Mike didn't reply immediately, instead closing his eyes and breathing. Give him a minute, Niikura. Excruciating pain was a bit exhausting. Just a bit.

Mike opened up his eyes again, looking up at Niikura when he was finally starting to catch his breath. He didn't want to move for a while, but he knew he'd have to. They had a mission to finish.

Niikura's idea was a good one. With his scars, he was far more intimidating than he used to be. Oh, and the whole giant turtle thing really helped, too.

Mike managed a smirk. "Bait or just scarin' 'em into submission?"