His heart was racing. He propelled himself into an elf sporting red armor. The elf's head crashed into an exposed pipe, knocking him unconscious. Jak looted the

pockets

of the fallen, stealing a small green eco caplet. After surveying his damage, he continued on his journey through the structured metal and platforms. At the bottom of a

steep ramp, he found an overflow room, water spilling from a broken pipe. Jak waded through the water. It had been ages since he had last felt the cool on his skin. He

hadn't been fed in three days, and thirst was on his mind. He noted the standing water, knowing it was unhealthy to drink. He cupped his hands and tasted the acidic

water, immediately spitting it back out. After a moment, he continued onto the platform.

He could see it. Jak had only seen sunlight once during his imprisonment. Now, the warm light poured through an open window. It flowed in an arc, playing with

shadows on crates. Jak scaled the wall and stood in the warmth. He saw himself now as a dirty prisoner. Dirt and sweat soiled his body, oils teased his hair. He was

disgusting and he knew it. He held a hand in the light. Pale skin was stretched over thin bones. His captivity had bleached his once-bronze skin. The eco treatments had

left him malnourished and lean. Muscles strained under his skin; little body fat was present. His muscles ached and it hurt him to breathe.

Jak shielded his eyes from the sun. He was here. After two years, this was the end. He couldn't believe how easy his escape had been. The open window ushered in

the sounds and smells of the city. He heard so many zoomers, elves, and guards. He smelled the scourge in the air, pollution. He glanced at his friend, who nodded. With

a deep breath, he dove into his freedom.