Kawao lay motionless on the ground.

As he grew smaller and smaller, a crater where the tank had been became visible.

When he was small enough, the tank started moving again, managing to free itself from his ever-shrinking face.

It turned onto its back, revealing the full extent of the fall's impact.

A large, bloody scar marked his face, one that would probably be permanent if he survived.

The tank was now heavily damaged. It could still move, but it was clear it wouldn't last much longer.

"Crazy fool!" Kuro said.

"That's what he gets for trying to play the hero here!"

"What about your brother?"

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"Leave him! He's probably scared out of his wits anyway. And even if he's not, he won't be a threat to us. We should keep moving! If we sustain any more serious damage, our easy conquest will be over."

They drove off.

When they were out of sight, Kawao returned to his normal size.

Koru cautiously crawled out from a nearby bush. He approached Kawao and was shocked when he saw his face.

"Oh my God!" he stuttered and checked to see if he was still alive.

For a moment, he feared Kawao was dead, but then...

A pulse! He was still alive!

"Thank goodness! Kawao! Can you hear me?"

Slowly, Kawao turned his head towards Koru.

Every tiny movement caused him immense pain, and he had to muster all his strength to stay conscious. He tried to speak, but not a single word came out of his mouth.

"Don't worry! You'll be okay! I promise you! I owe you so much. I won't let you die here like this!"

He looked in the direction the tank had gone.

"I have to stop them! As long as they haven't been stopped, I can't bring you to the harbor! ... Wait a moment! I'll take care of them quickly! Then I'll come back and take care of you, understood?"

He looked back at Kawao. He looked deep into his eyes. His fighting spirit was unbroken.

Koru stood up and ran after the tank while Kawao slowly lost consciousness.

He tried to stay awake, but shortly after, everything went black.