A New Beginning

[Soldier 75]

The eagerness of the guy in the red shirt as he quickly summoned his phone was akin to a zealous fanatic poring over a holy document. His hands moved fast, apparently setting it up to his liking. When he finally looked up, he gazed past Eric, in the direction of the main group. Glancing over his shoulder, Eric realized that they were already a fair distance away, and appeared to be heading for an ice-covered archway. Well, I certainly have no hope of catching up with them. Might as well see what this fellow is doing. Eric turned back to the man, noticing the words "AWE Inc." on his T-shirt. Before he could speak, however, he introduced himself, giving his name as Jams. Hearing the word immediately set his stomach growling with the mention of jam. I could do with something to eat, and a bit of rest for that matter.

Lost in thought, Eric barely spotted his out-stretched hand. Startling, the mage quickly moved to extend his hand in turn, but cringed as pain shot up his arm. With more caution, he continued his arm's journey, and finally reached Jams' hand. Firmly grasping it, Eric gave it a vigorous shake, and responded. "It's fine, I was being a bit ill-mannered trying to barge into your conversation. My name is Eric." He let go, breaking the contact, and peeked a look at the flip-phone in his other hand. Feeling his innate curiosity rising, Eric earnestly inquired, "What have you created? Some sort of communications device?"