Open The Trenches Champion, or Criminal?

[Jill (The Beast)]

Beast had been partially trying to listen to Sean, but was more-so interested in watching Tizzi. As the little thing ran off, they turned to Sean.

“Sean, stop.” They signed. “It doesn’t matter how good of a fighter I am, if I can’t even help where it matters. That kit needs me.”

With those words, Beast bounded after Tizzi, but quickly lost them. The little kit was fast, and even Beast with their acrobatic prowess couldn’t keep up.

Beast removed their mask, and Jill called out.

“Tizzi!” They called out hoarsely, holding Mask under one arm. “Tizzi, come back!”

Jill sighed, looking around. “I have more food!” They sat down their knapsack and opened it, this time pulling out another loaf of bread, still soft and slightly warm. “Please, come back!” Each word tore at her throat, like claws ripping at her flesh.

“You can have-!” Jill coughed. “As much food as you’d like!” They looked around, desperately now, trying against all odds to follow Tizzi’s trail.

“Please, I want to help you!” Jill coughed again, nearly doubling over. “You won’t go hungry again!”

Jill shouted into the air, hoping they would be heard. “I promise!”

 

[Sean Wicke]

Sean followed after Jill, moving more sedately, purpose in his steps. "Kid," he said, his voice soft but firm. "You can't save 'em all. Most folks don't even want help, and they'll spit on you if you try. If you hang your whole life on it, it'll just crush you."

 

[Jill (The Beast)]

Jill turned to Sean, despair evident in her eyes. "I have to at least try." She lamented. "I won't know if they need or want help... if I don't try. That's... that's what being a hero is. To me."

Jill took a deep breath. "I have to try and help others. Even if it seems hopeless... because I want there to always be hope. I want to try and help others, even if they don't want it... because they might need it."