Morin stood amidst the aftermath of Ayaan's explosion, his conjured shield dissipating as he surveyed the scene. The force of the blast had pushed him back, leaving a scorched mark on the ground where Ayaan had stood moments before. The residual energy crackled in the air, a stark reminder of Ayaan's final act.
As Morin steadied himself, his communication device buzzed. He answered it, revealing Dorothy's cold, emotionless voice on the other end.
"Come back, Morin," Dorothy ordered.
Morin's expression remained impassive, yet there was a hint of sadness in his eyes. "It's okay. I'm not injured. I can still go after him."
"No need," Dorothy replied firmly. "Come back."
Morin hesitated, his mind torn between duty and the unspoken sorrow that lingered within him. "Okay," he finally said, his voice devoid of emotion. "I'm coming."
He ended the call and took one last look at the smoldering remains of the battlefield before turning away, his heart heavy with unspoken thoughts.
Meanwhile, Blue was running, his thoughts a whirlwind of grief and determination. Ayaan's sacrifice weighed heavily on him, but he knew he had to keep moving. As he ran, the forest began to thin, giving way to the outskirts of a city.
Ahead of him, a weathered sign came into view, its letters partially obscured by grime and time: **Welcome to Anoka City**. The sight of it spurred Blue onward, a flicker of hope igniting within him.
He continued to run, entering the city with a mix of trepidation and resolve. The streets of Anoka City stretched out before him, a new chapter in his journey waiting to unfold.
END OF CHAPTER 40