Tuesday, 09.05.2364
Today, they were woken up earlier.
Around 4 a.m., they were told to get ready. Before their alarms could go off, they were handed some clothes.
When they asked why they couldn’t choose their outfits, the response was:
“Sid decided it. You’re supposed to look like two ordinary travelers. Especially you, Kawao—you still don’t have enough experience staying under the radar.”
Even though the comment stung a bit, Kawao knew it was the truth. Annoyed but resigned, he swallowed his pride and held his tongue.
Both were filled with anticipation. They dressed quickly, taking a moment to glance at their reflections in the mirror.
Their outfits consisted of slightly tattered light-red garments, designed to make them look like humble travelers. The goal was to appear as inconspicuous civilians.
After a moment to catch their breath and steel themselves, they left their rooms and exchanged a brief look. With a nod, they followed two nearby rebels who led them through the base.
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Much like their first journey through the hidden passages, they traversed numerous winding corridors. This time, however, some of the routes felt familiar.
Within minutes, they arrived at one of the exits. It wasn’t the same one they had entered from, but they knew it would lead them outside the city.
Sid was already waiting for them.
“Good, you’re punctual.”
He gestured toward the exit.
“When you step out, you’ll find yourselves on a lightly forested slope. If you head downhill, you’ll soon reach the road. However, stay vigilant—there could still be soldiers patrolling nearby.
If you’re approached or questioned, let Koru do the talking. Got it?”
They gave a quick nod.
“And you’ve got all the mission details in your heads, right? Just to be sure, repeat them back to me.”
The pair recited their missions, detailing each objective. Sid listened attentively, his face breaking into a satisfied smile.
“Good. You’re ready.
Before you go, I have one last message from Kenzo for you.”
Sid’s expression turned serious as he delivered her words:
“When we meet again, don’t get in my way, you idiots!”
Both of them smiled and then burst out laughing.
“Yep, that sounds like her.”
With a firm tone, Sid stamped his foot on the ground. The door creaked open, flooding the corridor with sunlight.
“Now, get moving!”
For the first time in what felt like forever, they stepped out into the bright morning sun.