Flaunting Amber

Silence fell over the park as John stood there, breathing heavily.

Elaine slowly got to her feet and looked at him, but footsteps interrupted the silence before she could say anything.

"Well, well," a man's voice boomed through the park.

"Nicely done, John. It seems you've gotten stronger."

The man's silhouette was obscured by the thick mist enveloping the park, but John already knew who he was. He narrowed his eyes and willed Appraisal into view.

[Michael ??]

[Age: ??]

[Strength: 45.1]

[Vitality: 15]

[Agility: 51]

[Energy: 33.2]

"Michael. What a pleasant surprise."

John's tone was laced with sarcasm, and Michael chuckled.

"Oh, don't be like that. You and I can be friends if we put our differences aside."

John shook his head.

"I don't think so, Michael. I can't allow you to keep pursuing Amber."