Believe

In the downtown depths of the Heart of Jenzaya District, a common family bustled with joy in their home.

"I'm proud of you son." The man wrapped an arm over his son's shoulder. "To see that you've reached such phenomenal height… it makes me emotional." He began to tear up.

"Thank you father. But don't forget that Axel was recruited too," he pointed at his little brother.

"But of course!" He wiped his tears. "I'm proud of you both. It's such an honor to see my own two sons be chosen for such a prestigious team by the Cardinal Nexus themselves! What was it called again?"

"Squad Zero," Axel spoke up.

"Ah yes yes… It's about time those hooligan Sins be laid out onto a table. They've caused countless incidents, haven't they?"

"That's up to us to find out," the elder son spoke. "Father, I wish you well while we're away on our missions. Please do not panic. Believe in us."

"But of course my dear Jasper! I've always believed in your military career since the very beginning!"

"And Axel's…"

"Yes, yes and Axel's of course. As the leader of your 'Squad Zero', please look well after Axel. He's only a second year recruit after all. Very young..."

Jasper smiled. "Even if he's just a second year recruit, there's a reason he was chosen for Squad Zero. He's been outstanding with his performances in his first two years alone. Don't sleep on him."

The statement made Axel smile. He flushed with slight embarrassment. "I won't fail you two! I might be the youngest guy in this family but just like Jasper said; don't sleep on me!" He laughed.

Nearby, the mother listened in closely, shaking at her fingertips. "How could he be so excited about his sons walking to their deaths?" She sobbed silently. "The Sins are dangerous aren't they? I wouldn't want anything to happen to them…"

"We'll be fine." A face appeared before her. She gasped with shock.

"Mom, just like Jasper said—believe in us. We'll be fine." Axel took his mom's tender hand.

"B-But what if something bad happens to you two—"

"We'll be okay mom. It's important that we do this. Plus, Jasper's been elected to be head of the squad. He's the perfect leader for such a job. Isn't he?"

"Yes…"

"And It's been a year since the Sins frightened our community. Someone's gotta do something about them, and fortunately or unfortunately, that's going to be us."

"But—!" Axel clutched his mom's hand tightly.

"Believe in us. I won't let you and dad, or the Cardinal Nexus down. I promise."

His mom dropped her head, sighing. "Okay…"