[With another sigh, Phoenix lapses into silence and awaits the final countdown, his heart like a jackhammer in his chest. Despite his assurance of their failure, the possibility that the connection may succeed is an ever worrying itch in the back of his mind. The last thing he wants is another Gavin in his head.
Don't go there again, Phoenix.
He squeezes his eyes shut, attempting to banish the thought. With hundreds of thousands of lives at stake, anything less than his best effort is incredibly selfish -- but trying not to think is like asking a heart not to beat. From his looks to his arrogance, the younger Gavin's resemblance to his brother is uncanny, and Phoenix can't help but wonder, not for the first time, how similar their minds are. Would he be opening himself up to the same, subtle manipulation? Surely not, now that he knows what to look for, but...]
3... 2... 1...
[...but it's one thing to think that and another to believe it. As the count finishes, he holds his breath. He knows this time will end like all the others, once again thanks to his own, unfounded resentment and--]
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Don't go there again, Phoenix.
He squeezes his eyes shut, attempting to banish the thought. With hundreds of thousands of lives at stake, anything less than his best effort is incredibly selfish -- but trying not to think is like asking a heart not to beat. From his looks to his arrogance, the younger Gavin's resemblance to his brother is uncanny, and Phoenix can't help but wonder, not for the first time, how similar their minds are. Would he be opening himself up to the same, subtle manipulation? Surely not, now that he knows what to look for, but...]
3... 2... 1...
[...but it's one thing to think that and another to believe it. As the count finishes, he holds his breath. He knows this time will end like all the others, once again thanks to his own, unfounded resentment and--]
Neural handshake initiated. Pilot-to-pilot connection engaged.
[His eyes fly open.] --Huh!?