𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘- TMR, Minho

011, 𝐦𝐞, 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐦

The sun was beginning its descent, casting long shadows across the scorched landscape. The group had been on the move all day, navigating through treacherous terrain and avoiding WCKD's patrols. Exhaustion was setting in, but their determination was unshaken. They had made it to the edge of an old, half-collapsed city—an ideal place to set up a temporary camp and plan their next move.

Lila and Newt were working together to secure the perimeter. Lila, ever the relentless badass, was overseeing the setup with an almost military precision, while Newt, armed with his trademark sarcasm, provided commentary that made the task bearable.

"Are you sure this is going to keep us safe?" Newt called out, securing a makeshift barricade with a slightly skeptical look. "Because last time I checked, duct tape and good intentions don't exactly stop bullets."

Lila shot him an incredulous look as she adjusted a piece of debris. "If you've got a better idea, feel free to share. Otherwise, you can keep your complaints to yourself and help me set this up."

Newt's grin widened. "Oh, I'm sure this will be just fine. After all, the last time we trusted a makeshift barricade, we ended up playing tag with a Crank horde."

Lila's eyes sparkled with amusement. "And you were brilliant at running away, weren't you?"

"I prefer to think of it as strategic retreat," Newt said, holding up a piece of metal for Lila to examine.

"Strategic retreat, huh? I suppose that's one way to describe you tripping over your own feet and nearly leading us all into a Crank nest."

"Hey, at least I wasn't the one who nearly blew up the camp by accidentally setting off the flare."

Lila laughed, shaking her head. "That was one time. And it wasn't exactly my fault that the flare malfunctioned."

"Sure," Newt said, feigning innocence. "Blaming inanimate objects is always a solid strategy."

They continued working, their banter a rhythm of sarcastic exchanges and practical advice. The camaraderie between them was palpable, even as they teased each other mercilessly. They made an effective team—Lila's sharp instincts and quick decisions balanced perfectly with Newt's dry humor and critical thinking.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the camp was set up, and the group gathered around a small, precarious fire for a much-needed rest. The atmosphere was lighter than usual, with the tension of the day slowly melting away.

Minho sat on a nearby rock, his gaze fixed on Lila and Newt as they continued their witty back-and-forth. "You two are something else," he said, shaking his head. "It's like watching a comedy show and a fight scene all rolled into one."

Lila flashed him a grin. "Glad to entertain. What's the matter, *Hotshot*? Can't handle the competition?"

Minho chuckled. "I can handle it. Just don't expect me to keep up with all the sarcasm."

Newt leaned back, a smirk on his face. "Don't worry, Minho. We'll try not to outshine you too much. Wouldn't want you to feel left out."

Thomas, sitting across the fire from them, couldn't help but join in. "You know, if this whole survival thing doesn't work out, you two could definitely make a career as a comedy duo."

Lila raised an eyebrow. "Comedy duo? Really?"

Thomas shrugged. "Why not? You've got the talent."

"Thanks," Newt said, mock-bowing. "We'll add that to our list of potential careers. Right after 'saving the world.'"

As they ate their meager rations and shared stories of their various adventures, the conversation turned to more serious matters. The group needed to figure out their next move, and Lila and Newt's banter gave way to tactical discussions and planning.

"Okay, here's the deal," Lila said, leaning over a map with a serious expression. "We need to figure out where WCKD's next move is going to be. From what we've seen, they're not going to let up anytime soon."

Newt nodded, pointing to a spot on the map. "We've been avoiding the main roads, which is good. But WCKD's patrols are likely to be more aggressive if they think we're in the area."

Brenda, who had been listening intently, spoke up. "We need to find a way to get ahead of them. Maybe gather some intel on their operations."

"That's the plan," Lila agreed. "But we need to be smart about it. We don't want to walk right into their trap."

The group spent the next few hours strategizing, their focus sharp as they planned their next steps. Lila and Newt continued their playful banter, but it was clear that their partnership was more than just an act. They complemented each other perfectly, each one bringing a unique strength to the table.

As the night wore on and the camp settled into a tense silence, Lila and Newt took a moment to themselves, sitting by the fire and enjoying a rare moment of peace.

"So," Newt said, stretching out his legs. "How's the 'badass' life treating you?"

Lila grinned. "Pretty well, actually. Though I'd be lying if I said I didn't miss a good challenge now and then."

Newt chuckled. "Well, you're certainly getting your share of challenges. Can't say I've ever seen anyone handle Cranks with quite your flair."

"I'll take that as a compliment," Lila said, her voice softening. "Though I couldn't do it without my trusty sidekick."

"Sidekick, huh?" Newt raised an eyebrow. "I'm flattered."

Lila laughed, shaking her head. "Don't get too full of yourself, Newt. Just remember, we make a great team. That's what really matters."

Newt's smile was genuine, his eyes reflecting the flickering firelight. "Agreed. Here's to surviving, and maybe even thriving, in this crazy world."

As they clinked their makeshift cups together, the bond between them was clear. Their banter was more than just a distraction; it was a testament to their resilience and their ability to find light even in the darkest of times.

And as the fire crackled and the stars shone above, Lila and Newt knew that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together—with a good dose of sarcasm and a whole lot of badassery.