Fallen Rose

Chamber of Reflections - Part 3

The young girl was sat by the window pane, taking in the stormy morning. Jasmine sat in front as she stroked his fur, gentle with the sleeping cat. The sidewalks were quiet, most people passing by just trying to get out of the rain, off to work or otherwise. There was clear anxiety amongst everyone, something sinister throughout the air. Even if all the events up to now happened between this group, the destruction had been left behind. She sighed at the melancholic sights, feeling a warm hand on her shoulder. She looked up to find the girl with the half-shaved hair, messy and sleepy-eyed.

"Your dad'll be okay, kiddo..." She spoke sweetly, "I know he's got good friends to back him up."

She was quiet, nothing but a glance in return.

"Ohh..." She knelt beside her, "Minh... It'll be fine... Your papa is strong, and so is Billy, and everyone else put up a good fight. We'll keep you safe here, ok?"

"..."

Minh turned to her, nuzzling into her grip. She could hear sniffles, as well as groggy shuffling.

"Chelsea...?" A hand was felt on her head, a shaky breath following, "What is she doing here...?"

"Valerie, Zumm brought her over while the rest go and fight that Carsmile guy... Are you alright?" She finally caught the young woman, whose hair was down in gold streaked curls, lips quivering with teary eyes.

"I don't think I'll be alright for a while..." She softly admitted, crouching next to her. "Do you really think Billy will be okay?"

"If he and his friends were able to do all that...I'd hope one guy would be no problem..."

"Mmm..." She moaned, leaning against her. "I don't want to lose another friend...."

"We won't...I hope... I believe in them. Like he said, we'll be hanging out with him in a matter of hours..." She wryly chuckled to herself, wrapping an arm around her friend as well.

"They were pretty strong back there... Maybe..." She snuggled into Chelsea, putting a hand on Minh's shoulder as well. "How is she?"

"...." Minh was silent, groaning a bit.

"I'm sure she's scared, but I can't talk for her..." She combed her fingers through her hair. "Maybe we can find something to do in a bit to distract us all?"

"How about you guys start with some breakfast?" They heard a knock, Zumm Zumm peeking in. "Good morning! I got our chefs started with a nice meal for you guys if you're hungry?"

"I should probably eat... What about you, Val?"

"Yes, please..." She pulled away from Chelsea, picking herself up. "I could go for a good meal..."

"And how about the young lady?" Zumm had let herself in, knelt by the trio, rubbing Minh's back, "Are you up for it?"

"Mmm..." She tried to speak, holding back.

"Mrooww..." Jasmine piped up, hopping down and nuzzling Minh.

"We made breakfast for your kitty cat, too!"

"Really...?" Minh faintly perked up, gazing at the woman. "Well... I guess..."

"Great." Zumm smiled warmly, "Come on then! The tables all set! Also, don't worry about work today... stay up here as long as you need until you feel better, okay?"

"Thanks..." Chelsea returned the expression, though sheepishly. She stood up with Minh, taking her by the hand after she picked up Jasmine. They walked out rather quietly, the youngest keeping an eye on the window in worry. Will her dad and everyone be okay...? Maybe if she could do what she did against Thanh... they were strong enough against him.