Ally Life (Title Might Change)

Chapter 7 - Concern and Transformation

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A fair trade, promises of allies, alive because of morals. Scott knew it was only a matter of time before people opposed their own good nature. He didn't want to win again.

He couldn't let them have another go at him.

A burning tree, carcasses of wolves, lightning strikes signaling an ally's death.

A betrayal of the sword, a glare hybrid caught by surprise, an ogre laid to rest.

Another sacrifice...

...

A loner reigns victorious.

...

The sun brings success, the star creates healing, the moon causes slander, the tower commands liberation, and the fool inspires faith.

Who will the next one be?

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Awakening with a start, Scott found himself back in his reality, Skizz's words echoing from a past season: "You are just bulletproof."

Contemplating the weight of such resilience, Scott couldn't help but wonder how genuinely bulletproof he was in a world where alliances crumbled, sacrifices were made, and the unpredictable dance of fate continued to unfold.

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"Scott!" The unmistakable voice of a familiar woman echoed through the room just before the door swung open with force. "What the heck?!" The exclamation was followed by another voice, this time male. "Seriously though, what was that?! What are you doing?"

With a knowing smile, Scott looked up to find Gem and Impulse standing in his doorway, clearly perturbed. "Gem, Impulse, calm down. I'm fine. Yes, it hurt, but it's okay."

Both Gem and Impulse shot him skeptical glares. "You aren't usually this careless with your life. What's going on?" Gem, with her fiery red hair, let out an exasperated sigh. "Why are you like this?"

Scott rolled his eyes in mock offense. "Come on. I'm not that bad! It was just an accident. I wasn't paying attention and ended up accidentally mining straight into a ravine. It happens!"

The room held a tense pause as his friends continued scrutinizing him, clearly unconvinced by his casual explanation.

Gem crossed her arms, her expression skeptical. "Accidentally mining into a ravine? Scott, you've been playing this game for years. You don't make rookie mistakes like that."

Impulse chimed in, his brow furrowed. "Yeah, something's off. You're usually more careful. What's really going on?"

Scott maintained his nonchalant facade, his smile unwavering. "Look, I appreciate your concern, but there's nothing to worry about. It was just a momentary lapse in concentration. I'll be more careful next time."

Gem and Impulse exchanged glances, unconvinced by Scott's explanation. Gem sighed, relenting for the moment. "Fine, but don't make a habit of it. We don't need you getting yourself killed over some reckless stunt."

Scott nodded, maintaining the giddy grin from earlier. "Don't worry, Gem. I've got everything under control." As his friends left, Scott's mind buzzed with anticipation, knowing that the next steps of his plan were now in motion.

Several minutes drifted by in a hushed ambiance, with only the soft humming of Scott breaking the otherwise silent atmosphere. The room held a certain stillness until an abrupt knock at the door disrupted the tranquility. "Come in!" Scott's voice carried through the room as he swiftly closed the half-organized chest.