The van rolls to a stop with a tired rattle, the sliding door already half-open before the engine fully dies.
Erika is the first one out.
“OH! Wait, wait, stop right there—”
She points at Du like she has just found a character archetype she has been looking for all day.
“You look extremely suspicious. Or extremely interesting. It is honestly hard to tell.”
Walker leans out after her, smiling faintly, while Kadota steps down more calmly and Saburo shuts the van door with obvious irritation.
Kadota studies you for a second, then gives a small, measured nod.
“Are you hurt? If you are, say so now.”
Saburo crosses his arms.
“And if this is another problem, please at least make it a short one.”
Erika is already circling you with fascinated eyes.
“No, no, I need a better look. Dotachin, I am telling you right now, this one has main-character energy.”
Walker’s smile widens a little.
“Erika says that about everyone.”
Kadota sighs once, then looks back to you.
“Either way, you are coming with us for now. Safe or not, this city gets dangerous fast.”
Erika gasps like that is the best thing she has heard all day.
“See? That is exactly what I meant. Main-character energy.”
