Part 11

Eucalyptus decided to hold off on heading to Litskeb. She wanted to ensure everyone was fully prepared and to devise a comprehensive plan. Two months later, she called for a new meeting, gathering all the Bosses and Sub-Bosses. However, those two months were anything but quiet.

During this time, something unexpected happened: a member of the Cross approached Eucalyptus. Taken aback, she instinctively braced herself for a fight, with Shaya ready at her side. But the Cross member quickly clarified they had come in peace—they were part of a rebellion. Eucalyptus was stunned. After a brief moment of shock, she ran to embrace the newcomer, her excitement bubbling over. "No way, this can’t be real! How did this happen? Oh my gosh, oh my gosh!" she exclaimed, bombarding the member with questions. The young woman, a bit overwhelmed, introduced herself. "I’m Lily. Kumo sent me."

The mention of Kumo’s name brought Eucalyptus to an abrupt halt. Her excitement gave way to a deep, warm smile as joy filled her heart—finally, news of her old friend. Before Lily could say more, Eucalyptus hurried to find Zephyr, bringing him back to hear what Lily had to say. Now standing before the leader of the Liberty and her Sub-Bosses, Lily took a deep breath and began to speak.

"Kumo is doing well," Lily said. "Before its spy mission, no one really knew it—it was reserved, never spoke to anyone. But now, it’s opened up, it smiles, it even laughs sometimes. It’s—well, it’s beautiful to see. It gives people hope."

Lily paused, clearly moved by her experience with Kumo. Eucalyptus blinked back tears, overjoyed to hear that her friend was not only safe but happy. Even Zephyr, who had harbored anger toward Kumo, felt that anger begin to dissolve. Shaya nodded, relieved and happy to learn that Kumo had fulfilled its promise to start the rebellion. Lily continued, her tone becoming more serious.

"Kumo is the leader of the Rebellion now. I’m sure you already knew that," Lily said, her voice slightly trembling. "It wanted me to tell you that Kimi and Nao are growing increasingly worried about the Liberty. They're so focused on it, they haven’t even noticed the rebellion or Kumo’s change in behavior."

Lily’s expression turned solemn, almost pleading. "Please, Eucalyptus, save us. Save the members of the Cross who never wanted to be there. I’ll do anything to get my old life back," she begged, gripping Eucalyptus’s hands desperately. Eucalyptus gave her a reassuring smile.

"Of course, Lily. That’s part of why the Liberty exists. We—no, I promise you, we will save you all."

Lily’s eyes filled with relief as she nodded, comforted by Eucalyptus’s words. Before leaving, Eucalyptus asked her, "Could you deliver a message to Kumo for me?" But before Lily could respond, Eucalyptus continued, "Tell it that I think of it every day. And that I will save it. It’s a promise."

Lily nodded once more, offering her goodbyes before departing, her heart lighter with the hope of rescue.

PART 12