Brink of Extinction

The three fell silent and did not immediately answer him. Rise was also not in a hurry and had the time to wait. 

"It's actual hell there," Nikolai spoke after a moment of silence. Everyone was aware of what he was talking about. 

He fiddled with his fingers as though itching to get a cigarette to smoke. Yvez only held his hand so he would stop. The two held hands like that. 

Alphen rolled his eyes, even in such a serious setting, they could still become lovey-dovey. 

Rise also glanced and pursed his lips. He was not jealous itself, but just he suddenly missed his Guild Leader. 

"I've never seen it in person, but just the images are enough. It makes you feel grateful that we haven't yet reached that point. But at the same time, I'm feeling uncertain for our future." 

Nikolai spoke in a rare solemn tone, his doubt was evident in his every word. He sighed heavily and tightened his hold on Yvez's hand.