The innocence of a victim
It's Grasshopper who speaks. His tone is far from happy, but is more cheerful than Jade's grim look.
"Our resources are limited. If we are to stop the Ascended, we won't be able to take many prisoners, regardless. There's not enough time to wait for reinforcements, either. From what you said, it's likely that the Ascended will spread further when they exhaust prey in the town. In short… We agree to your offer, Mister Ezekiel."
"Then it's decided." Zeke nods, then turns to look at me. "Does that decision bring you joy, my Maya?"
I meet his eyes with a tired look of my own. "The only thing that would bring me joy right now is to see Rose happy again. And a long, relaxing bath."
He nods. "Then let's make haste."
No one disagrees.
Willow Creek isn't far, but the four of us have to walk there on foot, and Zeke can't—or at least, won't—carry the agents. He offers to carry me, but I refuse. The agents are already too curious about me, him, and us.