The weight of realization pressed down on the group of humans as they lowered their gazes, weapons loose in uncertain grips. Each face reflected the internal struggle of processing truths that challenged everything they'd believed. Years of conditioning crumbled in these silent moments as Jamie observed their transformation from adversaries to something else entirely.
Their collective guilt was evident in tense shoulders and averted eyes, prompting Jamie to break the heavy silence. "Folks, no need to be hard on yourself," he said, measuring each word carefully. "Let's just forget all this and begin anew."
The stillness that followed was profound, broken only by the soft sounds of shifting feet and nervous breathing. Jamie knew actions would speak louder than words in this moment. "And the first step of it would be a cordial shake." His human hand extended into the space between them, bridging the divide that had seemed insurmountable mere minutes ago.
