Long sleeves hide scars (Zack X Reader)

Chapter Thirteen

A/N: I'm too lazy to rewatch the anime (and I don't have to time either lol) so I'm going based off what I remember. Sorry if it's not accurate. I'll be dropping chapters every day now. Hopefully this fic is done within the next two weeks.

"Alright, let's move," you muttered, glancing back at Zack.

But before Zack could take a step, his legs gave out beneath him.

"Zack!" you cried, lunging to catch him before he hit the ground. He slumped heavily against you, his breath shallow but steady.

"I'm fine," he muttered weakly, though his eyes stayed closed.

"You keep saying that, and it keeps not being true," you snapped, lowering him gently to the ground. "You're exhausted. You need to rest."

"We don't have time for rest," Rachel said, crouching beside you. "We still need medicine, or he won't recover."

You tightened your grip on Zack's shoulder, frustration boiling under your skin. "And just leave him here? What if something happens while we're gone?"

"He'll survive," Rachel said plainly. "You patched him up, remember?"

"Yeah, but—"

"Stop... arguing," Zack mumbled, cracking one eye open to glare at the both of you. "I'll stay... right here. Just don't take forever."

Your heart clenched as his eyes slid shut again, his face pale but calm.

Rachel stood, her expression unreadable as usual. "We need to go."

You hesitated, your gaze lingering on Zack's still form. Finally, with a reluctant sigh, you stood as well.

"I'll be back," you whispered, your voice soft but resolute. "I promise."

The hallway ahead stretched endlessly, the faint hum of fluorescent lights the only sound. Rachel led the way, her pace steady and determined. You followed closely, your nerves on edge with every step.

After what felt like an eternity, the corridor opened into a vast, cathedral-like space. The air was heavy with the scent of old wood and faint incense. At the center of the room stood a man, his presence commanding yet serene.

"Welcome," he said, his voice smooth and deep. His white robes glimmered faintly in the dim light, and his piercing eyes seemed to see straight through you. "I am Abraham Gray."

Rachel stopped a few feet away from him, her expression unreadable. "Are you in charge of this floor?"

Gray smiled faintly. "In a manner of speaking. I am merely an observer, here to judge the worth of those who pass through." His gaze shifted to you, lingering for a moment. "And who might you be?"

"Someone who doesn't have time for this," you snapped. "We need medical supplies—now."

He chuckled softly, folding his hands in front of him. "Ah, urgency. How predictable. But I can help you—if you are willing to undergo a trial."

Rachel nodded without hesitation. "I'll do it."

You shot her a look. "Are you serious? We don't have time for this!"

"If we don't do what he says, Zack will die," Rachel said calmly.

Gray's gaze flickered between the two of you, his smile widening slightly. "Wise words. But fret not—this trial will not be long. In fact, I will personally guide you to what you seek."

"What's the catch?" you asked warily.

Gray tilted his head. "Simply that you allow me to observe. To test your resolve and your character."