Branch D-02, part 9 (after battle)

Perhaps the time spent off the battlefield has rusted the old soldier's prowess.

The head manager, who must have defeated countless enemies in his prime, was now facing his own end.

People used to respect you, Gregor...

... I never asked them to.

Don't proceed any further... Only hell awaits you.

Sorry, but I don't think I can follow your advice. I ought to be a go-getter if I don't wanna be fired.

Have you abandoned your honor... for some pittance?

Sold it in a bundle along with my medal. The landlord was getting real impatient about my rent, you see.

The head manager smiled bitterly as he expired.

You're... no different from us...

In the end, we're...

... nothing... but disgusting pests...

He took a few more shallow breaths, then ceased to move.

... Hey, mind if I borrow a cig?

... Just this once.

Gregor put the borrowed cigarette next to the one he already held in his mouth, lit it, then tossed it on the chest of the deceased commander.

Sorry, didn't wanna share mine with that thing.

... Hmph.

Ryōshū gave a snort. For a short while, the smoke from Gregor's cigarette lingered in the air with prevailing silence.