Track of the Apocalypse Ch13 Ficbit – Worry

They’d destroyed a Fused Colony! What was a crowd next to that? Kajika hadn’t felt anything like this when they’d hit the Shitori markets last time-

And… if Sukari was worried about hordes, why was he watching the crowds, instead of the walls?

Unless he wasn’t worried about Kabane at all. Because last time they’d torn through Shitori’s markets had been before Biba the Liberator had made his triumphant march down the rails; days before he’d shown them all just how effective walls were when the enemy was already inside. And even though his Hunters were gone, she could still see the glitter of flames in angry, terrified eyes, as the mob of Kongokaku started forward to burn them all….

It’s over. Lady Ayame stopped them. They’re just people now. Scared, angry people.

And what would happen, a shivering corner of Kajika’s mind whispered, if the folk of Shitori were ever that terrified?

“We’re hemmed in.” Sukari kept walking, cool and calm as if he were trading out a cylinder in the face of a horde. “It’s not safe.” The blond gave them all one of his plotting half-smiles. “But we have a secret weapon.” He nodded at Hozumi. “If we were trapped, you’d show us the best way to get out. Even if it went over roofs.”

“Of course!” Hozumi straightened, eyes proud and determined. “That’s your bodyguard’s job.”

Kajika breathed out, relieved. Sukari was right. They might not be armed, not really; but Hozumi was always a Kabaneri. “Good. We trust you to get us all home safe.”

For a moment, Sukari shaded his eyes, like he wanted a better look at the manor. “Let’s hope we all get back safe.”