The banter continued late into the night, the weight of the upcoming mission momentarily forgotten.
As the hours passed, the city below gradually fell silent, the distant hum of traffic replaced by the occasional chirp of crickets. The rooftop felt like its own world, separate from the chaos they would soon face.
Toji leaned against the railing, his gaze distant.
"You ever think about what comes after all this?" he asked suddenly.
Liam glanced at him, surprised by the question. "After the mission?"
"After everything," Toji clarified. "This life, the constant fighting. What's the endgame for you?"
Liam was quiet for a moment, considering the question. "I guess I haven't thought that far ahead. Right now, I'm just focused on surviving and getting stronger."
Toji nodded, as if he'd expected that answer.
"It's a good mindset to have. But eventually, you'll need to figure out what you're fighting for. Otherwise, all of this—" he gestured to the city, "—won't mean a damn thing."
Liam frowned, his usual confidence momentarily subdued. "What about you? What are you fighting for?"
Toji didn't answer immediately. When he finally spoke, his voice was low. "For me, it's simple. I fight to stay free. To live on my own terms, without anyone trying to control me."
Liam nodded slowly. "I get that."
They fell into another comfortable silence, the weight of Toji's words hanging in the air.
As dawn approached, Toji stood, stretching his arms. "Alright, time to get some rest. We'll need to be sharp tomorrow."
Liam nodded, though he didn't move from his spot.
"Toji," He said after a moment, "Thanks. For everything. You've taught me more than I ever thought possible."
Toji glanced back at him, a rare softness in his eyes. "Don't make me regret it, kid."
With that, he disappeared into the shadows, leaving Liam alone with his thoughts.
Liam took one last look at the city below, the faint glow of the rising sun just beginning to break through the darkness. Tomorrow would be a turning point—a chance to prove himself, to show that he was more than just a student.
With renewed determination, he turned and followed Toji inside, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
--- ✦ ✦ ✦ ---
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