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Autumndusk, East Section of Stoneglen, Time: 8:00 AM
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Ezra strolled through the festival grounds, immersing himself in the array of delectable aromas wafting through the air.
"God, this is good." He couldn't resist taking a bite of his kebab, savoring the delicious flavors.
The festivities were in full swing, and he was determined to make the most of them.
As he enjoyed his meal, his gaze wandered to the various stalls and attractions around him.
Curiosity piqued, Ezra decided to explore more, ascending a flight of stairs that led to the upper area.
His steps were leisurely, taking in the sights from this elevated vantage point, appreciating the festival's vibrancy from a new angle.
Wandering among the upper stalls, Ezra spotted a familiar face in the crowd—Ace's brother, Pierre.
The resemblance was evident, yet Pierre carried his distinct air. It was a surprise encounter, and Ezra's lips curved into a frown as he approached Pierre.
"We need to talk, Ezra," Pierre's voice cut through the festival buzz, drawing Ezra's attention.
"Oh my god...Fine." Whispering, Ezra followed Pierre's signal, eventually finding a weathered wooden bench for a temporary respite from the festival's liveliness.
As they settled down, the weight of their shared history hung palpably in the air.
"How has life been treating you?" Pierre inquired, a mix of curiosity and genuine interest in his eyes. Despite the years since their time as teammates, their connection remained strained.
Ezra's gaze fell to the ground before meeting Pierre's. "Life's been different," he admitted, his tone tinged with weariness. The absence of their captain, Sugar, had left an undeniable void.
"Hmph." Pierre's expression held understanding, acknowledging the changes they had undergone.
He pulled out a tobacco cigarette, a habit in his new life, and extended the offer to Ezra. "Want some?"
Ezra politely refused, the distance between them apparent, lingering emotions influencing the present.
"You've just been nodding along, haven't you? I know you don't want to discuss it with me," Pierre pointed out, making Ezra cringe.
"So what if I am?" Ezra stated before getting flicked on the head by Pierre.
"Dumbass." Pierre's tone shifted with a hint of bitterness. "I'm well aware of the decisions you've all made. Taking down the 'Messengers of The Beyond' was quite audacious." His voice held resentment and condemnation.
Ezra's frown deepened. "James had a vision for change. We believed in it. We believed it was time to make a difference," he defended, reflecting the convictions that guided their actions.
"So, you might be saying that you might want to take down Twilight with someone who's the child of your team?" Pierre said, unable to grasp Ezra's intention.
Ezra's gaze bore into Pierre's, seeking to unravel the layers of meaning. The festivity around them faded as their conversation took a serious tone.
Pierre leaned back, features shadowed with contemplation. "I'm not saying I agree with everything they do," he began, his voice carrying resignation and frustration. "But sometimes, change demands time, just like what he did."
Ezra's brow furrowed. "Did my parents die because of that bastard massacre?" Ezra questioned anger in his voice, grabbing Pierre's collar.
Pierre smirked. "More than you might think. The same system we were part of, the one that shaped us, has its flaws. Sometimes, it takes something drastic to shake things up."
Ezra's expression remained guarded. "Remember when we were young and idealistic?"
Pierre's voice took a nostalgic tone. "The world has a way of testing those beliefs."
Ezra's gaze softened. "So, you've chosen a different way to make an impact?" he ventured.
Pierre nodded with resolve. "I have. It's not perfect, but it's a step towards change. What path have you chosen, Ezra?"
Ezra's features tightened. "I've chosen the path that I believe in," he said firmly. "One that aligns with our ideals, even if it means navigating through uncertainty."
Pierre's gaze held respect and understanding. "Then I wish you luck, Ezra. Our paths may diverge, but the world needs those willing to challenge it."
"I want you to know that my brother has been on the wrong path all this time. Our parents hoped he would follow the same direction, as I did," Pierre's voice carried a weight of solemnity.
Ezra's expression grew stern. "Ace will find his path. You shouldn't meddle in our affairs while you follow your own blindly," he retorted.
"By the way, James would fail. He's not the same as the person you were looking to make a difference." Pierre stated with a hint of venom, staring coldly at Ezra.
"Then, I will make sure he will succeed. I will help him guide me to defeat them once and for all." Ezra glared with determination, giving Pierre his final answer.
Pierre released a weary sigh, the tension palpable. With a resigned nod, he seemed ready to take his leave.
"Let each of you pursue your course then," he stated, his tone holding finality and exasperation. And with that, Pierre left Ezra alone, his presence a fading echo amid the bustling festival.
Ezra leaned back against the wooden bench, pondering for a moment. Were his parents' deaths accidental or intentional? Why did Sugar suddenly go mad one day? Was it all part of a scheme, or had he imagined it too much?
These questions irritated Ezra even more as he lightly hit the wooden bench. "It doesn't make any sense!" he yelled at himself, aware that people might look at him strangely.
Ezra grabbed a photograph from his jacket, looking at it with sadness, knowing that the old times couldn't be changed. "God damn it..." he whispered to himself.
The photograph depicted the good old times of Sugar's Enterprise, with Sugar at the dead center and Ezra on the furthest left, sporting a positive smile.
Suddenly, Ezra tried to rip the photograph in half, but no matter how much he tried, it felt like his body was stopping him. "Please just let me..." Ezra realized something was streaming down his face. He rubbed his face and saw that it was wet—oh no.
Ezra was crying without realizing it. He stopped himself before looking at his past self, who seemed happier without burdens on his shoulders.
"I need to clean up..." Ezra spotted a fountain and walked up to it, splashing his face with water.
He breathed in slowly before looking at his hand. "I need to be free from those two before I can finally accept it." Ezra felt guilty for doing this, but it was the only way he could prove James was the person who would help everyone.
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