"But I can't move from this spot or turn my back on it. If you're planning to set up an ambush, now's the time. Just don't take too long."
Miebaka studied him, then gave a sharp nod.
"Got it."
They fell back, leaving Timothy alone.
Just then, a system message popped up:
[Silverback Termite (Gray) has begun evolution]
[Companion will be stationary while evolving]
[Evolution may take some time]
Timothy stared at the notification with a small smile.
Not bad timing.
As if in sync with the moment, the cocoon began wrapping around Gray, shielding him while the process took place.
Five minutes later, a signal came from the others.
They were ready.
Timothy didn't know the strategy.
He didn't need to.
He had finally figured out his role on the team, the one he had struggled to define until now.
He was the tank.
Drawing in a deep breath, he summoned his system panel.
...
[Status]
Name: Timothy Walter [Evolution Unavailable]
