franka

I could never tell what you were thinking, but I always wanted to know...

What kind of outlook on life did someone like you have, someone who is so different from me?

Maybe I instinctively realized that I could learn a lot from you.

I don't remember you learning <i>anything</i> from me.

I've learned plenty. Combat skills, witty retorts... maybe a positive mindset?

Or maybe it would be more accurate to say you forced me to pick them up on my own, to keep up with you.

Take that mission you went on with Laura...

You're Franka.

You might look like you need someone to back you up, but you really don't.

All you needed was someone to give you a little push.

Are you... breaking up with me?

I just wanted you to let you know—

You don't need to worry about me.

Well, you've definitely learned how to get on my nerves, at least.

I learned from the best.

The Thermite Blade pops out of her hand, drawing a dangerous arc as it flies through the air, while the Flash Shield slips from the Vouivre's hand and falls to the ground.

A draw, as usual.

But Franka did not pick up her weapon while making fun of Liskarm, as she normally did.

She simply stands there, lost in thought.

Liskarm waits.

Finally, Franka breaks the silence.

You said you needed to talk with me.

You want to invite me to join your new security company, don't you?

Correct.

Well, I'm not going.

Not yet.

Okay.

Liskarm picks up the Thermite Blade, and Franka the Flash Shield, and they both toss them to the other.

My condition has mostly stabilized.

I want to take a long vacation. Go home and spend some time with my mom.

Maybe have a big fight with her.

And then... I think I'm going to go on a long trip.

A long-term field mission, maybe, to some place far away.

You might even have your company up and running by the time I get back.

Then when the time comes, I'll invite you to hang out.

Don't get ahead of yourself.

Oh?

<i>You're</i> the one who followed me to Rhodes Island, remember?

Maybe someday, after I leave this place, I'll go shamelessly hang out at your office without asking.

Sorry, but you know me. Rules are more important than relationships.

Well, then I guess I'll hang out <i>outside</i> your office and put up a sign with all your most embarrassing secrets.

...How the hell did I end up getting to know someone like you?

You know, that's a great question. My condolences.

So what's for lunch?

Who's buying?

You—

Fine, me. Just for today.