The "Pro" Saves the Day (Sort Of)

The roar of the Van of Pain vibrated through the very soles of Mark's worn boots. Serina, trapped within its menacing metal embrace, was a small, terrified figure against the grim backdrop of General Stokes' latest contraption. Anna, her face a mask of fierce determination, had already scrambled towards the colossal pogodozer, her intent clear: to use its immense power to shatter the Van of Pain and rescue their sister.

But Mark, his jaw set in a familiar, stubborn line, was faster. He shoved past Anna with a force that sent her stumbling. "Get back," he barked, his voice tight with an urgency that bordered on panic. "I'm a pro. I'll handle this."

Anna’s eyes widened in disbelief, then narrowed with a simmering frustration. “Mark, no! We do this together! That’s how we always—”