"Yeah, of course you have to do some dirty work - which is why I said you shouldn't be serious all of the time. You have to relax once in a while, right?" Sanae laughed. "It's a fine balance, I know.

"And I mean, if we get up to the head honcho's place, chances are we'll have access to whatever stuff they used to limit everyone, so there's that problem solved. Understanding, naturally, that it's a long way to the top - but that's just part of the fun." Man, it was really hard to get the point across without directly mentioning his involvement in the Game. Secrecy was a bitch.

"As for me, you got it right on the dot: basically what I'd do is restore everyone's powers, send 'em home, take or copy the tech, and then blow the whole thing up to kingdom come - in that order, if possible. Pretty fairy tale, huh? But it's what I'd do." Of course, this was assuming he'd be the one in charge. Joshua no doubt had his own plans. But Sanae would support him no matter what, because that was his job. And because they were friends.

He suddenly remembered formalities. "Oh and by the way, I'm Sanae Hanekoma - or Mr. H, if ya like. Not a lawyer obviously, but if you guessed barista, that'd be it!" Sanae extended a hand. "Kind of an abrupt introduction, I know, but it's now or never, right?"