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Outside after the Yangchuanosaurus rammed its head into the steel door multiple times, it simply gave up it wounds were fatal and its body were extremely tired and weary ontop of the fact that it was slowly becoming nighttime, he could try and most definitely successfully break down the door another time but for now..he needed to head back to his territory and heal. The Yangchuanosaurus limped through the darkening landscape, its massive, muscular body That weighed around 12.9 metric tons(14.2 short tons) and was 11.44m (37.5ft) long alongside being 6.13 meters (20.11 feet tall) worn down by the heavy toll of the battle. Blood, dark and sticky, oozed from several deep gashes along its flank. Its once-powerful legs faltered under the strain, the immense creature dragging itself forward, driven by instinct and a need to heal. The cold wind howled through the hills, and the dense fog, still thick from its earlier mist attack, hung in the air like a ghostly shroud. The distant sounds of chaos in the bunker had faded, leaving nothing but the eerie silence of the wasteland.

Once it got far enough from the bunker going through the forest and nearing its territory, something extraordinary began to happen, Snowflakes began to fall, drifting from the darkened sky in an eerie, haunting stillness. The first few flakes seemed innocent enough as the Yangchuanosaurus opened its mouth up to nom and eat the snowflakes from time to time, but as the temperature dropped, the snow began to intensify, coating the landscape in a soft, relentless blanket of white. The pale moonlight reflected off the falling snow, casting an otherworldly glow over the scene and as the hours passed the yangchuanosaurus was caught up in a snowstorm. The Yangchuanosaurus's breathing was now labored, the steady exhale of its nostrils filling the cold air. It paused for a moment, its glowing, bloodshot eyes scanning the horizon. Despite the pain, the creature's instincts told it to retreat to safer ground, somewhere it could rest and recover was near it could feel it. The thick mist had concealed the monster's movements long enough, but it knew time was running out. Its wounds, now seeping with fresh blood, were weakening it. The powerful predator was no longer the unstoppable force it once had been; the fight had drained its strength.

As it trudged through the snow-covered hillside, the wind began to pick up, howling through the trees and creating an unsettling chorus of nature's fury. The Yangchuanosaurus's massive legs left deep impressions in the snow as it staggered forward, each step a heavy strain on its already exhausted body. Its tail, usually a weapon of precision, now dragged along the snow, and its posture hunched in pain it was weakening immensely, But just as it was about to move into the outskirts of its own territory, a chilling sound pierced through the whistling wind. The sharp, echoing cry of two creatures on the hunt. The Yangchuanosaurus froze mid-step. Its head snapped toward the sound, nostrils flaring as it searched for the source. The snow was falling heavier now, coating everything in a thick, icy layer, but the creature's instincts screamed at it to be alert. The call came again a shrill, chilling screech that seemed to come from all around. It was close, dangerously close. From the shadows of the forest on the far side of the hill, two massive shapes emerged. They were larger than any standard raptor, but their slow, purposeful steps betrayed a far more ominous presence. These were the dinosaur that was once known as the largest-known species of theropod with direct evidence of feathers, forty times heavier than the previous record holder,. Yutyrannus.

The snow seemed to intensify as the two predators covered in thick, white feathers emerged from the trees, their pale, frosty forms nearly blending into the snowstorm. The first Yutyrannus , larger and more dominant than its companion being 6.08 metric tons (6.7 short tons) and 12.87-15.03 m (42.2-49.3 ft) long with her head being 4.6 Meters tall (15.09 feet)

feet tall, stepped down the slope and then letted out a growl, her sharp eyes locked on the injured Yangchuanosaurus.

The second one stalked behind, its breath coming in short bursts, eyes wide with predatory hunger she was only around 4.73 metric tons (5.21 short tons) in weight and 10.73-12.53 m (35.2-41.1 ft) long a bit smaller than her companion and around 4.3 Meters tall (14.11 feet) But this would only make her faster, more agile and more keen to get into the feast.

The Yangchuanosaurus snarled, its remaining strength pushing it to face the threat head-on. It let out a furious roar, a challenge to the encroaching predators. It wasn't finished yet. But it was tiring. The blood loss was evident in its sluggish movements, the sheer weight of its injuries dragging its every step. Its claws dug into the snow, preparing for a fight, but its once-invincible demeanor had been shattered and yet it tried to intimidate both foes roaring and hissing and snarling knocking its body into a nearby tree in order to hopefully scare them off with its massive bulk but the Yutyrannus showed absolutely no fear in the slightest.

The first Yutyrannus moved with a terrifying speed, its feathers ruffling as it shot forward. Its jaws snapped open, revealing rows of vicious teeth as it lunged toward the weakened creature. The Yangchuanosaurus managed to twist its body to the side, but not fast enough. The massive predator's teeth sank into the back of its shoulder, and the Yangchuanosaurus shrieked in pain, the sound chilling against the howling wind. Snow flew from the impact, and the beast struggled to free itself, lashing out with its head and pulling back with his feet about to pull the Yutyrannus off the ground; however on que the second Yutyrannus was already there. It was faster than its companion, darting around the Yangchuanosaurus's back, its talons scraping against the frozen earth as it went in for the kill. The Yangchuanosaurus tried to swing its head and knock it away , but the second tyrant was too quick, ducking under the massive head and biting deep into the tender flesh near the creature's haunch both creature's using their claws to grip onto the creature and using their bites for crush the creature's flesh and bones

Blood sprayed out in torrents, staining the pristine snow a deep crimson. The Yangchuanosaurus roared in agony, its body trembling as it staggered under the assault. With a final, desperate cry, the massive predator swung its head wildly, its teeth grazing a Yutyrannus's tail. The first Yutyrannus yelped in pain but quickly regained its footing, slashing its legs across the Yangchuanosaurus's face, narrowly missing its eyes as the Yangchuanosaurus cried out in pain the reptile then began turned and twisting getting both of the tyrants off, as the predator tried to attack them both them simply maneuvered out of the way with one of them biting into his neck and hanging on to it ripping into the Yangchuanosaurus's flesh while the other slashed and harassed the large carnivore making sure to distract it from her partner and as one yuty would jump off and run away the other would jump on rinse and repeat for the next 35 minutes, as this was going on the snow fell heavier, now turning into a frigid blizzard that blinded the combatants. The snowflakes whipped through the air like sharp needles, stinging the wounds of both the attackers and the dying beast. The wind roared like a pack of howling wolves, adding a surreal, almost apocalyptic tone to the battle.

But the Yangchuanosaurus was faltering. It was weakening with every strike. The snow, now thick enough to reduce visibility, seemed to blur the edges of the battlefield, the predators moving in and out of the white mist like ghosts. Each strike from the Yutyrannus caused the Yangchuanosaurus to stagger further, its legs shaking under the strain. The heavy thud of its body collapsing into the snow echoed through the air as it struggled to stay upright the wounds and bruises were just too much for it to handle all at once its will to live slowly leaving it got to the point where it was simply too exhausted to even attack back, if it was at full strength these two yuty's would have been running away with fatal injuries right now, As this continued on the first Yutyrannus took advantage of the momentary weakness, sinking its teeth deep into the nape of the Yangchuanosaurus's neck completely tearing through the flesh and bones crushing them for one final time and then pushed into down to the ground with its hands. The creature letted out a final, guttural roar, the sound carrying on the wind as blood poured from the wound. The second Yutyrannus moved in quickly, delivering another lethal bite to the throat. The Yangchuanosaurus's body stiffened, and with one final, crushing roar, it cried into the snow, its body twitching as the last traces of life drained from it.

For a moment, the only sound was the howl of the wind as the two Yutyrannuses stood over the fallen predator, their breaths heavy in the cold air. They were victorious, but the storm had not yet finished its fury. The snow began to fall even heavier, thick enough to obscure the scene. The predators, their feathers now matted with blood, began to drag their kill across the icy landscape, disappearing into the growing snowstorm and once they reached a safe location they both began to dig into the flesh of the Yangchuanosaurus, As they fed, the tension that had marked the earlier battle began to dissipate. The once-ferocious predators now seemed more relaxed, the satisfaction of a hard-won meal settling over them. The Beta, its maw slick with blood, paused and lifted its head, watching Alpha gnaw on a stubborn piece of bone. With a playful chuff, Beta stepped closer and nudged Alpha with its snout, a gesture that was equal parts teasing and bold. The Alpha growled low in its throat, but the sound lacked malice. she swatted at Beta with a clawed forelimb, the motion more a warning than an attack. Beta, undeterred, let out a squawking cry and lunged playfully, snapping at Alpha's feathers.

The interaction turned into a brief, almost juvenile bout of roughhousing. Alpha dropped the piece of meat it had been chewing and lunged back, pushing Beta away from the carcass with a powerful shove of its shoulder. Beta, feigning indignation, let out a mock roar before darting to the other side of the kill, where it grabbed a hanging strip of flesh and gave it an exaggerated tug. For a few moments, the snow-covered outcrop was alive with their play. They snapped at each other's tails and dodged swipes from clawed forelimbs, their feathers ruffling and their movements surprisingly agile despite their size. Their growls and squawks echoed off the icy walls, a strange contrast to the otherwise silent storm. Eventually, The Alpha let out a sharp bark, signaling an end to the game much to the dismay of the beta, she wanted to continue the play a bit, so instead of backing down she simply made things more fun.

The moment shifted as The Beta abruptly transformed, her massive, feathered form dissolving into that of a tall, dark-coated human figure. Her features were sharp, her golden eyes retaining a predatory gleam.

Without hesitation, she crouched and scooped a handful of snow, packing it into a dense ball. With a flick of her wrist, she sent it flying, the snowball smacking into Alpha's head with an audible thud. Alpha, still in her Yutyrannus form, paused mid-chew. Slowly, her head turned, and a low rumble escaped her throat. Her massive body rippled as she shifted forms as well, feathers dissolving into pale human skin and sharp green eyes locking onto her adversary. She didn't hesitate, grabbing a handful of snow and launching it back with precision.

The exchange quickly escalated; the once-battle-hardened predators now engaged in an impromptu snowball fight. Snowballs flew through the storm, bursting into powder upon impact. Beta darted around the Yangchuanosaurus's carcass for cover, her movements light and swift. Alpha, refusing to be outmaneuvered, launched oversized projectiles with an intensity befitting her dominant presence. The outcrop became a flurry of activity. Snowballs pelted the icy ground, and laughter an uncharacteristic sound for the duo echoed through the cold air. Beta circled behind Alpha, using the storm as her ally. Her steps were muffled by the snow, allowing her to lob a perfectly aimed snowball at her rival's back. Alpha turned, wiping snow from her hair with an exaggeratedly slow motion before charging forward. She tackled Beta into a snowdrift, sending up a burst of white powder as they wrestled. Their sharp movements and mock-aggression resembled their primal forms, though now tempered by play rather than predation. After a time, they collapsed into the snow, lying side by side as the storm howled around them. Their breath was visible in the frigid air, and their surroundings had grown quieter as the snow deepened. The stillness of the scene stood in stark contrast to the ferocity of their earlier hunt, as if the storm had momentarily washed away the harshness of their existence. he carcass of the Yangchuanosaurus lay nearby, its blood staining the snow. Eventually, the pair rose, brushing off the powdery frost, and returned to their feast, the momentary reprieve of play giving way to the primal necessities of survival.

Both predators settled back down, returning to their meal with renewed focus. Alpha, ever the dominant one, claimed the prized ribs, using its jaws to crack open the thick bones and lap at the marrow inside. Beta, content with the remains of the entrails, chewed on a section of the intestines, pausing occasionally to glance at the storm swirling beyond their shelter. As the feast continued, the snow piled higher around them, its pristine white starkly juxtaposed with the dark crimson of blood. Occasionally, one of them would nibble on the other's feathers, grooming away bits of gore in a rare display of camaraderie. They worked methodically, leaving no part of the Yangchuanosaurus untouched, their instincts ensuring that the precious energy of the kill would not go to waste. When they had eaten their fill, the pair rested beside the mangled remains, their bellies full despite their still being more left to chew up and eat tho they will mostly like eat the rest later, their bodies pressed together for warmth as the storm howled around them. Their earlier ferocity had given way to an almost peaceful stillness, a temporary truce in the unforgiving world of snow and blood.

But as the wind picked up, the terrifying screech of another predator, something even larger and more terrifying, echoed across the hillside another tyrant who was uknown in the fossil record came around a corner and stared at both predators

Out of the swirling snow, a single large Tyrant emerged, its massive, muscular frame cutting through the storm like a specter. Its eyes locked onto the two Yutyrannuses, who stopped their progress, eyes widening with sudden fear. The new Tyrant, a creature built for cold, its thick, shaggy fur coated in layers of snow, slowly stalked forward, its presence unnerving and powerful. The Yutyrannuses growled in response, their instincts telling them to fight for their kill, but they were no match for the behemoth before them who glared at them with its terrifying eyes.

The Tyrant lunged, its jaws snapping shut with deadly precision. The second Yutyrannus, in an act of desperation roared loudly in terror unflagging its fluff expanding its feathering making itself look extremely terrifying and intimidating the New Tyrant got back with a bit of fear the roar of the yutyrannus having affected it with paralyzing fear so strong that it was as if a lion was being chased by a tiger and then randomly turned into a gazelle

https://youtu.be/D7Ve_F3W-Rk

using this chance the second Yutyrannus made a dash for it and the other one followed both predators disappearing from the scene completely the new tyrant then snapped out of it and returned to reality realizing that its prey had escaped, but then noticing that the both left a decent carcass behind that it will definitely be able to feast on for now the new Tyrant dug into its feast all while the the day slowly turned into night...

.....

Meanwhile back at the bunker, Tom and David sat sprawled on the worn-out couch in the recreation room, the hum of old fluorescent lights filling the silence. The room was a mix of practicality and personal touches makeshift shelves lined with dog-eared books, a dartboard with several missing darts, and a battered chessboard on the coffee table between them. David leaned back, his legs stretched out, boots resting on the edge of the table as he idly tossed a small rubber ball against the far wall. His aim was lazy, and the ball sometimes veered off to hit the floor or ricochet unpredictably, earning a quiet grunt from Tom. Tom sat more upright, elbows on his knees, flipping through an old magazine with faded pages. Every now and then, he'd chuckle softly at an outdated ad or a ridiculous headline, shaking his head.

Tom: "Top Ten Gadgets That Will Change Your Life." You think any of these actually worked back then?

David: Probably not. But hey, if they had a gadget for dodging rubber balls, you'd be golden.

Tom: Haha Real funny, Dave. Real funny.

David smirked, tossing the ball again, this time aiming closer to Tom's chair.

David: What can I say? It's a gift :)

Tom: You're going to break something one of these days, you know that?

David: Ha, Only if I'm lucky.

The light banter between them was easy, the kind of comfort that came from years of shared missions, close calls, and late-night conversations in the chaos of their world. They didn't need to fill the silence; just being there was enough.

The moment was interrupted by a sharp buzz from the overhead intercom, crackling to life.

Intercom Voice: David and Tom, report to the bunker leader's office immediately.

David let the ball drop to the floor, sitting up with a sigh.

David: .... So much for peace and quiet.

Tom: *standing and stretching* You knew it wouldn't last.

David: *grinning as he stood* Yeah, but a guy can dream.

They exchanged a glance, a mix of camaraderie and resignation, before heading out of the rec room. Whatever the leader wanted, they knew it probably wouldn't be good newsbut they'd face it together, Unfortunately, Once they got there David and Tom sat in a cramped office, the flickering fluorescent light above casting an uneven glow over the worn metal desk in front of them they were called up here after the accident and things didn't look to good for them at this moment. The room was sparse, with only a couple of battered chairs, a stack of disorganized files, and a map of the surrounding area pinned to the wall. The hum of the ventilation system filled the uneasy silence as they waited.

David: Well, this is going great.

Tom: Could be worse.

David shot him a glare.

David: Worse? How? We're lucky we're not out there as dinosaur bait right now.

Before Tom could respond, the door slammed open, and the bunker leader strode in. Her boots thudded heavily against the floor as she moved, the scar on her cheek illuminated by the harsh light. She didn't bother sitting; she loomed over them, her arms crossed and her expression thunderous. Her name was Beatray and she was the head or more-so the leader of this entire bunker. Every operation is planned by her and Every issue was solved by her, nothing more and nothing less as she looked down upon them they both gulped with a bit of fear.

Beatray: I don't even know where to start with you two.

David/Tom: (we are so cooked.)

Beatray: I truly don't

David started to speak, but she cut him off with a sharp gesture.

Beatray: Save it. Do you have any idea how much trouble you've caused?

She slapped a hand down on the desk, the sound making Tom and David flinch her expression becoming even more frustrated than before.

Beatray: We lost three soldiers and a captain, nearly all of our turret ammo, and a quarter of our fuel reserves holding that thing off so you two could play hero. And for what? A handful of long necked sauropods that were eating our entire food supply?

David clenched his fists underneath his desk, he didn't really like talking to this woman but decided to keep that to himself afterall the worse case scenario is getting kicked out of the bunker and having to fend for himself which he really hoped that he'll never have to do for the rest of his life out there in the wilderness is unforgiving and its winter time, he would turn into an icicle the moment even a gust of cold wind barely touched his body.

David: They're living beings

Tom: David-

David: I don't think killing them would have been the right choice.

Tom: Oh No...

David: We Could've just chased them away instead of killing them, i didn't intend for our crops to get eaten or for some of us to get killed which btw isn't technically even my fault

Her eyes narrowed.

Beatray: This isn't about "The right choice" or "What you could've done". It's about what you should've done. Out there, resources are everything: ammo, manpower, time. Every decision counts, and yours nearly wiped us out with your reckless beahavior

David: ....

Tom shifted uncomfortably in his seat and tried to defend his friend

Tom: Look We thought-

Beatray: That's the problem! You thought! You're soldiers, not saviors. You follow orders. You think I enjoy making these calls? Telling people to leave others behind? No. But out there, you have to be ruthless if you want to survive, and you decided to bring... HIM, along.

David: ..... So we should have just obliterated those sauropods...

Beatray: If it means the rest of us live? Yes. And until you get that through your thick skulls, you're a liability.

Tom: .... Well, at least we made it back alive, right?

Beatray: Barely. And don't think I've forgotten about the state of that bunker door. If that thing breaches, I'll personally make sure you're the first ones to meet it. Now as for one of the punishments you both will receive You are both on cleanup duty until further notice. No gear, no weapons, no patrols. Just scrubbing floors and hauling trash. Maybe a little manual labor will teach you some humility.

David: ... that doesn't sound that bad

Tom: yeah honestly this is gonna be lit, we are chefs we are used to cleaning up a few places and stu-

Beatray: Oh no... YOU ARE GOING TO CLEAN THE ENTIRE, BUNKER, ITSELF WITH NO PLACES LEFT.

Both of them:

Tom's and David's face burned with frustration, but they didn't argue. Tom opened his mouth to protest, but one look from the leader shut him up, As she turned to leave, she paused at the door.

Beatray: Now, you both can go your punishment starts tomorrow, If you wanted to be heroes you should have save it for when the rest of us aren't at risk. oh and David.

David: yeah?

Beatray: Meet me here tomorrow, i need to get some sleep so i can't talk forever. Bye, Bye.

The door slammed shut behind her, leaving the two men in silence as Tom exhaled, slumping back in his chair.

Tom: Well, that could've gone better.

David leaned forward, resting his head in his hands, extremely embarrassed and frustrated.

David: Tom, remind me to never listen to your ideas again.

Tom: Don't worry i'll never share ideas like That with you ever again.

David: You know what, i'd say that's for the best.

Tom: Man, wonder what Sarah would think about thi-

David shot him a look that could freeze fire, cutting him off mid-sentence.

David: Don't.

Tom raised his hands defensively, trying to stifle a chuckle.

Tom: Alright, alright, no more Sarah talk. But seriously, what now?

David: Guess we go home and think about my mistakes

Tom: our mistake

David: Ehh

Tom: Don't try to slip out of this i technically putted you in that situation in the first place

David: Fair..

Tom: ... Tho, why did you do that?

David: hm?

Tom: Why did you try and save those sauropods, never seen you do that before

David: ...

David's eyes narrowed slightly as Tom's question lingered in the air. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat, recalling the chaos of the military's approach, the sound of helicopters overhead, and the firepower aimed at those peaceful creatures who didn't even have a chance to defend themselves.

David: Because they were about to get slaughtered...

Tom blinked, processing the answer, his casual demeanor faltering for a moment.

Tom: But you've seen that before. You've seen them kill dinosaurs before, why was this different?

David ran a hand through his hair, frustration rising once again, his fingers digging into his scalp.

David: It wasn't just about the sauropods. It's about what happens when we- I-do nothing. These creatures... they don't deserve to be wiped out because some people think they're a threat. They were just living, just existing, like the rest of us heck they LOOK like us sometimes. Most doesn't care about that, but I...

Tom watched him quietly, his gaze softening, There was a deeper layer to David words, something more personal that Tom couldn't understand and David didn't want to explain

Tom: So... you tried to stop them... because it felt like... what, a reminder?

David swallowed hard, his chest tightening. He stared at the floor, avoiding Tom's eyes for a moment.

David: Maybe. It just... felt like we- like I -couldn't keep letting it happen. Not again.

Tom leaned back in his chair, thinking over what David said. A few seconds of silence passed before he sighed.

Tom: ... Whatever you say man, i'll be off. I need to enjoy myself before tomorrow.

David: ... Alright...

tom stood up, stretching as if the conversation had drained the last of his energy. He paused at the door, giving David one last look.

Tom: Just don't go and do something stupid tonight, okay? You've had enough of those for one day.

David didn't look up, his gaze fixed on the floor as he nodded, the weight of everything still sinking in. His voice was quiet, almost distant.

David: I'll try.

Tom gave a half-hearted chuckle and opened the door, stepping out into the hallway. The soft click of the door closing behind him echoed in the silence of the room, leaving David alone with his thoughts once again. The room felt suffocating, the shadows now stretching longer as the night deepened. David remained seated, unmoving for a long moment, his mind replaying the events of the day his decision, his mistakes, the consequences that were already beginning to unravel. A bitter taste lingered in his mouth.

David: ...

A few hours later David trudged down the hallway, his feet dragging with each step. The day had been a blur of chaos, frustration, and regret. He barely registered the sound of the door clicking shut behind him as he entered his room. The dim light from the window barely illuminated the space, casting long shadows on the walls. He walked over to the bed, stripped off his military jacket, and tossed it to the side. His hands, still trembling slightly from the tension of the day, worked the buttons of his shirt loose with unsteady fingers. He didn't bother to change fully. Instead, he collapsed onto the bed, feeling the coolness of the sheets press against his skin.

David's head sank into the pillow, and for a moment, he just lay there, eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling, trying to make sense of everything. The weight of the day's events hung over him like a storm cloud. The argument, the failed attempts at making things right, He let out a heavy sigh, closing his eyes as he buried his face in the pillow, trying to block out the nagging thoughts. But they wouldn't stop. He could still hear Sarah's voice in his head, still feel the sting of the fallout. He could feel his own guilt gnawing at him, twisting deeper with every passing second. He was a mess.

Turning onto his side, he pulled the blanket over himself but didn't feel the comfort it usually offered. His mind refused to quiet, replaying the events over and over like a bad film he couldn't stop watching. David curled up tighter, pulling his knees toward his chest, as though trying to escape the weight of his own thoughts. Sleep didn't come easy. The room felt too small, too suffocating, and yet, it was all he had left. And even then, it wasn't enough to silence the turmoil inside.

David: ..........

David got up and walked over to his couch sitting down on to it to rest up but then and then looked up and noticed multiple portraits. There David stared at the portraits for a long time, the faces frozen in time, smiling and unaware of the fate that would eventually erase their existence from this place. Each photograph, each moment captured on film, felt like a ghost haunting the room. The family a mother, father, son, and daughter stood together, all dressed in what looked like photos from years ago, their expressions warm and inviting. But it was the man in the corner of the frame that caught David's attention. The grandfather. Something about him tugged at David's memory, like a distant echo. He didn't recognize the face fully, but there was something about it that felt... too familiar. His eyes lingered on the man's expression. A mixture of pride and something else something deeper, almost regretful.

David leaned forward, studying the portrait, but his thoughts swirled. Why does he look so familiar? He reached out and ran a finger along the edge of the frame, as if hoping it would reveal something more.

David: I should know who he is...

But it didn't matter. The realization was too distant, too far beyond his reach, and every time he tried to dig deeper into the past, it seemed to slip further away. A hollow feeling settled in David's chest. These people, this family they once lived here. In this place that had become his own, this bunker that had become his refuge. And now, he had taken their place. They were gone, and he was left with their memories, their photographs, their lives suspended in time. He leaned back against the couch, letting his gaze drift over the photos, feeling the weight of their absence. This bunker had once been filled with life laughter, family, warmth. Now it felt empty. He wasn't sure what had happened to them. All he knew was that somehow, everything had changed.

And here he was, the one left behind, alone with the ghosts of those who had once lived in this place.

David: .... What happened to you all...?

The question hung in the air, unanswered. The silence around him felt suffocating, and no matter how hard he tried to convince himself that it wasn't his fault, that he wasn't responsible for what had come before him, the nagging doubt persisted. He'd taken their place, but what was he really doing here? Would he leave the same mark, or was he just another part of the story, another casualty of whatever had erased the family's past?

David closed his eyes, pressing his palms against his face as if to block out the thoughts, but they wouldn't leave.

David: ... ugh... i need to cheer myself up somehow..

His eyes scanned the room, and that's when they landed on a small shelf near the corner, stacked with old tapes and video cassettes, their labels faded with age. One in particular caught his eye. It was a plain tape, no label, nothing distinguishing it from the others. But for some reason, it felt different. Almost... inviting. He wasn't sure why, but something told him he needed to see and watch it again. David walked over to the shelf, his footsteps slow, He reached out and pulled the tape from its resting place, its plastic casing cold to the touch. He turned it over in his hands, staring at the blank label, but still... there was that nagging feeling in his gut.

David: ... Why am i addicted to this specific tape?

Without thinking too much about it, he walked over to the TV, picked up the remote, and pushed the tape into the player. The machine whirred to life, and the screen flickered as it began to load. The faint hum of the electronics filled the room, and for a moment, the silence seemed less oppressive.

https://youtu.be/VRwxgYzRTBI

A grainy, flickering blue screen crackles to life, and the cheery sound of a distorted marching band tune plays, warped slightly by the age of the tape. A stuttering black silhouette, a mix of static and shadow appears on screen, depicting an elephant-like creature with a broad, fluffy body. Beside it, a second silhouette forms: a slender, human figure, a woman standing confidently with her arms at her sides. The two figures are suddenly assaulted by a third silhouette, the sharp edges and pointed wings unmistakably belonging to a spaceship, its outline flickering in and out with the tape's tracking lines. The elephant and woman merge, their shapes blending in a soft glow that the VHS quality can barely capture. As the transformation completes, the fusion reveals a creature combining the woman's lithe frame and the elephant's mass, raising an arm and trumpeting defiantly. This new creature then launched itself at the spaceship, striking it with a single, powerful blow that sends it spiraling in a fiery explosion. The triumphant theme song swells muffled but uplifting, and fades out to a blank screen. In thick, blocky white letters, the words appear.

"Welcome, Soldier, to the Prehistoric Partner Program."

The screen flickered back, and this time it shows the interior of a sleek, high-tech lab. Scientists in long white coats move purposefully between metal tables and machines, some of which pulse with an otherworldly glow. Tubes filled with strange fluids snake between equipment, and at the center of it all, a series of vials labeled "HYBRID DNA" sit glowing in neon hues. Just then a cartoon character in the shape of a dna popped out and then began speaking in a deep, steady voice begins speaking over the scene.

Mr Dna: Hello Human, Welcome to the Prehistoric Partner Program, a revolutionary project aimed at arming humanity with a force unlike any in history!

The footage shifts to a grainy close-up of a scientist, an older woman with a streak of grey in her hair, standing beside a containment tank where a mysterious, faintly glowing shape shifts in murky liquid. Her expression is one of awe as the Dna character popped up right beside her extremely cheerful.

Mr Dna: Hello Miss!

Scientist: Oh! Why hello Mr Dna, what brings you here today?

Mr Dna: Oh nothing, i just thought I'd drop in so that you can explain what we're cooking up in here!

Scientist: Oh well, These hybrids are the result of countless hours of research, dedication, and hope for the future of humanity.

Mr Dna: Oh really, and what are they exactly?

Scientist: In our desperate struggle against these alien forces, scientists have unlocked something extraordinary. By combining human DNA with the ancient might of prehistoric creatures and, yes, a small sample of alien DNA we've created a new class of ally of our own!!!

Mr Dna: Oooooo~

Scientist: Each one is part human, part ancient beast, and part... something new. Together, they embody the resilience of life on Earth, standing ready to defend it.

Mr Dna: Well why don't you show us one of these lovely specimens Dr!

Scientist: That I shall and can do!

The video now cuts to an outdoor training facility surrounded by high walls. Standing in the center of a dirt arena is a young man in military gear, rolling his shoulders and grinning at the camera. His handler, a stern-looking older officer, nods, giving a thumbs-up. The young man takes a deep breath, spreading his arms wide as he begins his transformation.

In jerky, retro-style close-ups, the footage captures the young man's muscles expanding, his skin darkening and hardening into rough scales as his jaw extends, teeth sharpening. His face warps, shifting from human features into the elongated, fearsome snout of an Allosaurus. His human eyes, however, remain clear, holding a keen intelligence as they shift to bright yellow. A deep, rumbling growl escapes him, building to a roar that echoes across the arena, shaking dust from the walls. In his dino form, he stands nearly twice as tall, his body covered in scaly armor, with jagged scars hinting at past battles. He turns his head to his handler, who watches him calmly, nodding as if to say, Good job. The Allosaurus hybrid lets out another roar, powerful yet somehow full of pride, before shifting back. With a few flickers and strange noises, he resumes his human form, breathing heavily, his clothes surprisingly intact. He grins again and gives a casual salute to the camera.

Scientist: These hybrids possess incredible strength and the instincts of ancient giants, But they also retain their human minds, allowing them to work seamlessly with their human partners. Remember: while they may seem like powerful beasts, they are also people, just like us.

Mr Dna: Talk about a handsome fello!

A transition brings us to another training ground, this one filled with obstacles, rock formations, and training dummies. Several handlers are working with their hybrids, and the air is filled with laughter, grunts of exertion, and the sound of claws scraping against stone.

Mr Dna: Who are those people beside them, and why are they there?

Scientist: Oh, those are the hybrids handlers

Mr Dna: Handlers, Why would they need handlers?

Scientist: Well Mr Dna it is Because Bonding with these hybrids is crucial, While their forms grant them power, it's trust that grants them strength.

A handler, a young woman with short hair and a determined expression kneels beside a hybrid in its human form. The hybrid is breathing hard, struggling with the memories of a recent mission that went wrong. The woman rests a hand on his shoulder, speaking to him in low, comforting tones, and he slowly nods, regaining his composure. The scene shifts to another pair, an older handler and a Velociraptor hybrid with vibrant feathers, playfully engaged in a mock wrestling match. The two laugh, the sound genuine, as they tumble to the ground.

Scientist: These creatures need our trust as much as we need theirs. Through understanding, patience, and shared experiences, these bonds deepen and in the heat of battle, this connection can make all the difference.

Mr Dna: well, just incase the viewers want to join this program on their own, *winks at the screen* Why don't ya give them some tips and information on how we bond with these creatures!

Scientist: Sure, I can do that since i have enough time.

Top Tips for Building a Strong Partnership.

Tip #1: Respect Their Space

A woman stands at the edge of a pen, observing a Velociraptor hybrid. The creature, sleek and cautious, eyes her warily from the shadows, feathers ruffling slightly in the breeze. The woman doesn't move closer; instead, she kneels, placing her hand on the ground as a sign of patience. Minutes pass, and the hybrid finally inches forward, tentatively reaching out to sniff her hand before letting out a soft chirp. They exchange a quiet look of mutual understanding.

Scientist: Let them come to you Trust is built, not forced.

Tip #2: Provide Physical and Mental Challenges

The scene cuts to a Triceratops hybrid and his handler as they run side-by-side through a maze-like obstacle course, hurdling barriers and dodging swinging obstacles. The handler shouts encouragement, urging the hybrid on as they move in sync. They emerge from the maze, both laughing and breathing hard, the handler clapping the hybrid on the back.

Scientist: A shared challenge strengthens the bond and keeps their mind sharp, when they are ready do this to help strengthen the bond with your hybrids

Tip #3: Empathy Is Key

In a quieter scene, a hybrid in his human form sits on a crate, eyes distant and shoulders slumped after a hard mission. His handler sits beside him, offering a small, comforting smile and placing an arm around his shoulders. The hybrid hesitates, then leans into the touch, letting out a deep, steadying breath.

Scientist: These creatures feel as deeply as we do. Show them kindness, and they will protect you with their life. And when all of this comes together the results can be staggering!

Battle Training Simulation

The VHS crackles to a new scene, this time inside a simulated combat zone filled with rubble and abandoned vehicles. Hybrids and handlers are positioned strategically, their eyes scanning the horizon. Suddenly, the sharp screech of an approaching alien craft breaks the silence, and the team springs into action. One handler, a tall man with a scar over one eye, whistles sharply, and his companion, a T-Rex hybrid with massive jaws and an armored hide, charges forward with a bellow. The alien ship fires, but the T-Rex dodges, displaying surprising agility. Meanwhile, the handler crouches behind a boulder, directing his partner with quick, decisive gestures. As the T-Rex reaches the ship, the handler shouts, "Now!" The T-Rex slams its head against the ship's wing, sending sparks flying. In the chaos, the handler leaps onto the craft, attaching a detonator. The two retreat, and moments later, a fiery explosion lights up the sky. The T-Rex roars in victory, stomping a foot as the handler pats its side, grinning with shared triumph.

Program Slogan and Final Message

The screen shifts again, showing an array of images: soldiers laughing and working with their hybrids, quiet moments of connection, scenes of hard-fought battles won side-by-side.

As the final image a soldier and T-Rex hybrid facing the horizon fills the screen, the narrator's voice echoes softly. "Together, we will overcome," he says, his tone warm yet resolute.

The screen fades to black, with a soft whirring sound as the VHS tape finally reaches its end. Only static remains, flickering before the screen goes dark.

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David: ... hm....

David sat cross-legged on the cold, cement floor of the bunker, his back against the faded metal lockers that lined the room. In his lap, an old VHS tape lay in his hands, the label faded and peeling at the edges. The sound of static hummed quietly from the ancient TV set in front of him, casting a dim, flickering glow across the room. As the screen shifted to grainy footage, he found himself transfixed by the retro charm of the Prehistoric Partner Program video playing before him. The narrator's calm, assured tone filled the small room, a voice promising strength, unity, and the kind of companionship David hadn't felt in... well, in years.

David: ... Ugh...

Suddenly there was a knock on the door, one that got him to stand up from the floor and walk over to it opening up only to see Sarah there, she had an extremely worried look on her face before but quickly shook her head slightly and gave david a slight smile the man doing the same in return

David: Hey.

Sarah: Hey...

David: ... W-what are you doing here...it's like, 11: 00 pm in the night, shouldn't you be with your kids and stuff?

Sarah: Oh, they're asleep already, don't worry.

David: Oh, alright. Uhm, I would tell you to come up but my room is kinda messy right now a-and stu-

Sarah: Oh no no no. i wanted to invite.. You...out..of your...Room..and stuff..

David: ... You wanted to, invite me?

Sarah: *nods* Y-yeah why not?

David: why?

Sarah: i heard about what happened..

David: oh...

Sarah: and i wanted to, help you out on that. tom didn't tell me the full details but i think i can gather that you messed up somehow

David: pfft ofcourse

Sarah: So, are you coming?

David: uhhmm..

David scratched the back of his head, his expression wavering between confusion and a hint of bashfulness. He wasn't used to invitations, especially not from someone like Sarah.

David: Well, uh... yeah, sure. I guess I could use some fresh air or... wherever you want to go.

Sarah's smile widened slightly, her eyes softening.

Sarah: Good, because I think you've been cooped up in here long enough after well...that. And I know things haven't been easy lately... but sometimes a change of scenery can help. Even if it's just for a little while.

David hesitated for a moment, glancing back at the dim bunker. The VHS tape sat on the floor, the static from the TV still buzzing faintly in the background. He looked at Sarah again, noting the genuine concern behind her words.

David: Alright. Just let me grab my coat. It's kinda chilly out here.

Sarah: I can wait.

Sarah waited patiently by the door as David moved back into the room. He turned off the TV and scooped up the VHS tape, placing it gently on a shelf before pulling on a worn but warm jacket and grabbing perfume to spray himself with to make sure that he smelt good, then he walked over to the bathroom and began to clean brush his teeth and brush his hair just to make his looks better after he was done with that he came out to meet her.

David: Here I am.

Sarah: *chuckles* Woah slow down partner. We aren't going on a date or anything.

David: *rolls his eyes* Damn guess guys can't just look good and fresh when hanging out.

Sarah: You know for a fact that you wouldn't do this with your boyfriends

David: Naur, I would you just haven't seen it.

Sarah: *chuckles*

David: *chuckles*

Sarah: Alright, common then.

David: Uh, where are we going, exactly?

Sarah: It's a surprise.

David raised an eyebrow but followed her out into the quiet hallways. The air was cooler outside of his room, carrying with it the faint scent of snow and ice. As they walked, Sarah glanced at him out of the corner of her eye.

Sarah: You know, you don't always have to be the guy who keeps it all together. It's okay to let people in, David

David: I am literally doing that right now tho.

Sarah: No, i mean as in invite us to stuff, you barely ask or say anything about your life outside of the kitchen.

David: yeah, cause that's where i belong.

Sarah: David.

David: Right Right your a woman those words might traumatize you-

Sarah: DAVID!

David smirked but quickly raised his hands in mock surrender, stepping back a little as Sarah slapped his back a bit and then glared at him.

David: Alright, alright! Chill, I'm just messing with you.

Sarah crossed her arms, her glare softening into an exasperated look, though the corners of her mouth twitched as if fighting a smile and a loud laugh, the both of them continued walking through the empty hallways passing by a few late nighters and other areas the direction where sarah was taking him was familiar tho it hadn't come into his head yet.

Sarah: You're impossible, you know that?

David: Yeah, but that's part of my charm, right?

Sarah shook her head, muttering something under her breath before continuing down the hallway. David followed, the faint echo of their footsteps bouncing off the bunker walls.

David: So... this surprise of yours, should I be worried?

Sarah: Only if you hate having fun.

David: Oh, nooooo. Not that. You know how allergic I am to enjoyment. Oh my god i totally hate FUNNN

Sarah stopped suddenly, turning to look at him with a mix of disbelief and amusement.

Sarah: Seriously, you are the worst at taking anything seriously.

David: Not true. I take cooking seriously. And looking fresh U-U

Sarah: David-

David: Okay, okay! I get it. I'll try to... open up or whatever.

Sarah gave him a long look, her expression softening as she sighed.

Sarah: That's all I'm asking. Baby steps, okay?

David: Slow down partner i am not a milf maker alright alright don't mention baby around me-

Sarah's eyes widened at David's comment, and for a moment, she looked like she couldn't decide whether to laugh or strangle him. She settled on groaning, pinching the bridge of her nose as she shook her head.

Sarah: David, for the love of what even goes on in that head of yours?

David: Chaos. Absolute chaos.

He grinned mischievously, clearly enjoying her reaction. Sarah threw her hands up in mock exasperation before continuing down the hallway, muttering under her breath.

Sarah: Why did I even bother? You're impossible.

David jogged to catch up with her, his grin softening into something more genuine.

David: Hey, but I'm your kind of impossible, right?

Sarah glanced sideways at him, her lips twitching as though she were trying to suppress a smile.

Sarah: Unfortunately, yes.

David chuckled, shoving his hands into his jacket pockets.

David: Guess you're stuck with me, then.

Sarah: Unfortunately of my own choice, heh.

David: hehe.

As they walked further down the hallway, David noticed the air growing colder. His breath began to fog up as he glanced at Sarah, who seemed entirely unbothered by the chill.

David: Okay, either the heater's busted, or you've got a plan for this sudden arctic adventure.

Sarah: Oh, I've got a plan.

She stopped in a hallway where multiple people were also going towards an area and then turned to him with a small, teasing smile.

Sarah: Close your eyes.

David: You're not about to prank me, are you? Because if this is a bucket-of-water-over-the-door situation, I'm walking away and never letting you invite me out anywhere again.

Sarah: Just trust me, David. Close your eyes.

With a dramatic sigh, David closed his eyes, holding out his hands in front of him.

David: Alright, fine. But if I lose a finger to frostbite, you owe me hot chocolate for life.

Sarah laughed softly and took his arm, guiding him carefully through the crown making sure that he didn't crash into anyone once she reached the location tho david could hear jingle bells and christmas songs being played which started to ring a bell in his head.

David: Can i open them now?

Sarah: Okay yeah, open them.

David: Alright well let's see where you have taken m-...

David opened his eyes, and his breath hitched. The room before him was massive, its ceiling and walls painted a pale gray to mimic an overcast sky. Snow gently fell from above, seemingly generated by some unseen mechanism. It coated the ground in a soft, pristine blanket, sparkling faintly under the soft light. A few fake evergreen trees dotted the space, completing the illusion of a serene winter wonderland. This was an underground park, made to replicate the outside world with dozens of people walking around the area.

David: Whoa.....

Sarah: Thought you could use a little change of scenery. Figured you'd appreciate something like this.

David: ... This... this is insane. It's like stepping into another world. You didn't have to do all this, Sarah.

Sarah: I wanted to. You spend so much time locked up in your room or working in the kitchen. You deserve a break, David. A little piece of normalcy.

David stepped further into the room, kicking at the snow experimentally. It felt cold and powdery, just like the real thing.

David: Okay, I'm impressed. How did you even know about this place?

Sarah shrugged, her cheeks tinged faintly pink from either the cold or the effort of not laughing at his wide-eyed reaction.

Sarah: I might've pulled a few strings. It's not exactly open to everyone, but I thought you deserved something special.

David: Special, huh? You're really pulling out all the stops tonight.

Sarah: What can I say? I'm full of surprises.

David crouched down, scooping up a handful of snow and letting it sift through his fingers.

David: Man, this takes me back. Used to love messing around in the snow as a kid. Of course, back then, it usually involved pelting my siblings with snowballs.

David turned to look at her, his expression softening.

David: Thanks. Really. I didn't realize how much I needed this.

Sarah shrugged, her lips curling into a warm smile.

Sarah: That's what friends are for.

David: Friends, huh? Alright, but don't be surprised if I pelt you with a snowball in a minute.

Sarah smirked and bent down to grab her own handful of snow.

Sarah: Funny you should mention that...

Before David could react, a perfectly aimed snowball hit him square in the chest. David stood there, stunned for a second, brushing the snow off his chest as he stared at Sarah, who was laughing and already gathering more ammunition.

David: Oh, you're gonna regret that.

Sarah: Only if you can catch me first!

David: You know I'm a chef, right? Precision's kinda my thing.

Sarah: Yeah? Let's see you slice and dice your way out of this!

She lobbed another snowball, which David narrowly dodged, the snow splattering harmlessly against the tree behind him. He retaliated with a perfect shot that grazed her shoulder as she ducked behind another tree.

David: First hit! I call that a win.

Sarah: Beginner's luck. Try hitting a moving target!

With that, she darted behind one of the fake evergreens, peeking out with a mischievous grin as she packed another snowball. David shook his head, smirking, He scooped up a mound of snow, and soon the room was filled with laughter, snow flying back and forth as the two of them let their guards down in the simulated winter wonderland. The two of them danced around the space, laughter echoing as snowballs flew back and forth. Nearby, a few other people paused to watch the impromptu snowball fight, smiling at the infectious energy. For a moment, the weight of their responsibilities and the harsh realities of their world melted away, leaving only the simple joy of the moment.

Finally, after a particularly well-aimed throw hit Sarah's scarf and sent her stumbling into a pile of snow, she held up her hands in mock surrender.

Sarah: Alright, alright! Truce! Truce!

David stood over her, grinning and catching his breath.

David: Say it. Say I'm the snowball champion.

Sarah: Never.

David: Fine. More snow it is.

He bent down to gather another handful, but before he could finish, Sarah tackled him, sending them both tumbling into the snow. They landed in a heap, laughing uncontrollably.

Sarah: Okay, okay! You're the snowball champion. Happy now?

David, still laughing, nodded.

David: Very.

They lay there for a moment, staring up at the simulated gray sky as the snow continued to fall gently around them.

Sarah: You know, this place really is something. Almost makes you forget where we really are.

David: Yeah. Almost.

A comfortable silence settled between them, broken only by the sound of distant laughter and the soft crunch of other footsteps in the snow. For once, the world felt a little less heavy. David lay back in the snow, his arms stretched out as if he were making a snow angel, though the effort looked more lazy than intentional. He stared up at the simulated gray sky, his breath forming tiny clouds in the chill air as Sarah joined him aswell the both of them making and combined snow angel.

David: ..... You know, this reminds me of those old stories my grandma used to tell about Christmas.

Sarah shifted to lie beside him, propping herself up on one elbow.

Sarah: Christmas? Like the holiday with the trees and presents and all that?

David: Yeah, that one. Back before... well, before everything got so screwed up even before she was born into the world and even before her great grandmother was born in the world. It was a big deal. People used to decorate their houses, string up lights everywhere, and make a whole production out of it.

Sarah: Sounds nice.

David: It was. Or at least it seemed like it from what she told me. There'd be big family dinners, carolers going door to door singing their hearts out, and kids losing their minds over what they might find under the tree.

Sarah smiled faintly, brushing a bit of snow off her jacket.

Sarah: My mom used to tell me about it too. She said there was this magic to it, you know? Like, for just one day, everyone tried to be kinder, happier, more... human and jolly.

David chuckled, the sound soft and almost wistful.

David: Crazy how something so simple could mean so much. A tree, some lights, a couple of songs it brought people together.

Sarah: hm... did you hear about them believing in someguy named "Santa Claus" Aswell?

David laughed, a warm sound that seemed to chase away some of the cold around them.

David: Oh, yeah. My grandma used to tell me about him too. Big guy, red suit, white beard, flew around in a sleigh pulled by reindeer, right?

Sarah grinned, her breath forming small clouds as she lay beside him.

Sarah: Sounds like a kaiju when you put it that way.

David: Imagine that "Santa Claus: The Red Titan." Instead of stomping cities, he drops off presents and eats cookies.

Sarah: Hehehe, And don't forget the milk. It's like his energy drink or something.

David: Do you think he'd survive in this world? I mean, with how things are now, a guy like him might just get mistaken for a threat and shot down.

Sarah's grin faltered for a moment, replaced by something more thoughtful.

Sarah: Maybe. But I'd like to think he'd still try, you know? Someone like that, bringing joy, hope it'd be worth the risk.

David fell silent for a moment, his gaze fixed on the gray sky above them.

David: ... Guess that's what those stories were really about, huh? Hope. Even when everything seems so messed up, there's still room for something good.

Sarah: yeah...

David: Mhm...

Sarah: Do you think we'll ever have something like that again?

David turned his head to look at her, his expression thoughtful.

David: Hard to say. I mean, the world's a mess now, and we've got bigger things to worry about than decorating a tree. But maybe... someday.

Sarah: You think?

David: Yeah. I mean, if we can create something like this an entire room that feels like winter then maybe we can bring back the rest of it too.

Sarah: I'd like that.

David: Me too. Especially with you.

Sarah smiled, her cheeks flushed, either from the cold or something else entirely.

Sarah: ... You know Maybe we need someone like that now more than ever, someone who is joyful and cheery and...i don't know just makes things seem better than they really are...

David: .... someone who can remind us that there's still good out there. That even when everything feels broken, there's still a reason to believe in something better......

Sarah: Like a beacon.

David: *chuckling lightly* A jolly, cookie-eating, sleigh-riding beacon of hope.

They both laughed quietly, the sound blending with the faint crunch of distant footsteps and the artificial wind whistling through the simulated winter landscape.

Sarah: You know, maybe it doesn't have to be just one person. Maybe we could all be a little more like that. Not just hoping for someone else to fix everything but doing our part to make things a little brighter for the people around us.

David turned his head to look at her again, his expression warm and touched by her words.

David: That's... yeah. I like that. Maybe it starts small like this. Just lying here, talking, remembering what it felt like to be human.

Sarah: If this is what being human feels like, I don't want to lose it again.

David: Heh. well i guess i don't want to lose you then.

Sarah's cheeks turned a deeper shade of pink, and she glanced away, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

Sarah: Well, that's good... because I don't want to lose you either.

David propped himself up on one elbow, his expression somewhere between a playful smirk and genuine warmth.

David: ... Me neither.

Sarah: heh...thank you..

David: .... You know, if this whole surviving in this world thing doesn't pan out, i just want to say that lying in fake snow, talking about old myths, and making terrible snow angels, was...the best thing you have done for me so far.

Sarah laughed softly, the sound warm and genuine.

Sarah: I wouldn't trade it for anything.

David: ... I agree.

Sarah: .... David

David: yeah?

Sarah: ....

David: .....

Sarah: ... N-nothing... Nevermind..... you wanna stay here for a while and then get hot chocolate at my place later?

David: ... Alright... and.. sure

As they both looked up at the simulated sky Their combined snow angels lay beneath them, an imperfect but meaningful symbol of the connection they'd found in an otherwise fractured world.