Reunions and Unexpected Alliance

Terms used in this chapter:

Hot-wiring: Hot-wiring is the process of bypassing a motor vehicle's ignition switch and thus starting it without the key. It is often utilized during vehicle theft. However, a legitimate vehicle owner who has lost a vehicle key or started a vehicle with an inoperable ignition switch (e.g. in run-down old cars) may also implement this process.

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*crack* *shatter*

Shroud shattered the barrier of the driver's window, allowing access to the van's interior.

With a deft touch, he coaxed the door open and proceeded to initiate the van's ignition through a method known to those well-versed in the world of the unorthodox (Hotwiring).

With delicate precision, he began the process of removing the plastic trim, revealing the intricate web of wires concealed beneath.

His fingers began navigating the labyrinthine network, carefully tracing the pathways and connections. Then, his focus shifted to the task at hand – the search for two specific wires within this intricate tangle (The 12V wire and the Ignition wire).

His fingers, guided by a blend of expertise and instinct, hunted down the 12V wire – a connection to a 12V battery necessary for enabling the electrical systems to store energy for use when the engine isn't running.

Alongside, he located the ignition wire, which is connected to the ignition coil in a spark-ignition engine's ignition system.

This transformation of battery voltage to significantly higher levels is essential for operating the spark plug(s).

A/N: I will give a stern warning. Do not attempt this in someone else car.

"Alright, with this, we've just scored ourselves a ride," Shroud announced to the group. He cast a meaningful glance towards Robert and the others, ushering them to climb aboard.

Arie and Dwin eagerly hopped on, oblivious to the unfolding situation. Their excitement at the prospect of avoiding further walking overrode any other thoughts, as fatigue from the journey began to set in.

In contrast, Robert and Emery exchanged uncertain glances. Shroud's keen eye caught this unspoken exchange, prompting him to inquire about their concern. It was Robert who finally voiced it.

"I have no idea how to drive," Robert admitted, a tinge of embarrassment colouring his words.

The situation had taken an unexpected turn. Despite Shroud's previous experiences with driving in his world, those memories faded during his extended stay in the Abyss, leaving him with a significant gap in such practical skills.

"*Hah*, I guess walking it is then," Shroud conceded with a sigh of resignation. This shift in plans brought forth a sour mood from Arie and Dwin.

The strain of walking was particularly challenging for the young duo. Their juvenile frames lacked the physical endurance and energy of the other three.

Even Shroud was disappointed, not because he needed to walk, but due to the nagging uncertainty about their chances of encountering the forces of Honkai while trekking all the way to New Jersey on foot.

While walking was not an insurmountable task, time remained their most pressing concern due to the lack of information on how far the Honkai forces had advanced up to this point.

The relentless advance of the Honkai army was a pressing reality that weighed heavily on his mind. He could only hope that the group could reach New Jersey swiftly, outpacing the spread of the Honkai forces.

With no alternative in sight, Shroud opted to exit the van. Yet, as he exited, his attention snagged on two distant silhouettes trailing behind Robert and Emery. This sight jolted Shroud's senses, as the notion of encountering zombies crept into his mind.

"Looks like we've got some company," Shroud alerted Robert and Emery to the presence of the unknown pair steadily approaching.

Reacting to Shroud's caution, Robert and Emery pivoted to glance behind them, just as Shroud had suggested. Two indistinct forms became discernible in the distance, confirming what Shroud had just mentioned.

Robert instinctively positioned himself in front of Emery, shielding her with his presence. Emery's cheeks warmed with a subtle blush at Robert's protective gesture, though she remained attentive to the approaching strangers.

United in their readiness, the group held their ground, allowing the distant figures to gradually materialize as they drew closer.

Among the approaching figures, one stood out—a woman with shoulder-length blonde hair cascading like sunlight, her translucent blue eyes and porcelain skin creating an ethereal presence.

She wore a white shirt paired with a light-brown office skirt, her appearance seemingly late-teen but hinting at a hidden age. Her demeanour exuded unshakable confidence and determination, etched onto her features.

Beside her was another woman, her caramel skin a striking contrast to her raven hair and shimmering yellow eyes.

Draped in a white shirt adorned with a tie, she sported a grey skirt that seemed uniform-like. However, unlike her companion, traces of unease flickered within her gaze.

Despite their dishevelled state, both women radiated beauty, an enchanting sight to behold.

"Wait, aren't those two..." Robert's words tapered off, his recognition sparking as he identified the familiar faces.

"Look, it's the cool Aunty and the timid sister!" Arie and Dwin's voices chimed harmoniously, brimming with excitement as they recognized the two familiar figures.

"Arie, Dwin! Remember to address others respectfully," Robert and Emery interjected simultaneously, their words aligning in parental synchrony as they gently reprimanded their children.

Observing this endearing family interaction, Shroud's lips curved into a faint smile. "You have a truly heartwarming family, Robert," he remarked, his voice a soft undercurrent of appreciation.

"In fact, I must admit, I'm a tad envious," Shroud added in a barely audible murmur. Witnessing the familial bond between Robert and his loved ones tugged at Shroud's memories, even if they were faintly present in his recollections.

A fleeting wave of melancholy swept over Shroud, casting a shadow across his expression. Yet, he swiftly shook off the sentiment, recognizing that dwelling in the past was a luxury the present could ill afford.

Regaining his focus, Shroud directed Arie and Dwin to remain in the van, earning their respectful acknowledgement with a crisp "Yes, sir." Stepping forward, he positioned himself at the forefront to greet the approaching pair.

"Greetings, Miss Amelia and Miss Julie. I reckon there's no need to reintroduce myself unless my name slipped your minds already," Shroud said, flashing a smile and adding a touch of humour to the conversation.

"Haha, certainly not, Mr... Shroud, and if memory serves me right, your names were Mr Robert and Miss Emery, right? Hello there," Amelia replied to Shroud, offering a smile as well. Despite a brief pause, she ensured she got the names right.

"Yes, hello Miss Amile, Miss Julie. It's quite unexpected to see you two here," Robert acknowledged, his curiosity piqued by the arrival of Amelia and Julie.

Emery followed up, her tone careful but direct. "Forgive us if our curiosity seems abrupt, but could you shed some light on the reason for your presence and the whereabouts of the rest of your group?" The question mirrored the thoughts that swirled in both her and her husband's minds.

While uncertainty clouded the minds of Emery and Robert, Shroud projected an air of calm composure, as if he held insight into the events following Amelia and Julie's departure from their previous group.

Amelia and Julie's expressions shifted to a more sombre note, as they recollected the events of a few hours ago. Sensing the gravity of their expressions, Emery's concern flickered, and she began to apologize, only to be halted by Amelia's intervention.

"No need for apologies, Miss Emery," Amelia reassured, her tone gentle. She then delved into a detailed account of the recent events, a narrative that furrowed the brows of both Emery and Robert.

The reality of being forcibly separated from their former group was difficult for them to process. In the end, Julie also added that it was due to a piece of information which Shroud had secretly shared with her.

Robert's gaze shifted to Shroud, seeking some form of insight. Shroud, however, maintained his characteristic inscrutable expression.

Sensing the unspoken query in Robert's gaze, Shroud chose to disclose a measure of information.

His voice steady, he began to explain his suspicion: the proximity of the city's warehouse to the bridge linking Queens and Manhattan might have made it a prime target for the advancing Honkai forces.

Adding to the conversation, Shroud disclosed his involvement, explaining that he had shared this information with Julie, considering her willingness to respond. This admission subtly hinted at a reciprocal trade of information.

With Shroud's explanation concluded Robert sought validation from Emery, who confirmed his words with a nod.

At that moment, Emery's gaze shifted to Shroud, a subtle reproach woven into her words. "Shroud, it might have been better if you had informed the group about this earlier."

Shroud's expression remained composed, though a trace of understanding crossed his features, acknowledging Emery's point.

In response to Emery's query, Shroud explained that he had intended to disclose the situation to the group, were it not for Leo's intervention.

Leo's actions had inadvertently led to a misunderstanding that cast doubt on Shroud's credibility. Only Julie, who had interacted with Shroud earlier, seemed inclined to believe his words.

Hearing Shroud's response, Julie's brows furrowed in surprise. "You believed I would trust you?" she questioned.

Meeting her gaze squarely, Shroud replied, "Honestly, it was a toss-up. But I felt it was equitable to offer you at least that much, ensuring your group would be spared potential catastrophes."

It was a white lie, or perhaps a half-truth. Shroud's internal conviction was far more certain than he let on; he had been about 90% sure that Julie would lend credence to his words. Yet, even if Julie hadn't believed him, Shroud was willing to bear that outcome.

In an effort to steer the conversation in another direction, Shroud redirected the dialogue. "Speaking of which, I assume your purpose for seeking us out is to join our group, am I correct?" he inquired, delving into a new avenue of discussion.

Amelia replied with a touch of embarrassment, "Yes," while Julie nodded in agreement.

Observing their responses, Shroud offered a nod of understanding, but his countenance swiftly shifted to a more solemn aspect. This change in demeanour prompted a palpable unease to settle upon both Amelia and Julie.

Despite Shroud's youthful appearance, Amelia and Julie recognized him as the group's leader. Shroud's voice drew their attention as he addressed them.

"Miss Amelia, Miss Julie," Shroud's voice rang out, and both women responded in synchrony with a tentative "Yes."

Pausing for a moment, Shroud continued, "There's no issue with both of you joining us, but..."

Curiosity piqued, Amelia and Julie exchanged a glance, their anticipation growing. Shroud gestured toward the van behind him and posed a question, "It seems none of us among this group know how to drive. So, do either of you possess the skill?"

To be continued...

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A/N: I hope you enjoy the chapter and feel free to comment. Your thoughts and criticism are valuable in helping me improve and stay motivated to write more.

Also, there is a slight change in the story, a few chapters ago, I made a mistake regarding Amelia's age. She is actually in her late 20s.

I believe it was a typing error that initially led me to set her age in her late 30s. I have already corrected this, and that's the only change you need to be aware of for now. I will review the previous chapters again and will inform you about any changes in the next chapter if there are any.