Ah, and you're quite sure? Don't give them ideas. They might enjoy hearing my dying cries.

( they wouldn't be the only ones. time gives makoto only two things: knowledge and enemies.

as for the soldiers themselves, they seem happier with the captives entertaining themselves by speaking to one another rather than directing unwanted attention and questions towards them. if "happy" is a word that can even be applied to them... they are, for the most part, stone-faced and staring dead ahead as they continue the steady march upwards.

he sighs shortly. ) Let's hope you're right, then. ( a beat, broken as he takes a rattling breath. ) Though someone might have to carry me, if we are meant to go any further after we get to to the top of this cliff. I'm — ( huff, ) not meant for this sort of thing.