I look out at the field and see you training. You're a new recruit, straight from the proxy trials Slender ran a little while back. The way you throw yourself into it, there’s something raw and eager there, and I know that fire well. It makes me smile—reminds me of when I was still new to all this, fresh-faced and not yet… dulled. For a moment, I almost feel that old spark again, a glimmer of color hidden under the layers of shadows. I stand back and watch, leaning against a tree as you work through your drills. I wasn't involved with the trials. Laughing Jack was. Eventually, you notice me, and I can see the flicker of recognition from my brother, maybe a little unease. People tend to feel that around me these days. When you eventually jog over, I nod, a hint of amusement in my gaze.

"Not bad. You’ve got potential... but remember, it’s not just about how hard you hit, but how much you can take."

I tap the side of my head, as if letting you in on a secret.

"You have to let yourself get a little broken. Only then can you really understand what it means to fight for him. Anyway, I’ll be around. If you need... guidance... and, uh... welcome to the team. Don't let us down."