Leo gently bit their lower lip, fully aware that mere words alone could never be enough.
The world, as they knew it, was far from simple, and if fighting was the path to the resolution they sought, then fight they would.
β£
βIt seemed that any leading scientist who worked on the project was killed the moment they couldn't provide any use.β
Leo's gaze remained fixed on the glass as they continued, their words heavy with a seemingly unending burden.
β£
The name "Mishima" alone was enough to send shivers down anyone's spine, and Leo was no exception.
They couldn't escape the harsh reality that their mother was likely not the only one who had suffered at the hands of the Mishima Zaibatsu. This was proof.
β£
Finally, they broke the silence, their voice soft but resolute. βI want to meet with Kazuya Mishima.β
Setting the glass back on the table, Leo continued. βI tried so hard. It's not easy to get close to him outside of the tournaments.β
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It was an unspoken understanding that drew people from all walks of life into the arena, themselves included.
βWhat drew you to the tournament? I doubt it was all about the fighting.β
The subtle glance didn't escape Leo's notice, and it served to ease some of their initial tension.
With a quiet sigh, they loosened their posture, letting go of their sleeves and allowing their arms to fall gently to their sides.
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" i ugh . . haven't really participated in a very long time , so do forgive my ignorance . "
a small , fond smile takes shape as memories of the past begin to flood the mind .
" actually . . i took part only once !
back in the 90s . ( β¨ ) "
βYou participated too?β Leo's voice held a lighter, more curious tone.
They knew all too well that nobody entered the tournament without a reason, and that common thread seemed to bind all participants together.
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A nervous chuckle escaped Leo's lips, reflecting on the attention that had been thrust upon them.
βI wasn't in it for the attention. I heard someone that I'd been looking for would be there.β
Leo's smile faltered as they considered the question, their arms folding across their chest.
It had been a long time since they felt comfortable talking to someone without the looming threat of a fight.
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knowing the awful fame that lingers around her family name these days , she hasn't been too confident in revealing her true name .
" . . my name is jun .
kazama jun .
and yours ? "
βSorry. I'm Leo. Leo Kliesen...β
They paused, their expression softening. βYou might know me. I've gained a bit of unwanted popularity after attending some of the tournaments as a competitor.β
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