Even with help from the RDF, it took a month to finish the rescue operation officially. And yes… 90% of the “rescued” were dead.

Wonder was reminded of 7/11 back home. The twin towers. This was probably how many of the rescue workers felt during that horrible few days. It was probably even worse, since there were some survivors thanks to Hoseki magic, so they couldn’t stop digging.

Today was the day after it was finally confirmed all the cave-ins had been cleared, and all bodies identified. Wonder looked around. Everyone looked a little soul-exhausted. Even the trained and experienced rescue crews.

Rose walked up. “…I know we need to go to Fasis. But I’m not sure it’s a good idea.”

Wonder agreed, “I think everyone’s souls took a bit of emotional damage. A vacation is going to be in order.”

Acryoa walked up. “I hate to say it, sir, but you are right. Sakura is probably in brightest spirits, since she’s finally found her crowd, but…”

Wonder nodded, and looked at his daughter. When she and the RDF met, it was indeed like watching a puzzle piece finally go into that sweet, perfect spot. They had all bonded almost instantly, supported each other, and many even helped Sakura get better.

But all of them looked kinda dead and exhausted.

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Blood appeared. I talked to Dad. He’s agreed to delay… you know what. Apparently you aren’t the only mate among the rescue crews, and one of the Champion Families is here too.

Wonder blinked, then glanced at the one he suspected. Blood nodded his confirmation. It was the slave-owner. The guy was definitely a martial artist, but he cared deeply for his slaves. He had probably been the one who dug the hardest out of them all. Luckily, all of them had been outside cave-in range.

Wonder said, “Good… how long do we have?”

Two months at least. He does say he could extend it longer if needed.

Wonder nodded. “I vote let’s go to the beach again. Have an actual vacation. Get some rest. We can see how everyone feels afterwards.”

He remembered something. “Damned Oracle City!”

“Zune Zune!”

Wonder looked at the Warrior Myzune. “You guys got that?”

The Warrior Myzune nodded.

Wonder sighed out of relief. “Deus Ex Machina, but I’ll happily take it.”

**************************

Wonder and Rose talked about it before deciding on a small town on the Eastern coast. While technically a Lightwraith Town, it turned out to be an RDF Vacation spot. The RDF commander had already sent word, so they were welcomed with open arms. A few of the young trainees even offered to train with Sakura and start showing her a few of the exercises. There were also plenty of young Tamers who Izuku could play with, and a Mage Library for Pal and Susie. Majin even appeared to comfort/be with Sakura, which earned brownie points for the whole family. Blood sadly had to go back home, but he made sure to visit.

It would be a wonderful two months. The next chapters will cover some of the short stories of that time.