Pushing through the thorns brings back old memories, ones from another life. He'd done this once before, he thinks. Twice before. Three times before. That sounds right. It had only been the third time that he actually succeeded.

He hopes he has it right this time.

As they finally break through the last layer of vines, he knows there's no time to spare. He can feel the emotions in the next room - emotions of feeling trapped, of feeling desperate. He can't bring himself to wait to make sure Yuya and Hinawa are following. He kind of wishes they wouldn't. But, he knows they both feel like he does. He can feel that, too.

Nobody wants to leave without the others. How can it be that something so kind can bring so much danger?

The others will see Steven when he runs into the room, emerging from the entrance on the far side. They'll see him before she does, his clothing torn and skin faintly etched. In the past, she would have been able to sense his mere proximity. Now, he knows it won't be until the moment that he reveals himself. It's almost empowering.

"Don't!" he calls out, his fists balled at his sides. "Don't do it."