"Alec-kun, eh?" Rin said, managing at least a tiny smile. It faltered quickly, though as he looked in to the distance. Something was there, too far away for him to see much more than a faint dot against the white wastelands.

He was exhausted. His limbs were getting heavy again. He couldn't even muster enough strength for his flames for warmth. The closer they got to the structure Ratchet indicated the more Rin had to force himself to continue moving.

"Are your parents here?" he asked after a few minutes, trying to keep up conversation. They had to be close, right... ?