We're almost there. Just a few steps more, then we can rest for the night. You're holding your head up against me, clinging to my side. We've been trekking up this accursed mountain for a while, and I can tell you're tired. You're hanging an arm over my shoulders to keep yourself upright. You haven't said a word since the ice cave. You don't hate me, do you? "I'm fine, Mako. I don't hate you. Just tired. Just a few more steps, right?" Right! We can't fail now! We're already on a good streak. Nothing can stop us! "You sound like you're trying to convince yourself of that. Are you alright?" I'm fine! Just peachy. Just gotta keep the positive energy going and flowing. "Maks... maybe we should call it quits. You seem... off. I appreciate you and all, but, if you're tired too, I don't want you to push yourself." You have a point, but, it's not like I wanna stop... Fine. We can rest here. I think the other two already set up their site, so it's just the two of us tonight. It's been a while since we've been alone, you know? ... "Okay! I think the tent's pitched." Wonderful! You're a real craftsman- I mean, craftswoman, Ika. No fire tonight - we have to get up early, so no after dark stuff! Sorry. We hop in the tent, kiss each other goodnight, and try to drift off to sleep. I'm thinking to myself. That dream I had once... with the lady, the green hair that was like, burnt, or dyed with charcoal, or something, was that *her*? She's the only other person I know that intentionally keeps their hair green. There could be no mistaking it. But, like... it's probably just a dream. Ika was never the type to soot their hair, they care about it so deeply... I think. ... This time, the night doesn't hold any surprises. I drift off to sleep, as you do, letting the actors in my head take their time to set up the [[Stage]].