This was no longer just a battle—it was a mission to end a nightmare. After we ate, we moved on to oversee the distribution of the vests and ammunition. The day was gruelling. Every detail needed to be checked, every piece of equipment accounted for. I found myself sitting more often than not, my body reminding me of its limits. A young Kappa carried my chair wherever I needed it, her sweet and earnest nature a small beacon of kindness amid the chaos. She worked tirelessly, and while I appreciated her help, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt. She was so kind, so full of life, that I wished she wouldn’t have to face the horrors awaiting us. By the end of the day, everyone had received their vests and helmets. The next step was testing. One by one, the warriors tested the gear

