Chapter 22: Stares

Liz's Pov:
"Maybe, we should take a different path. Switch it up a bit so, it'll be harder for them to attack us." Violet explained, pointing to different spots of the map. My focus on the map on the table was horrible, my gaze kept going to ExplodingTNT. The mouse hybrid who was currently sitting near the fire. Something about him didn't sit right with me. The way he stared at the fire pit with the flames reflecting in his eyes. "Uh, Liz? Is something wrong?" Daniel asked, noticing my behavior. I should be more sneaky about this or else, I will seem too suspicious to them. "No, I'm sorry. Just checking on TNT, that's all." I replied, partially lying. "Right, well, do we agree with the locations?" Daniel asked everyone. They all nodded quickly as I nodded slowly, my gaze still lingering on TNT. "What about attacks ourselves? What should we do if someone attacks us?" Crystal questions. "I believe we all use the locations to our advantages. If water is available then, we let the water element fight. If fire or flames are near, we let the fire element fight." I explained, shaking my head slightly. I needed to stay on track or else, I would be questioned even more. "Good point because each location seems to let one element gain one advantage. Like over here, the mountains near Zero's base contain a lot of wind meaning I could easily attack." Pink explained, giving me a pat on the back. I chuckled knowing I was helpful enough to answer such a simple question. "Even so, we must be careful. Zero's base could contain a lot of snow meaning Zeph could attack us easily. We have to plan ahead." I explained and everyone made sounds of agreement.

Soon enough, they went back to talking and planning. Yet, everything they said became a blur for me to hear. My eyes went back to staring at ExplodingTNT who kept that emotionless look at his face as the flames reflected in his eyes. His breathing pattern was visible to see as his chest rose up and lowered down after a while. He seemed so lost in thought. Yet the question still remained about what he was thinking about. I heard laughter in that blur and I noticed Purple running up toward TNT. The youngster soon jump-scared the hybrid as TNT showed a fake scared reaction.

I could barely hear what Purple was saying to TNT but, I assumed he told a joke as ExplodingTNT let out a chuckle. Yet, it was all so confusing to me. How can he go from an emotionless, obedient, hybrid to a responsive, parent-like hybrid? It was like he had an 'on and off' switch. So confusing yet, concerning. My gaze finally returned to the others as they seemed to finish up whatever they were talking about. "Do you think the plan works, Liz?" Violet asks. "Mhm, it works. Let's do this!" I say, unconsciously.

I don't even know what I'm saying at this point. The others nod quickly, not even realizing what was going on with me. Which was okay, it was okay, just means I can get away with my somewhat questionable behavior. A behavior even I can't describe. "Are you done now?" The words above ExplodingTNT asked, standing up in his spot. We all turned around to see TNT standing near the firepit with an already sleeping Purple in his arms. "We probably should but, I'll be honest. I don't feel safe with all of us going to sleep." Daniel replied, scratching the back of his head.

"Eh? What do you mean?" I asked, confused at his response. "What I mean is that should we all really fall asleep right after they attacked TNT when we were vulnerable?" Daniel asked, pointing to TNT's wrist. "So, you question now? Weird." Violet replied as ExplodingTNT used his sleeves to cover his wrists. "Agreed but, I guess if it makes you feel safe then, one of us will keep watch tonight," I responded, sighing slightly. "So, who wants to get the night shift?" I asked, turning around to face my group. They all looked at one another and murmured some disagreements of not doing it.

Guessing they value sleep over safety in a situation like this. "I'll do it." The words behind me read. "TNT? Why?" I asked, turning around with my arms crossed. "I mean, sure I did get hurt but, it won't stop me from doing my job, right?" The words explained, handing Purple to Pink and Crystal. "Are you sure, though?" Daniel asked, a worried look at his face. I turned to look the other way, why can't I bear seeing Dan acting this way toward TNT? It makes no sense. TNT is still a stranger and a threat.

I mean, he wasn't allowed to plan anything with us because he just came back from being attacked. Who knows if he is betraying us or Zero put a microphone on him. "I'm sure, Failboat. Stop worrying about me." The words replied, reassuringly. "I don't know..." He mumbled before his eyes landed on me. Oh no. "Liz, mind keeping watch with TNT?" Daniel asked, chuckling slightly. Dangit. I could either take the chance and learn more about TNT. Or not and not gain anything from it. Well, other than a good night of sleep.

"Sure, I'm okay with that!" I explained, giving him a thumbs up and a smile. "Cool, well, goodnight, guys. See you all tomorrow morning!" Daniel spoke before heading to his resting spot. And before you know it, everyone left to sleep, leaving TNT and I alone in the dark with the fire put in front of us. There were long moments of silence with only the fire crackling and I continued to stare at him. "I know what you were doing back there. I know why you are staring at me." The words admitted as TNT looked up.

"Want me to tell you everything?" The words asked and I nodded quickly.

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