“The kind that ties up loose ends.” Ben said, his face unreadable under that mask. “Varnae’s associates might try to slip away, and Jake Sully over here says that Mina wants to prevent that from happening.”

He jabbed a thumb over in James’ direction.

“My name is James.” he corrected. “But yes, he is right. My father cannot be allowed to escape.”

“Mina thinks she’s identified an escape route that Skul might use if things get too hot.” Ben continued. “The Weres are gonna try and cut him off when they move to flank Varnae’s forces.”

“She told you all that?” you said, unable to hide your surprise.

James nodded.

“She says that anyone who knowingly participates in a plan to potentially destroy the world should either be ‘swiftly crushed’ or ‘severely punished’.” he explained.

“Her brother could certainly learn a thing or two from her.” Young said, nodding her approval.

“What about Belasco?” you put in. “If we can’t stop him, then that still leaves an army of Hellbats to deal with.”

Young gave you a curious look at the mention of a ‘Hellbat’, but you trusted her ability to piece together your meaning.

“You let me worry about that.” Ben reassured you. “I’ll go kick him right back down to whatever hell dimension he’s crawled out of.”

“It is called Limbo.” James helpfully answered.

“Right. That one.” Ben said, reaching over to tousle your hair. “Promise me you'll stay safe out there?”

You smiled.

“I promise.” you lied. “You guys too. Don’t do anything too crazy.”

Ben nodded, but didn’t say anything. You had a feeling that you weren’t the only one lying here.

Harpy chose that moment to flap her mighty wings, kicking up black sand everywhere as she rose into the air. You covered your eyes, and just barely missed the moment where she snatched up both Ben and James.

“Good luck!” you shouted, waving at them with both arms as they continued to ascend.

“You too! Look out for her, Young!”

“Of course I will! You don’t have to tell me!” she shouted back, shaking a fist at him.

Ben waved back as well. James tried to, but he seemed utterly mortified by the thought of using his hands for anything other than holding onto Harpy for dear life.

“Your guardian is an interesting man.” Young said, still looking up at him. “I should thank him properly for everything he’s done for you.”

“Yeah. Me too...” you agreed, watching as the three of them soared higher and higher into the sky.

Soon after that, it was time for your group to start moving. The Kaiju brought up the rear, and you could visibly see the relief that they felt from receiving the Kaiju King’s support.

“Varnae won’t know what hit him.” you said, smiling back at the volunteer army you had assembled.

—------

(Cont.)