I was set beside a wall. It took all of my will not to pass out immediately. I gave myself a minute to breathe and relax. I caught a glimpse of my legs. They were thankfully still in one piece, but several parts of my skin were charred. I put great care into the potion Juke fed me, so my wounds would heal just fine. I thanked my past self for making it pain-numbing as well.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvwjpTdYAA5
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Though my legs were fine, too much of them were exposed to the outside world. To put it bluntly, I needed a new pair of pants. I would've ordinarily been embarrassed, but I had bigger fish to fry.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLVQWUJ7gOE
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtrO5nZXfvI
Juke took a seat beside me while panting, taking his helmet off, and wiping the sweat off his brow.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8xKXOvu0Ea
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMVd34gBkQ2
"I ain't ever ran that fast before shit."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8MU1A0AyjL
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4gb8wEWxE
We took a minute to get ourselves situated. I looked up at the sky, taking deep breaths.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQEUlscrnVk
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9xiT69f3zZ
"I wish... I packed an energy potion."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWIjIGgYS0Y
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA6zqeQ1PlJ
"Ya know how to make one?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ09oDldjKhi
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8JnVcN7eXr
"...No, I'm just thinking of coffee."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj6lzj7oaj3
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGNDc8UCJhs
He clicked his tongue in disappointment. I made a mental note to check if things such as energy potions truly existed later.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDZfl4eLtRz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFptO4rFtvn
"Are you two feeling well? I'm assuming a fight broke out."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIUQQpDbNe
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFYibfXYos
The man I recognized but forgot the name of walked up to us with an impassive face, making me wonder if he asked how we were only for formalities.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiUgkgbNfL2
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfi3hDslhOh
"We're doin' fine. Thanks for helpin' us."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHwEbjdFgBz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbT8a7VK1pO
"Sure thing," Pars interjected with a gentle smile.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA1riOqjWQz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnE8UsMl3PH
"So, Kenny, right? care to explain what happened?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Av0fDbdPQ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHYZXBb6NoJ
Pars took a seat on the pavement, and the man beside him followed.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZDHSlrvzGC
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMxB7pRdWwt
"Uh... well-"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKUQX669tuq
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs2w9RMmQX5
"Before all that, how about ya two introduce yerselves? It's obvious Kenny met ya, but I hate to be left in the dark."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhBQKexfctc
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Th4Zqd8aB
"Ah, of course!"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhmFPNGkYm
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Pars rubbed the back of his head.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9trJMEMiqs
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWzeiz5YtHd
"The name's Pars. This grumpy fellow is Dave. Nice to meet you, uh,"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3miVn01ao5
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwjihSgwFxZ
"Juke."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWU7C8DGMQy
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefEcn39rGX
I weakly snapped my fingers, almost admonishing myself for forgetting a name like Dave.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxbB89Gxj4c
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZInsCkMsY
"Juke. That's an odd name. Where do you come from?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP80qRwzwcT
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ14JQKss6G7
"That ain't important right now. Since Kenny looks like he's gonna drop dead any minute, I'll do all the explaining."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpLIRS9aoOO
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6yhgPTEvG
Juke gave me a sidelong wink. I gave him a fragile thumbs-up, whispering a thanks.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeh6dE2FCWp
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxxRFAdL8KH
"To make a long story short, we were tryin' to escape the city. Found out that these Hard-Bringer bastards really want our heads in particular, so much so that the Harbinger lady camped the stables and attacked us. That's who we were runnin' from."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbtzHvvaLe
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFhiQjjQqB7
"You fought directly with the Harbinger? You two are pretty impressive," Pars replied.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtoEppFhhkx
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡELCvcmTjok
"Nah, ya should've seen it. We were getting tossed around like she was playing ball. Seriously, just look at Kenny."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6z1EMaQ0Rk
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT4NjEqiKyU
They all diverted their gazes to me. I felt more inclined to correct Juke than to get embarrassed.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQGfuLM4GQa
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡANfKoM1kC4
"I did this to myself, though."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGrF7tvRdlc
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mF6kE5Lge
"I ain't sweating the details here, kid."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoU0zT93kWv
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ859kHLKsxE
"You're just lying to them, though."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTp4tASyhy8
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvYXjVNJaAC
He simply shrugged. I realized that I was just sweating details. It didn't matter why, the point was that I became injured because of the fight.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWkraQRBbx
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc1arKQNvhd
"What Juke's saying is right, though. We weren't on the brink of death or anything, but we weren't making her feel threatened, let's just say."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ87ysTOCXQ6
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4iUTUut1ll
"I gotcha," Pars replied. He seemed to be mulling over something Juke had said. I used the window of downtime to close my eyes and lean my head against the wall.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUCECZSSDP
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZRT39ecN72
"Why were you two targeted in particular?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2l9W0XVXfH
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAf2KP9vmd
Dave spoke up. My rest was short-lived, but I wasn't particularly miffed about it.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNnmYTxRv6
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTq7K5jzf6O
"From what that mop-haired guy from earlier was sayin'," Juke started, "It's probably because of the mission we're on. They ain't cottoning to our mission, which I can't disclose for legal reasons, but jokes on 'em, we already did it!"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMRTfamv42
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdf4AzP3LLm
"Your mission," Pars asked, "Wait, you were also tasked with delivering the letter?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0OLqlsssTp
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQhAHzSO7ne
The silence that ensued was awkward and oppressive.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj4Ow86QsOJ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH01XoFH5LI
"Kenny, who the hell is this guy?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKP2VLKu7T
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPW2rhzS6Mg
"O-Oh, well, he's one of the people who helped Rover and me deliver the letter."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZcLvefVEPG
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQNhiZPjn8P
"Ah, I thought he was some bad news. Well, even if ya were, yer helping us is enough to let it slide."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWjiXCy2G4
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59qGlLdAcF
"I'm flattered."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpjaMFvhNNd
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH22xI0tE4T
"Nah, but ya really gave me a scare, goodness."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMMdYjXXEr
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWdxYs2lHWz
Juke grabbed his chest and took an elongated, heavy breath, continuing the conversation once he assuaged himself.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡymkqoSWZIp
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXNIlCuFzvI
"Well, like I said, the mission's already over. Ya think if I tell the Hard-Bringer folk that they'll give us a slap on the wrist?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XPWAdGiq0
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ0kvn580GH
"..."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcm9iyS89hP
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBNPzI85gNT
Pars didn't respond to Juke's playful inquiry. Dave had an even graver expression than before. Their faces were solemn in a way that radiated pity, and it was only exacerbated by Pars' pinching of his nose and subsequent sighing.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVU9nVaBAOQ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUnc47nE7N3
"Just to make sure, your guys' mission was to deliver the letter, right? The letter in question had to be delivered to the Pillar of Foreign Communications?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnC5rMSkpA8
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjzXEEeegai
"...I don't like where this is goin'."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUg6bcBK6Bi
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jiZLqpFlV
Juke voiced my thoughts exactly. I nodded along to his questioning, which Pars took as a cue to continue.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAdtJrOQSHV
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJ73uRiLzi
"You're right not to like it, because I'm about to drop the worst news you've heard all week: all of the Pillars have been subjugated by Hard-Bringer."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvxKZlpXzYd
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvs9fWLGr0f
"...The hell does that mean?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1VjdK4vALK
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDv91bBFevC
"That means that the letter that Kenny and Rover delivered hasn't been, and most likely, won't be sent out."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡonefEJn4BE
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTnHjlKVezT
Pars articulated himself with a constant emphasis. Every word dropped heavily, and their meaning struck harsher with his heavy voice. My eyes widened. A cavity formed in my gut. I wanted him to repeat himself, only to be sure that I heard what he said, but the thought of it being reaffirmed was too frightening for me to try.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDodiDVaIy2
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"Ya gotta be kidding me, man."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCzCZID7SnJ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ832EFFys8F
"I'm sorry, but I'm not."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhWNBRDOjTS
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRjYN9YWSXf
"Haaaa... shit."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMN1eguBki
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyiuiwd6Civ
Juke leaned back against the wall and stared at the sky. All things considered, he was taking it pretty well. I thought it was ridiculous. I couldn't see inside him, sure, but I was astonished by how all that was invoked from his was a simple sigh. My feelings turned mixed.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx8ajvJGNsb
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnnvFe7cTUI
"What does that mean for us," I asked.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBIldSjYpsu
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Yzpb4aZBy
"Considering how you two were being attacked for just embarking on the mission," " Dave responded, "they'd likely destroy it once they find it."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ntWGRKWIm
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHThL2nyuZ4
"So we're working against the clock is what yer saying?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7O8l0wlAGo
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPN5xtO45IT
I was bemused by Juke's wording, but outright shocked when I saw him stand up and stretch his hands.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzfJYfp5nUo
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8yCaGYlOoH
"I think I get the gist of it," he said, "If we wanna see the mission through, then we gotta kick these Hard-Bringer bastards out, yeah?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1bHdviKaqB
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUfC1NYRmkU
"I guess so," Pars replied, "Does that mean what I think it means?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPziul0DS2
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIDNwehNqDA
"Yer gonna have to do some more explainin' of course, but if yer already forming a group to counterattack, I'm all in."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkUy1Tajhsq
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7oWtLV5Op
"W-Wait," I said, "Hold on, give me a moment to think about this"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHaaGA9Q8rw
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcbrtnGRgBE
I put my head in my hands. The state of affairs moved too fast for my fatigued body and mind. I was certain that, if I just came out of a good rest, I'd be able to think more clearly, but I didn't, so I couldn't, and it frustrated me, it frustrated me endlessly. Then there was the idea of doing this– for some reason, I sat on the fence. I couldn't say yes to the proposal, but I wanted to accept, yet I couldn't make a declaration.
"Are ya alright, kid?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDdER918Qzy
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTmuQY5U2G
Juke's sudden question dragged me out of my thoughts.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavYhc7pQcO
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQheZl6rlu
"I... I'm having doubts. My mind is foggy, I think I need to sleep."
"I getcha, but what are ya having doubts over?"
I looked at him as if he just asked an incredibly stupid question.
"Don't give me that look. This is yer job, ain't it? Why are ya doubting yerself?"
"My job?"
Juke provided me with an interesting perspective. It was pragmatic and disciplined. It caught me off guard, and it certainly wasn't something I expected to come out of his mouth.
But, as I thought about it–
"You say it's my job, but isn't this well over our pay grade?"
"Hell yeah, it is. Seriously, what's a weak guy like me doing, being contractually obligated to fight Hard-Bringer, eh?"
He took a few steps forward, pulling his sword out of his scabbard and placing it on his shoulder. He turned around and looked me in the eye.
"I think it's a perfect excuse to check up on Dennis."
He offered me a hand.
"..."
His declaration made me smile. It dispelled all my doubt instantly. I chastised myself for even thinking that way, even with my haziness. When I thought about it that way, it was the perfect excuse to amend that dreadful feeling I gained last night, all that guilt and shame, even if it would continue to creep at the back of my mind.
So, I reached for his hand and–
"I can't even lift my limbs anymore, Juke. You're going to have to carry me."
My arm dropped a second later; his did too.
"I think ya should go to sleep."
"Out here on the street? That's impossible."
"Fair 'nough.'
"Lucky for you guys," Pars interjected, "Dave and I set up a bit of a haven nearby. That should be the perfect place to rest, surely."
"Don't speak with such uncertain language, Pars. The haven is safe, that's why we call it a haven."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMmnhIfTFJ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg426fK7cIL
Pars leaned in and placed the side of his palm against the side of his lips as if he were whispering to us.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMUAnwktvF
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqFIyzE2xPj
"It's just Dave's shop. It's a pretty crummy place, believe it or not."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZGVaL364hx
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7bO6PtByMu
Dave stood up, brushing dirt off his pants and adjusting the collars on his sleeves.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnr7mpoS1Wz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQQERnVw58
"I'll make sure to blacklist you once this is over."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDSO2IcXc4H
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQGlANs1Mce
Pars stood up himself, rotating his shoulder to stretch it.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeJ6Zj5FzO
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHngMTxye4N
"Come on, I'm just joking around."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdCsRDPiFEq
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfC5WD8ds0
"I'm not. You're annoying, I don't want you near it."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyG3lctFkDu
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1WgmK89gK3
"...You gotta work on your jokes, Dave."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsIO9KY8gp
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4CwQayVzDu
Dave didn't respond to Pars. He turned his gaze to us and lightly bowed.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIBS2xr8SU
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ogs9RzaC0
"Once you two are ready, please follow me. Pars, make yourself useful and watch out for any incoming Bringers."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8hsu8oHF8X
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTLkOh97byq
Dave stepped away and leaned against the wall, crossing his arms and tapping with his finger. Pars gazed at him incredulously. Upon realizing Dave was entirely serious, he walked in the opposite direction, surveying the streets at the alleyway's entrance.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlysPhKIiFn
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvV4bGro3L
"...Bringers? Is that what they call them?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzrUqdMjOU0
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8SQH4WOqZ
"Ya good to go, kid?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAkGyzKnSbq
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWc8EYEOj0k
My attention returned to Juke. I nodded at his inquiry, but the previous problem persisted.
"How are we going to go about that? Even if I had a cane, I don't think I can stand."
"I'll just carry ya like before."
That statement sent a quick shiver down my spine.
"Don't carry me like before, please. I'd much rather ride on your shoulders."
"On my shoulders? The hell are ya, some kind of kid?"
"..."
"Ah, shit, forget I said that."
I was struck by a frothing curiosity. How was it that he constantly forgot my age? I realized in seconds that it wasn't just him; seemingly, everyone even a tinge older than me constantly forgets it.
I didn't make mention of my question, though. Juke crouched down and slapped his shoulders. I practically crawled to him, and climbing his body so I could get in a good position made me feel like a bug. Fortunately, Juke made no comment about it and simply grabbed me under my thighs and lifted me. I wrapped my hands around his neck.
"We're good to go, haven-guy."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhejB6cz1xu
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQOe4kC7ddy
"My name is Dave."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBNqG6LuC2
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQU2b3zDFPe
"Dave, my fault."
"Right. Follow me, then."
He waved his hand, gesturing us to pursue him. He walked to the end of the alleyway, stopping just short of reaching Pars.
"How does it look," he asked.
Pars winced a little and spun his head to look at us. He drew a quick breath and nodded his head.
"The coast looks clear to me, but we should be on guard. The Bringer who chased our guests is either hiding or calling for reinforcements."
Dave gave a stern nod at his statement before stepping forth and spearheading our group. He stepped into the street, looked both ways and waved his hand, motioning to follow us. Juke and Pars broke into a sprint, trailing Dave as he zigzagged between branching paths and alleyways. Uncomfortable as it was, we traveled quickly. I envied the lengthy legs of the adults.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQu5olMkWDm
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7KlffdjO5J
But just as quickly as their legs moved, they were forced to skid to a stop. Dave started the chain, quickly pushing his back against the wall as he neared the end of the alleyway. Startled, Pars followed suit, and Juke awkwardly stood around, unsure of what to do with me on his back. He crept as close as he could to the wall without squishing me, which I whispered a thanks for.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXmqKND3z3h
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfv5Q6AASXD
We were all against the wall now, but that begged a crucial question to be asked, and Pars was the one to do it.
"What'd we stop for?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYV5ynANca
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKKDtEv3Rz0
Dave had his head pointed at the nearby street. I saw his eyes narrow from the side.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2UqnrjPe8
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfplU5UAIL
"My shop is just around the corner, but Bringers are guarding it."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DIIO09E4W
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA01bjxi43Z
Immediately, the air around us stiffened. Pars' expression contorted to one showing unease, and even Dave's stoic mein dawned a blanket of sweat.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL2QmOena6z
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmH6oDuv9S
Pars cracked his neck and knuckles, reaching into his coat and withdrawing a knife so large I had to do a double-take.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkD6SNwkEIG
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTAhTpzyVxJ
"How many are there?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNgfUMJILiE
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDlZgw42QYo
"Only three. You should be able to handle them, right?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHqBWzvkU5r
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqbuI0IAXC
"Depends; are they just lackeys?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwbShxavGL3
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqb1aOx8llM
"...Come and judge for yourself."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3mNakDl3b
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQX0hlq1ysc
Pars crept beside Dave, peering over the corner. He looked for a few seconds before retracting his gaze and cracking his knuckles.
"Don't harm them conspicuously. If others find bleeding bodies by my shop, it will probably be sieged."
"I gotcha. Those oblivious morons won't know what hit him."
He stuck his knife back into his coat and began mana expulsion, forming two skull-sized rocks before his palms. He stepped away from the wall and crouched down, aiming his arms at the sky. Then, with a faint gust of wind, the boulders flew into the air. They soared dozens of feet, but their launch angle was steep. As I watched the rocks plummet to the ground, I furrowed my brows, wondering what Pars' strategy
As they went past the building, I lost sight of them, but the sturdy crash and subsequent twin thuds showed me what happened. And, to the event that just occurred, I only had one question. Dave was kind enough to ask for me.
"How on earth does that work?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkDVWkNq7tw
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklZjL5lHnB
Pars uncrouched and brushed his palms against each other.
"It's just a skill I've picked up over the years."
"Ya really like showing off, don't ya? Strong folk, I swear..."
Pars veered his gaze to Juke, a subtle smirk plastering itself on his face.
"Cool looks are just a bonus. Seriously though, it's a useful skill."
"Are you sure?" Dave asked, "Because their skulls were a lot more liable to shatter with a stunt like that."
"...What's that supposed to mean?"
Dave sighed and pinched his nose.
"Let's just count our blessings and chalk it up to them being dull and stupid. Now come on, let's hurry."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcMdIMWDdxy
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm9OVTS3f0H
Dave stepped foot into the street, looking both ways and jogging to his store. Grabbed one of the bodies under the shoulders and motioned Pars to join him, which he did. The two dragged the bodies into another alleyway, disappearing.
"Those two look like real shady people. Ya sure we can trust 'em?"
"After what we just saw, I wouldn't blame you for thinking that. But, they're good people."
"I'm just pulling yer leg. I know they're good folks."
"Pulling my leg, huh...?"
Finding a strange humor in his wording, I chuckled. Juke walked closer to the entrance of the alleyway, giving us a better view of the street. I looked both ways to find that it was clear.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ8aZTaEowY
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdfIJxlPF6
"They're okay, right?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvBhKjaw5ie
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTmHfhWg3Yh
"Yer getting nervous?"
"When haven't I been nervous!?"
"Good point."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXzZjs1gprD
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYwcAZGQWpR
I eyed the alleyway the two waltzed into and felt a weight form in my stomach with each passing second. To my relief, they walked out just a minute later and judging from their leisurely gaits, they didn't run into any trouble.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnvMUczWihb
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCd8dtL0QoN
Pars walked up to Juke and me while Dave meddled with the shop door.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiJ8CQf1jFw
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBiS0m0VE5
"The coast looks clear. Once we go in, we gotta head right on upstairs. Dave will act like a frontman for us, shutting any trouble out."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhl5yaeujQM
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaWPaFSsTGV
We nodded at his statement and went to wait beside the door. To my surprise, Dave was fumbling with his keys. He opened the door just fine, but seeing such a slip-up, minor as it was, gave me a daunting premonition.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy3XlVPhr97
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdyoub3x0Av
I set the thought aside as we entered the shop. From all the interior architecture I've seen thus far, my expectations were low. However, the inside of the shop was orderly and ornamental. Antique lamps, though snuffed, were sprawled on various tables lined with products and price tags. I could infer from the pottery and other ceramic objects what Dave's shop was all about, but I still felt inclined to ask.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1BITybUO9k
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mKBJLjTOx
"What do you sell in the shop, Dave?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSkP96UCboU
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvvZkh4mtYZ
"Decorative objects, as you can see. They're brought here by potters from neighboring areas. Very few of them are reinforced with mana suspension, so I wouldn't go touching them. In fact, don't touch them at all, any of you. Especially you, Pars."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtzDtY4vtqK
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7tbHVyCsy2
"You're a bigger enemy than the Bringers at this point."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzVuFIKoydv
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQuf1JYcmC
I blankly stared at their exchange before returning to the conversation.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqNqwsQfEyi
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMBqw7Db5qP
"R-Right. Have you made any of these yourself?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7A1T1YJw3
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjvWjItIlYn
He stopped by the counter and leaned on it. He turned and looked at me with an unreadable smirk.
"Hell no. Anything I could make would be too grotty to sell to the inhabitants of a communication city."
"That is... an awfully good point. But that begs the question–"
"And I'll answer it for you happily: the administrators and officers here love their decoration. You won't believe how much they've paid for some of these products. Frankly, I overcharge for most of these products. I don't get many sent in, obviously, so I need to make them count."
"I see. But I feel like I'm missing the full picture ."
"I haven't the time to explain it."
He stood up straight and looked at us intently.
"Go on upstairs now. Pars should explain the situation. Should. There is food and water, so rest. Once you're ready, we'll meet up with the Retaliation Crowd."
"Retaliation Crowd?" Juke asked. Dave nodded in reply. Juke sighed and shook his head.
"What did I get myself into...? Alright, Pars, ya better explain what this Retaliation Squad's all about."
"It's crowd, but sure. Follow me."
Pars turned to the stairs and began to ascend them. We followed, but I made sure to wave to Dave before he left my sight. Then, just as I finished, Juke spoke.
"Not to spoil yer mood, but that talk ya had with Dave bored me to death. Didn't help that I had to carry ya the whole time."
"Ah, sorry. I'm not being too much of a hassle, am I?"
"Nah, yer real small and skinny, it's just that I've been carrying ya for too long."
"Right."
My tone quickly lowered when I heard his roundabout insult. We arrived at the second floor shortly after. I immediately drew similarities to my apartment; analogous doors parallel to each other lined the albeit short hallway. Pars placed his hands on the door to the right and entered it.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCiNCNLBkmI
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzMJC7LJoYq
"Wait here just a second, I need to grab something."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIrbMIRC9SO
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE8y3hXRbnk
Pars entered through the door. A few seconds passed, and he peered his head across the threshold.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzyh6VeaCNo
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkbfUPT54Ix
"Nevermind. It'll be a lot easier if you two come in."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhYI0rpPJ0R
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYN9nYXBxnI
He motioned us to enter. Juke began to move, but I quickly realized that it was a bad idea.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwEVKDJU9HB
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDafM1Fz5Qb
"W-Wait, put me down first!"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoCy02KX877
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfP19G7nETD
"Eh? Why?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ5kqp7Lxe4
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrLH4jkAure
"I'll hit my head on the frame. No, my whole upper body."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbgtPYl2cn
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBuUe0MWCG
"Ah, my fault, my fault. Here, I'll getcha down."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS2T3HEVvba
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9e5h6dEUa
He grabbed me by the side of my chest and hauled me over his head. I grazed my hair on the roof, but I was set on the floor without much issue. Once I got my balance, we entered the room.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXctOP7X5rk
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5ltQCWfnd
"This place looks nice," Juke said, "Is there where yer living?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFCxx72ihqD
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsutJeStXK
I glossed over the room in search of a place to sit. Once my eyes landed on a chair, I hobbled to it and slowly set myself down.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRv1FnNUjls
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIZw6gBNowV
"Only for the time being. Also, how on earth do you think this place looks nice?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaD0Lmjt4uH
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXh7jmRDFp4
"It's got a bed and chair and everythin'. What's there to hate 'bout it?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzumaVgVvsd
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk0c38anxYM
"...It's dusty and shabby."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDvUTfPYC7v
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1k2kFSwIy
"That ain't the room's fault, that's yers."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKgghGsVdqW
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnQpkoKuWu3
Pars raised his finger and opened his mouth, but nothing came out. He sighed and leaned against the wall, holding a thick paper in his hand.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAYdQZkZ5Yo
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDcSyIMFDyr
"Take a seat, Juke. There are a few things I need to relay to you two."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzGB7DrV7Ch
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdeWgQiXQtc
Juke nodded and picked a spot on the bed. He stretched his arms before giving Pars an earnest look.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡef0AN8wLf0
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡitf1Dw7KPk
"You two ready?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyfs0ghwoxQ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrVrNzNsJDo
I nodded.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtdpqw1cFOf
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHBGAgUCkr
"Get on with it already," Juke blurted.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIqo6za63i6
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDBznil7q0t
"I'll start you two off easy. As you two know, all of the Pillars have been captured by Hard-Bringer."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcRNhNWnli7
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3l0cEZ3u57
Juke and I nodded in reply.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXijECwQcvb
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxkOv7s9H2V
"Well, since these are the paragons of the city, it's pretty important to capture them. Of course, the Retaliation Crowd is planning on capturing them all."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbVttWac0NY
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfd9Ydq75fN
"If I may ask, where is this 'Retaliation Crowd' right now?" I asked.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyr6ih1bAdt
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnRKAhlxJeK
Pars shifted his pose and rubbed the back of his head.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJaXk1h32nS
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOe7fjxmsgK
"They're in different buildings. The Retaliation Crowd is split into five parts. It's a pretty big movement, so if we tried to group everyone up in one building, we'd be too obvious."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTEKoTFlix9
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxDKoCTibbU
"That makes sense. I'm assuming this isn't one of the buildings?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPXCs0lJkiw
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSANj76TxdC
"Of course not. Why'd we be talking about heading somewhere else if it was?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjpgnrbx1PZ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZvY0Axr5S
"...Sorry, I'm just tired."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ptwIzbcmk
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBRniNcXgI
"Don't sweat it."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlyfec5Qbvr
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnL6DSGJKlN
I sighed and rubbed my temple, deciding to hold the reins on my questions.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbCdqvPR7E3
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHZjIIVEByr
"Back to what I was saying, the Retaliation Crowd is split into five buildings, but they've all got something in common, and that's their proximity. They're all close to the Central Communication Pillar."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEWPF8odfP
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbhsPEA7hG
"Are ya gonna say what I think ya will?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ31Y7fgeVQ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGscomjZuX
Pars sighed and smiled dryly.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ql5LOHB0c
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9T091ZFN7l
"Yes, the plan goes like so: we all storm the Central Communication Pillar, overtake it, and make that our new base of operations. It will put a huge target on our back, but if everyone in the city learns that we've taken the Pillar then–"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBL8kom7Rgu
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0v7n7m8qJL
"I don't care 'bout yer reasons, I just wanna know why ya coerced us into doing this when ya know damn well our business is with another Pillar."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3bHBXn0k4k
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe3mgRQYkHh
My body tensed. The weight of the air multiplied tenfold. I felt like I had to rebuke Juke's statement, to tell him that we were trying to help the city too, but I stopped. I couldn't push the words out of my throat.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwtQmGJ7n2r
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDu1rPxTPF0
Pars, however, seemed unfazed, almost as if he was expecting a rebuttal like this.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNPRovWB8dA
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn4ET2b9j1u
"I ain't trying to attack ya, I just don't get why we can't start with the Foreign whatever Pillar. Why are ya taking us for a ride with this one first?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQSeSkexn2M
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnWHUlsVjum
"I get why you're frustrated, and I'll explain it to you. We're storming the Central Pillar so we can call in for backup."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrUzWB0VYKe
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyHfh7Ycm7
"Backup?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡngYfGAdvYR
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDfcVpvD2ti
Pars nodded.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3Ho8yhHp7
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ56BLWu7Kax
"Since the Central Pillar deals with communication across the Southern Country, we'll send an SOS message. Afterward, it'll only be a matter of time until all of Hard-Bringer will flee."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXCiBoFjmiI
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3qSzL7eZUw
"A matter of time? How long does it take, huh?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7OScAtMoMG
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5NE7QSkBPp
"...Well, as long as the raptors are still alive, it should be a day or two at most."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHy72jrp0Co
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCyYo6w1ea9
Juke gave me a stern gaze, and I returned it. We nodded at each other, and I took the responsibility of breaking to news.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbANaKnJmyz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTG4MbgJbfv
"Juke and I were at one of the stables earlier, Pars. All of the animals there were slaughtered."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtPnj4OlIvf
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTZhy8EtteW
Pars' eyes widened. He leaned forward.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs8S3koYCXV
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWetnVjf1Y
"A-Are you serious?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡidtF83cNZ7
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0HIAK0nVvx
"Unfortunately, I am. I doubt they spared any other animals either."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3g1IaKq93P
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡExh1FhaqKG
"That... shit, that complicates things, doesn't it?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFIEYSspb1F
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQJijU6VAbW
He pinched his chin and gazed at the ground, his eyes twitching as sweat washed over his face.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi399AaKJZV
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsTgKizXvyl
"Means ya got a change of plans, eh? That must be a blow to the gut."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1BLW1pDYXP
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHznZkSNzTO
"That's one way to put it," Pars replied, "Crap. We were banking on only having to retake one Pillar, too..."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrbmIi5NS5z
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡENmGKWpq0I
With a strained face, Pars induced himself to rumination.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTTLVNj9lZx
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVHU2NhlAge
"Since yer plan's ruined, does mean we can go straight for the Foreign one?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmgFPhNji2P
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡycDwg5SxFy
"Well, that wouldn't be a bad idea and all, but–"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY6I0P5uwkz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0cvtMMetGx
His face stayed rigid. After a while, he just sighed.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwlGILT1Mp
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwfK87sMXOx
"I'll have to discuss it with Lola. She's the head of this whole operation, but she also knows a lot more about the Pillars than I do."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjwG756YNyb
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxWqP1J7OT
"...Gotcha."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7J4xrdrUz
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC1UFgmR9a6
Juke meekly replied to Pars' conclusion. Pars fixed his posture again and pushed his hand through his hair.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWy4XDjMLd
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgn2eHefOEs
"Alright, that threw a wrench in what I was gonna say. If we still go to the Central Pillar first, will you two still help us?"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Re6jajJLq
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRiLCmJvuoL
Before Juke could give a response, I opened my mouth.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ3cqk4yzEa
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLfO3rhJ6vR
"I... I will. I still want to help."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYZp8YC70jb
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKzxeU5UmHd
"...I can't deliver the letter without yer group anyway. It'd be a pain to have to fight Hard-Bringer even more, so I'm prayin' that we skip to the Pillar we want."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSudcOnJU47
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ85Hbfygc0c
As Juke proclaimed his thoughts, he walked over to Pars and offered his hand, which Pars almost instinctually took.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWZvvjTUehf
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjKbU9BFxgP
"I'm glad you're on our side. I'm expecting big things from a big guy like you."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfDyv9jaWoO
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbIjWucWBD
Pars slapped the side of Juke's shoulder. Juke stopped shaking his hand but didn't let go of it.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJVx1bWzi54
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoqm5l7WV1
"Ya really shouldn't, pal. I'll do my best, and that's all I can promise ya."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8psoaxbIFQ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa9L5oIMXQv
He let go of Pars' hand.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9DE7xZXBsc
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡejP1JTqSCM
"I'll crash in one of these spare rooms."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXb2a4Ira3X
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1mXELAO6Ld
"Go ahead. We'll be leaving in a few hours, so make yourself at home. There should be food and water in any of them."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf3n2lGl7VN
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2VdN7h9G47
Juke gave Pars a nod and left. Pars looked at me intently. He seemed to be insisting on something. Then I remembered whose room I was in.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPtSzIrZmdN
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJosjb0IKwm
"Oh, sorry, I'll go ahead and leave–"275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsmWWTaM0u
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp7rbkVlLKl
"No no, stay here. You're exhausted as is. Plus, I'd feel bad about kicking a kid out of my room."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzg1OYt31A
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ61wwRLUzIH
He crossed his arms and nodded to himself with a satisfied smile.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqkC0AaVGRd
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbzcxSoXh5c
"Rest up. I'll be seeing you soon."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEPLuszbqb2
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldfUCUzw6B
"Right. Thanks for the room."
Pars turned the other way and exited, closing the door behind him and leaving me alone.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp45lkr8nLJ
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0a8ruYQSGy
"...I shouldn't waste any time."275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQDlMkBk5dt
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHW87b9dKv
Before plummeting into another spiral of thoughts, I got on my wobbly feet and limped to the bed. I couldn't fall on my back, nor could I roll on it when my body hit the mattress. The moment I landed, my eyes closed.275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHvVYdHY2Nk
275Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgvTkQrb91y
Uncaring of the soreness this position would bring me, I immediately succumbed to sleep.
