The year ended on a bad note. Zero thinks I'm stressed. I don't want him to worry, I can handle it. Even going to the New Years festival in Reality Vanish with Zero and Axl really wasn't enough to get rid of the bitter taste.

( It was just one thing after another. )

X PINpointed directly back to MHHQ very shortly after his talk with Harpuia. He arrived on the snow-dusted roof of the complex, not far from one of the access stairwells. For several long moments he just stood where he'd arrived, looking out at the snow-covered landscape beyond the roof retaining wall.

( Although the day had started out well enough, X's mood had quickly gone sour after meeting Isoc in the park. )