บท 79: BLOOD

Josh, with an almost mechanical lack of emotion, responded, "It's a tough choice, but I'm gonna have to turn you down."

The subtle shift in the atmosphere was palpable as the guy's smile waned, prompting him to question, "Why?"

In this charged moment, the unspoken tension hung in the air, awaiting an explanation that would determine the course of events.

Josh maintained a calm demeanor as he held Ashley's hand, sharing a reassuring smile with her. "They saved Ashley's life and my own," he explained.

However, the guy leading the opposing group dismissed such actions, asserting, "That's their duty. That's the reason for our taxes. That's no reason to serve them. If you want to show gratitude, we can let them serve us when we rule."

Kyle, unimpressed, chimed in, "Dude, if you didn't realize how wrong the last part sounded, then you're too far gone."

Emma added her dissent, stating firmly, "That's a no from all of us."