I was sure of for now, was that there was a lot on her mind at the moment, and that it would be best to give her the opportunity to process it, alone. I couldn't help but apologize again, and express my sincere condolences, although on this occasion, she was somewhat gentler in her response.

- ... As long as they don't find his body... he will still be alive for me. -She reaffirms her faith that Ciro would have been able to survive such a tragedy, although now, it was a well-informed and cautious hope- Thank you for telling me the truth... It seems that you are the only one I can trust now, and that's already sad enough.

I wouldn't take her comment to heart, instead, I smiled respectfully at her, which seemed to confuse her for a moment.

- That's not true and you know it. You have the Hunters, and the Warriors. If they didn't want to tell you the truth, it's not because you can't trust them... It's just that they appreciate you, and they didn't want you to suffer more.

- So why did you tell me the truth?

- ...Because it was the right thing to do.

Marione reflects deeply on everything she had just heard, without any other questions to ask, having more than enough answers on which to put together a new picture of herself. I interpreted her silence as an invitation to continue on my way and allow her to be alone, because even though I thought it would be best to keep her company for the rest of the day, the truth was that my presence was still just as unwelcome as before.

I get up carefully, recovering from the numbness of sitting on the stone of the Podium. But before continuing my way to the city center, one last concern prevents me from leaving the place. There were still pending issues to settle, and perhaps, this would be the only opportunity I would have to put my mind at peace, and close once and for all what had once caused me so much conflict, but which, given the circumstances, now seemed insignificant.

- I want to apologize to you. -Marione loses the concentration of her thoughts for a moment, and she looks at me as if she had never heard those words said to her before in her entire life-...I'm sorry for wrongly giving you away the other time. Because of me, they locked you in the elevator of the H tower, and that probably caused problems between you and Ciro. After that, I knew you were innocent. I think I misjudged you all this time... Forgive me.

She freezes for a moment, unable to respond to what she had just heard. It seemed like it wasn't at all common for someone to apologize to her, and that only took her by surprise. She grabs her hair, brushing it with her fingers to comfort herself and lessen the anxiety she must be feeling right now. She was unable to see me in her eyes, although there was a clear change in her tone of voice.

- ...I'm sorry for calling you a bastard...and useless...and that you didn't deserve to be treated well for being Marcus's son. Now I understand everything. -Marione's unexpected apology was both incredible and welcome. I felt a weight lift off my chest, and that made me smile for a moment, as it was a painkiller for my chronic pain. After apologizing, Marione takes the courage to look me in the eyes, observing me with a sensitivity that I never thought she was capable of-... I'm so sorry you couldn't rescue Marcus... I can only imagine what you must have felt at that moment.

My heart raced painfully, but an equally heavy sigh quelled it. The mere mention of my father was enough to upset my peace of mind, but little by little I have learned to control it, for my own sake.

- I'm fine... After what happened out there, I accepted the fact that I won't see him again. It would be illogical to think that he is still alive after so much time. But at least now I'm at peace.

- How can you say that? How can you lose hope so easily? -Marione gets up, confronting me when with her questions-

- I know that to you, I may sound like a pessimist... But after thirteen years of waiting for a miracle, I'm finally tired... I need to move on with my life. -I make the bold decision to rest my hand on her shoulder, which is received with attentive eyes, full of doubt and mixed feelings, but above all, anguish- But at least, it reassures me to know that you have not lost hope. That's more than enough for me.

Marione allows herself to be in front of me for a few more moments, now without the need to be defensive. But that didn't stop her from making her opinion known forcefully.

- The missing remain missing. And until they find my father's body, or Marcus', our job is to look for them... and NEVER lose hope. Whether you like it or not.

I wish I had her confidence and courage to defy the reality in front of me. But the truth was, there isn't much left of that Tyler who swore he would see his father again. But the only thing I could do was help those who have not yet lost hope.

Something inside Marione changed, something strong enough to finally convince her that those offerings were for her, and begin to pack everything in the blanket with which she has protected herself from the humid cold of the morning. Everything indicated that the time to return to her house had arrived.

- Wouldn't you rather...stay with us for today? -My invitation stops Marione in the act, staring at me with disbelief and curiosity- Iker and I will spend the entire day at home, and I don't think he'll mind if you accompany us... I wouldn't like you to be left alone.

Marione continues packing her stuff, revealing a subtle yet sad smile.

- Don't worry about me, I am better off being alone... Besides, we're not even friends. You don't invite a stranger to your house just because.

- Well then... Let's stop being strangers. -I extend my hand to Marione, a gesture that she receives with skepticism, and a little embarrassment, but she agreed to shake my hand just so I would stop making a fool of myself- My name is Tyler, it's a pleasure to meet you.

Marione lets out a nasal laugh, rolling her eyes and sighing with regret at what she had just heard. She throws her head back, silently protesting at the thought of doing something as ridiculous as what she was about to do. She resumes neutrality for a few moments, only to mock my improvised technique to make peace between us once and for all.

- My name is Marione... Can you let go of my hand now? You're embarrassing me... -Marione lets go of the greeting as if it were going to transmit scabies. But I could notice a subtle blush on her face, the same one that she was trying to hide with her hair, covering half of her face. -This doesn't mean we're friends, okay?

- Don't worry, we'll have plenty of time to get to know each other.

- Ugh, I really hope that's not the case...

Her sarcasm manages to make us both laugh, and with bittersweet satisfaction, Marione sets out on her way to the Hunters' Village without saying goodbye or turning back, carrying with her the gifts of the people who have taken the time to care for her well being.

The morning has advanced, and the sun finally breaks through the mist. The presence of smoke in the vicinity was an unequivocal indicator that the city had finally woken up, and that the citizens were preparing to start their daily routine. Soon, the Stone Podium would once again be populated by people wanting to pay their respects to their lost friends, and that meant that my plans for a quiet solitary walk through the city had been thwarted, but at least it had done some good to have met up with Marione.

Her words echo in my head, the way she questioned my abandonment of all hope of seeing my father back has really shaken me inside. I have tried to convince myself that it is for the better, that only then will I be able to continue with my life, and that I will be able to focus on being a useful person for society. But Marione always manages to make me question what I faithfully believed to be true. And that conflicts me.

I look up for advice, or any guidance, but the gray ribbons remain just as silent as when I arrived.

- ...I wonder if, on the day he disappeared, someone put a gray ribbon on his name.

I sigh as I imagine what it must have been like the day my father did not return to Cilt. The shock it must have created when a person as loved as him suddenly disappeared. A gray ribbon on the Scientists' pillar must have stood, floating gently and surely in the wind during the first days of his disappearance, becoming increasingly heavier and damaged as the inclemencies tore pieces of it, until there was no other option than to remove it, or let it fall off on its own. And just like that ribbon, hope was lost.

But within me, there is a thorn in my heart that would not allow me to forget so easily. Uncertainty once again reigns in my tired conscience, and a part of me, no matter how small, refuses to give up.

Thin gray ribbons tied to the base of the pillars, all of them in different shades, tied by the citizens themselves as part of the offering to Kassia and Ciro. I took one of them, and without thinking twice I untied it, desecrating the good will of the person who had given this ribbon to the cause. I took it with me until I was facing the pillar of the Scientists, and after surrounding the pillar with ribbon on hand, I tied it to the base of it, making a tight knot, which I begged it to stay strong.

Three gray ribbons kept each other company.

One for Kassia.

One for Ciro.

One, for my father.

Maybe. Just maybe. There was still hope.

Hybrid-Kira (2024)