"Why 'hope'? It just seems like the thing we need during these times. Not just for the locals but us outworlders as well." The date of reckoning was approaching after all.

He placed the brush down next to the ink bowl.

"And, if I'm honest, it's also a bit of a selfish reminder to myself. I had let myself to wallow in my own despair after Takeshi and Bonnie disappeared. I wouldn't be able to look at my family in the eye if they saw me like this."