"It really was surreal."
"Wasn't it? You just killed their people, and next you have to turn around and protect them. So, yes, this world's eternal theme is absurdity."
"Fortunately, although a lot of people were injured on this mission, nobody died. In terms of returns, we still made quite a profit."
"What, would you have other ideas if someone had died?"
"Yes."
"That way of thinking is still a little extreme. You need to plan things out, not act on impulse. Be rational."
"I'm surprised you're the one advising me not to be extreme."
All along, the person who acted most radically, most extremely, and most impulsively had been you.
Neo shook his head. "It doesn't matter for me anymore. Sometimes it isn't that I feel life lacks a little fun and excitement, but that without them, I feel I can't go on living.
"But you're different. The path you're on now is good, and your future will be even better. Your development is destined to take you to another level. It would be such a pity to throw that away."
Kallen heard the concern in Neo's words. Although this squadron leader was somewhat unreliable now, there was no denying that he had treated Kallen exceptionally well.
"I understand."
"All right, I know you haven't actually taken any of that in, but it doesn't matter." Neo took a little bottle from his pocket, tipped out two red capsules, and tossed them into his mouth.
Kallen sniffed and asked, "Nervous system stimulants?"
"Yes. Sometimes I can't muster any energy, so I rely on these to get me through."
"Taking too many is bad for your health."
"Were you also going to tell me they're addictive? Don't worry. I can't guarantee there aren't drugs that could get me addicted, but I