>>5752609Rodney is already hard at work by the time you track down Chuck–the grizzled old groundskeeper practically hugging the life out of his pale-skinned daughter much to her chagrin!
“D-dad, c’mooon…” Groans Libby in a tone that only half means it, “I’m… I’m <span class="mu-i">fine</span>, okay? You can let me down-”
“Can’t do that, sweetheart.” He mutters as he doesn’t react to your approach, “<span class="mu-i">GOD</span> I’m so glad you’re okay…”
“Great, spectators…” Sighs the Goth as she shoots a withering glance your way, “Take a picture, why don’t ya? It’ll last longer.”
As tempting as that is, you counter, you need to talk to her dad for a sec… but for what it’s worth you’re glad she’s okay!
“Not for lack of trying…” The girl grumbles as her dad finally releases her. “Spent the whole night tromping through the woods chased by those dog things… would’ve been loads easier if I could get the hang of those damn spells I’ve been practicing…”
“Language, Lib.” Scolds Chuck with a hint of amusement in his voice. “Can’t remember the last time I saw someone take down Smythe, kiddo–especially without an iron.”
You said it before, you shrug, you’re just special!
“I’ll say.” Nods the old man in approval, “Not much we can do about Hauser, but I reckon you’re not here to chat about that…”
You know where Rivka is, you whisper as you point towards the hologram, and-
“And you’re rounding up the posse, right?” Chuck concludes. “Just tell me where we’re goin’, kid.”
“Wait,” stammers Libby as she realizes what’s happening, “You’re… you’re leaving again?” The groundskeeper gives the girl’s hair a gentle tousle with one of his calloused hands.
“Never leave a job half-finished, Lib. Been saying that for years.”
“R-right, but what it-”
“It’s okay, honey, it’ll take more than some mutated freaks to take daddy down.”
Giving you a nod, Chuck takes a few steps towards his truck before pausing.
“Gonna see if any of these idiots have keys for their vehicles.” He begins as his gaze shifts towards one of the <span class="mu-s">SECURITY APCS</span> with a <span class="mu-s">MOUNTED GUN</span> on top, “Come find me when you’re ready to ride.”
Watching Chuck make his rounds, you feel a soft hand fall onto your shoulder. Yea?
“We haven’t talked much,” begins Libby in a measured tone, “But promise me-”
I’ll keep him safe, you reassure her with a confident smile. Not that he needs a lot of protection!
“Pssh, <span class="mu-i">bullshit</span>.” The Goth replies with a wry grin in her tone! “He acts tough, but he’s a total softie. Just keep an eye on him, yea?”
As long as she watches where she shoots <span class="mu-i">flames</span>, you smirk, earning a glare from the girl’s dark eyes!
“Th-that was a mistake, okay?! And it worked, so shut up!” Kicking your behind with one of her platform boots, the girl crosses her arms and growls as you seek your next companion…
>CONTD. 