11

As you approach the Town Hall, you spot a cluster of people standing just outside its main doors. Catching sight of the signs they're holding, you realize this must be Rana's protest: her last chance to try and win people over. The group isn't quite as big as it was the other day, but the ones who are there are unmistakably determined. Although none of them are making much noise, their eyes are fixed on the street, readying their cardboard signs so they can't possibly be missed.

As you walk past, Rana herself doesn't seem to see you. From the look of things, she's a little too busy giving quiet instructions to the group to look up and see who's walking by.

Somebody else does stop when he sees you, however. Tobias, standing just beside Rana, does a double take as he catches your eye—and gives you a wave.

With a glance back at the others, Tobias steps away from the crowd and comes towards you. He looks a little sheepish as he says:

"I didn't think I would come, but Rana asked if I'd help again, and—yeah. It's been so long since I've seen anybody, and she said they're all going out to eat after—I guess I just figured, why not?"

He laughs a little nervously, as if he feels like he has to play down his enthusiasm. But you can see in his eyes that, in spite of his apprehension, he's actually quite excited to be here. And from what he's told you, it's been a long time since he's let himself get excited about spending time with people.

With another wave, he heads back towards the others. It's a little strange seeing him amongst so many people, but you can't deny he looks happy to be with them all. As you head into the Town Hall, you see him turn to listen to one of the other protesters, and a smile starts to grow on his face as he replies.

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