Chapter 60 - Sorry

Several seconds pass without a single word, our eyes locked onto one another in a charged silence. Meanwhile, the watchful crowd holds its breath, anticipating a potential altercation. Tired of the situation, she finally resigns herself to speaking, her voice tinged with bitterness.

_ Maïko: “ Sorry. “

This simple word, though sincere, surprises me. She, being stubborn by nature, is proving to be surprisingly conciliatory. Without me realizing it, my surprise spreads throughout the entire group like wildfire.

_ Maïko: " I'm still angry, but I shouldn't have acted this way. "

In a rush, her neighbor intervenes.

_ Shailly: " I apologize too. You are always thinking about the group's safety. I didn't properly take the seriousness of the situation into account. "

A sigh escapes my lips, as my eyes land on them, empty.

_ Ayden: " I understand that everyone wants to follow through with their convictions. I have my faults too. My words were hurtful, I'm sorry. "

A head shake in denial looms.

_ Shailly: " Don't apologize, it was for a good cause. "

The tension subsided, the entire group exchanging smiles of satisfaction, proud of us. Then, an orphan approaches us, both hands behind his head, in a relaxed manner.

_ Son: " Well there you go! Finally you're not sulking anymore, hehe. "

_ Maïko: " I wasn't sulking. "

_ Son: " Sure, sure. "

The march resumes its course.

_ Maïko: " In any case… "

Gazing eyes turned in her direction.

_ Maïko: “ When I’m older and stronger, I swear I’m going to kill that bastard. “

The determination coupled with the hatred is felt by everyone, sending slight shivers down their spines. At the same time, the monkeys, perched in the trees, start to stir frantically and leave the area, under the keen observation of Blaike.

_ Blaike: " Be vigilant, we are being watched. "

Within the next minute, a swarm of armed Recluses, gradually emerging from their hiding spot, stand up opposite us, most of them also perched on tree branches.

_Ayden: " What the!? "

_ Blaike: " Prepare for a fight. We have company. "