Rael screamed from inside Togis' steel shell.
His body could not regenerate.
His bloodline had slipped into slumber after defeating Sister Sophia.
A mental block now muted most of his powers.
He lay on the floor, clutching his shirt while sweat poured and blood leaked in alarming streams.
As Togis lumbered from the junkyard, the orphans watched in fright.
Rael's cries set fragile children sobbing, smothering any urge to cheer his victory.
Clutching her plush toy, Anne forced herself to speak.
"Will Rael come back?"
Tears streaked her cheeks as she met the old tortoise's eyes.
"My Lord will return. Go home and wait for him. Leave the rest to us adults," Togis said.
He quickened his pace.
Authorities would soon search the site.
Even the city outskirts felt unsafe while Rael howled.
The children watched until the guardian disappeared on the horizon.
Dominica drew Rael's mind into his private virtual room.
Shiran waited there, tail trembling.
