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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGOOomJq6Jk
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLw3213foB
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Juke took a seat beside me while panting, taking his helmet off, and wiping the sweat off his brow.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgId4tGjn9q
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"I ain't ever ran that fast before shit."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1YJj2kbRtN
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRPQzqpt3dn
We took a minute to get ourselves situated. I looked up at the sky, taking deep breaths.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlSeAI0OB83
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLCMWIReTL
"I wish... I packed an energy potion."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3pjoA7sNhC
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡveMBtfMK9d
"Ya know how to make one?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYn12iHfadW
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5y1I3yCgOF
"...No, I'm just thinking of coffee."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnd84W4QwW
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He clicked his tongue in disappointment. I made a mental note to check if things such as energy potions truly existed later.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxGvQHtCLv
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"Are you two feeling well? I'm assuming a fight broke out."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2yc0TfGfGs
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIi5tY0p5Rv
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn2RiWNiTSI
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"We're doin' fine. Thanks for helpin' us."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgRhp9uAfQ
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgvsmA55dl9
"Sure thing," Pars interjected with a gentle smile.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZkqE5k0PlY
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGyp1hvTdl
"So, Kenny, right? care to explain what happened?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pCROpVkOC
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDShNzwJXrw
Pars took a seat on the pavement, and the man beside him followed.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvy1FVeOkPw
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"Uh... well-"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFvGTKDHGQh
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"Before all that, how about ya two introduce yerselves? It's obvious Kenny met ya, but I hate to be left in the dark."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpXnJ6Q5xf
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"Ah, of course!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMDV2iC3Rpr
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Pars rubbed the back of his head.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugFveFGmYg
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"The name's Pars. This grumpy fellow is Dave. Nice to meet you, uh,"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2EzZgLqfx0
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtznXDpdfLY
"Juke."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ78nF5uyeOC
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡowahYOrprC
I weakly snapped my fingers, almost admonishing myself for forgetting a name like Dave.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtM3z8UhXOM
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1jd5087pJe
"Juke. That's an odd name. Where do you come from?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgeNukJkmTc
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVxJBFSVEKq
"That ain't important right now. Since Kenny looks like he's gonna drop dead any minute, I'll do all the explaining."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡujTtsYxxUD
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVZsg9ZOI9f
Juke gave me a sidelong wink. I gave him a fragile thumbs-up, whispering a thanks.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJHh0UI086z
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxtBwWEfY5
"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCtfvCCTgOK
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJoZ8KrYABP
"You fought directly with the Harbinger? You two are pretty impressive," Pars replied.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmKJud4XnO1
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3ylaV99ASA
"Nah, ya should've seen it. We were getting tossed around like she was playing ball. Seriously, just look at Kenny."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGx6eDBqC3S
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGDSYeZml2N
They all diverted their gazes to me. I felt more inclined to correct Juke than to get embarrassed.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡykxrCzpEpa
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"I did this to myself, though."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7Zpgs0VKB
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"I ain't sweating the details here, kid."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JUTfxX2Gs
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"You're just lying to them, though."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwfFYeqhQE
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJp3faSoAn
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIxO4YUSbS
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH1BB9rBVtD
"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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7NeWgEvkrf
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPzYaRa8gua
"Why were you two targeted in particular?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhZ1WAqDGhn
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtypbmtsDPg
Dave spoke up. My rest was short-lived, but I wasn't particularly miffed about it.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbI4fzooOO8
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"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!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNVfVUIINNI
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ84MIw6D4OC
"Your mission," Pars asked, "Wait, you were also tasked with delivering the letter?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQrSCjiecmf
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The silence that ensued was awkward and oppressive.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAMPzEqywlc
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"Kenny, who the hell is this guy?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlObbH8fK7O
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡegNW0uxfOW
"O-Oh, well, he's one of the people who helped Rover and me deliver the letter."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAloR1eNeKs
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡggjqfo0Bjg
"Ah, I thought he was some bad news. Well, even if ya were, yer helping us is enough to let it slide."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn9pFsIEGfd
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"I'm flattered."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0dM6aKwNd
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"Nah, but ya really gave me a scare, goodness."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLDkFqHu6kQ
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyneKGtr0X
Juke grabbed his chest and took an elongated, heavy breath, continuing the conversation once he assuaged himself.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ4CD1IxaUw
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"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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn8UaAlovYp
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"..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQolc6UzHYL
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0AXpzA83yB
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkra1uSQCON
"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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqrr7a51l0S
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"...I don't like where this is goin'."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6wUnu8UXMG
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Juke voiced my thoughts exactly. I nodded along to his questioning, which Pars took as a cue to continue.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB5AYcE6J9J
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLVRTzkAJXq
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRDdbb3jeiH
"...The hell does that mean?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4XsvMAQwht
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"That means that the letter that Kenny and Rover delivered hasn't been, and most likely, won't be sent out."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaqkBZ1QTr7
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3gQR38JIw
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBDZD17GtMe
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"Ya gotta be kidding me, man."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUV6qqy40ax
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"I'm sorry, but I'm not."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgfuJwu446S
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"Haaaa... shit."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTAaUN1ChTe
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyvLsBTkV0
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"What does that mean for us," I asked.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbS5FwT2mzi
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"Considering how you two were being attacked for just embarking on the mission," " Dave responded, "they'd likely destroy it once they find it."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMkcf02svj2
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"So we're working against the clock is what yer saying?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNPPGglqef
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I was bemused by Juke's wording, but outright shocked when I saw him stand up and stretch his hands.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQeXznck1fy
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6IpwR377SO
"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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ3AFOEw0us
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZusbjBpVLz
"I guess so," Pars replied, "Does that mean what I think it means?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfrW8s2J668
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"Yer gonna have to do some more explainin' of course, but if yer already forming a group to counterattack, I'm all in."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBR0EC3kAo
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBebdGnot04
"W-Wait," I said, "Hold on, give me a moment to think about this"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLFrQway5K
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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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoI95kyYPax
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkCA8y7TuDO
Juke's sudden question dragged me out of my thoughts.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsiPPIx5rFR
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2NMeLccwID
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6bCHgnoava
Pars leaned in and placed the side of his palm against the side of his lips as if he were whispering to us.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKXSldALbLz
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"It's just Dave's shop. It's a pretty crummy place, believe it or not."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3EZPXuClsI
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrkdNX60WL9
Dave stood up, brushing dirt off his pants and adjusting the collars on his sleeves.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXWrqkZtfwL
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"I'll make sure to blacklist you once this is over."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW1OllkmHju
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQQIWGRYgx3
Pars stood up himself, rotating his shoulder to stretch it.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCgSI5aETrI
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"Come on, I'm just joking around."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4P010uakta
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"I'm not. You're annoying, I don't want you near it."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIE4k3QdlIn
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"...You gotta work on your jokes, Dave."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTYQV9YKdaw
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3UyZQg2mYo
Dave didn't respond to Pars. He turned his gaze to us and lightly bowed.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxB5Gr6pDk
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGPmcQNnAV
"Once you two are ready, please follow me. Pars, make yourself useful and watch out for any incoming Bringers."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBPyPABTifC
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXD6VnJvwxV
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VN26RbqgL
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"...Bringers? Is that what they call them?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsU4kV6nCPk
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"Ya good to go, kid?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWEB7MGkJNC
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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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMk14Z6J6A
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡopI1qLE1j6
"My name is Dave."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ54lsHVzE6q
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwIyEtDNEV
"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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡByeCjpSkFb
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPl8FVeL4g6
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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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavsWtHu07E
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Dave had his head pointed at the nearby street. I saw his eyes narrow from the side.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEF3fSMWmBy
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"My shop is just around the corner, but Bringers are guarding it."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPaJJnJcDAz
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Immediately, the air around us stiffened. Pars' expression contorted to one showing unease, and even Dave's stoic mein dawned a blanket of sweat.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSzR9ZT2sf
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Pars cracked his neck and knuckles, reaching into his coat and withdrawing a knife so large I had to do a double-take.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGb2XfkWKyt
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"How many are there?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZGJ8maVqY
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"Only three. You should be able to handle them, right?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0RwLKkvFyB
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"Depends; are they just lackeys?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmi5hnP7hbw
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLnLF1b7xHy
"...Come and judge for yourself."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkpmhIvsaTO
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfz2WaDVLtS
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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3EPxR89XUk
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrQ5Mj0vcHY
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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡigpZaPPlOF
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFh8LbxrSmj
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhU6M0k8S2p
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"They're okay, right?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsg5Urj6GMY
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jpZmk6Yha
"Yer getting nervous?"
"When haven't I been nervous!?"
"Good point."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmVZDLsqpMr
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxfYQ7XAVrE
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwdguhjGCl4
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSRh2l9Kp5J
Pars walked up to Juke and me while Dave meddled with the shop door.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhlow2BOpyI
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhqtpY3MJC9
"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wKmh8PGQO
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv2AkwshrWm
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgAlmRTmZ3M
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jj82LrDIm
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"What do you sell in the shop, Dave?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi9lxIqYqjm
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgZzkEqnbZ4
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Hp4TuGNgm
"You're a bigger enemy than the Bringers at this point."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1FTchQnJK7
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY7LZYcGpio
I blankly stared at their exchange before returning to the conversation.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFw0dRjogAt
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYruAVzqytg
"R-Right. Have you made any of these yourself?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpAqKArIaa
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8oOpEqsNlB
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"Wait here just a second, I need to grab something."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcXp4NqTrIp
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡytcpKgUici
Pars entered through the door. A few seconds passed, and he peered his head across the threshold.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmwQmP1nc3G
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"Nevermind. It'll be a lot easier if you two come in."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0qPFSa5lOG
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡddO4q9r8Xk
He motioned us to enter. Juke began to move, but I quickly realized that it was a bad idea.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9n3OYaCUgE
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"W-Wait, put me down first!"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrOLnS6nfZq
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"Eh? Why?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmh9Rh8I6hd
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"I'll hit my head on the frame. No, my whole upper body."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwlTUyFEFLY
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"Ah, my fault, my fault. Here, I'll getcha down."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO5XUHgAQ7h
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡakqrEvuvAK
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtyyeMOt08k
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh00SwFOjZD
"This place looks nice," Juke said, "Is there where yer living?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYwxL8ZwiWn
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLrDA7FCXK
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe7qDkwQhEc
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHASwWxJv6z
"Only for the time being. Also, how on earth do you think this place looks nice?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJqkhBlgz3r
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxXpz2wGGHP
"It's got a bed and chair and everythin'. What's there to hate 'bout it?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqrjx3rbzY
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb1CVt3xnXx
"...It's dusty and shabby."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6932BjUJs0
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTDrotlHal
"That ain't the room's fault, that's yers."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrvzGT52AzU
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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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA0XB0kEe3L
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"Take a seat, Juke. There are a few things I need to relay to you two."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFCiMzgP5R
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2F0XhQMMzs
Juke nodded and picked a spot on the bed. He stretched his arms before giving Pars an earnest look.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIC6AW7w1Yl
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"You two ready?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMNDFkaLFOT
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I nodded.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUd82oupSa
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"Get on with it already," Juke blurted.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwp7xeyttql
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSc4qvq8lhL
"I'll start you two off easy. As you two know, all of the Pillars have been captured by Hard-Bringer."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSe7BkZLkVy
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLk48w8mMAg
Juke and I nodded in reply.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ51sqBkzzGT
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiFc7WQ1EBt
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3l3cM3Qyl9
"If I may ask, where is this 'Retaliation Crowd' right now?" I asked.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1WwKuNuXcE
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Pars shifted his pose and rubbed the back of his head.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ10pXOmUfKI
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKev8CTr08
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVWGDVCIIVM
"That makes sense. I'm assuming this isn't one of the buildings?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTV4Gw4FVK7
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"Of course not. Why'd we be talking about heading somewhere else if it was?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66iIEw96cL
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdq8EqcuBzn
"...Sorry, I'm just tired."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSz0scCkZsw
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡieemBnUk19
"Don't sweat it."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50wVGGNo4K
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I sighed and rubbed my temple, deciding to hold the reins on my questions.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY9TQPxj3lW
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6qwQlmVYu4
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhHaOxl495
"Are ya gonna say what I think ya will?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC71THb9YnC
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Pars sighed and smiled dryly.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUdOdNQN3f
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJA5coPL2RK
"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–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡncA330Nh2f
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuMlyqGKOY6
"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLTVbOGXzu5
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbp2RjyoxeQ
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG8MKbM6nZL
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Pars, however, seemed unfazed, almost as if he was expecting a rebuttal like this.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUduHTzitwl
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"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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDHpGTXzSWK
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcc2Zh7HAE1
"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd4JchaQsnJ
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcWv52PDAMm
"Backup?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpz6nbTh598
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Pars nodded.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3RP22nEoN
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡghlrWDruWu
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ89h9LYr9Gl
"A matter of time? How long does it take, huh?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGcdc0Cwi9
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"...Well, as long as the raptors are still alive, it should be a day or two at most."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYQum5vdzhq
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Juke gave me a stern gaze, and I returned it. We nodded at each other, and I took the responsibility of breaking to news.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKeUJAxVqzo
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"Juke and I were at one of the stables earlier, Pars. All of the animals there were slaughtered."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTPmqJ46fGD
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Pars' eyes widened. He leaned forward.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaUxUK2e0Hz
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"A-Are you serious?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡge6I5nl9HS
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"Unfortunately, I am. I doubt they spared any other animals either."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdDJBp178H
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"That... shit, that complicates things, doesn't it?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk92cZbH31g
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He pinched his chin and gazed at the ground, his eyes twitching as sweat washed over his face.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMB2k5OAeiv
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"Means ya got a change of plans, eh? That must be a blow to the gut."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz3FgiDVmOT
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5oj7vXMXTn
"That's one way to put it," Pars replied, "Crap. We were banking on only having to retake one Pillar, too..."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgLW8BR7E9q
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With a strained face, Pars induced himself to rumination.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡollBHt1ExO
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"Since yer plan's ruined, does mean we can go straight for the Foreign one?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD3ybBwIkv4
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBBUULFJXW
"Well, that wouldn't be a bad idea and all, but–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6R3mpj3ccn
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His face stayed rigid. After a while, he just sighed.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡncNCrktBo8
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz7Sb6MIceY
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"...Gotcha."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVitbRvk4EA
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Juke meekly replied to Pars' conclusion. Pars fixed his posture again and pushed his hand through his hair.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHhcv5tul4G
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJtCBbM0BQ4
"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?"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhpyOT8eX1
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ70gbP7VvCI
Before Juke could give a response, I opened my mouth.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC6p5i7QfxS
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"I... I will. I still want to help."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtYrhTChegS
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"...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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW1RqZswvHp
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNuhpa4MM5
As Juke proclaimed his thoughts, he walked over to Pars and offered his hand, which Pars almost instinctually took.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCyaAnzp3cU
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPCFUpnOhCj
"I'm glad you're on our side. I'm expecting big things from a big guy like you."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpDUFHXuBAG
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxxYZF8nAr
Pars slapped the side of Juke's shoulder. Juke stopped shaking his hand but didn't let go of it.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvgcWUH7H6q
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"Ya really shouldn't, pal. I'll do my best, and that's all I can promise ya."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDPN10pzFxn
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIrz034jQso
He let go of Pars' hand.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNC5no8k9yH
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"I'll crash in one of these spare rooms."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhlFSmVreys
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"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."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoV9WCjxbql
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy5bnjbe4Ux
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ727FQZyJ78
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"Oh, sorry, I'll go ahead and leave–"143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡghjXo0qiTb
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxI69HPBIu
"No no, stay here. You're exhausted as is. Plus, I'd feel bad about kicking a kid out of my room."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs1TzFSNPbg
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He crossed his arms and nodded to himself with a satisfied smile.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3kJi8AqwJh
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"Rest up. I'll be seeing you soon."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh2dHSjT0fW
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzonikMsOzL
"Right. Thanks for the room."
Pars turned the other way and exited, closing the door behind him and leaving me alone.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGKhnrVMnoD
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ44n69YzEQh
"...I shouldn't waste any time."143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7Cuo3MUnH
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQSSxjvkw1T
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.143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7MeS9SEvt
143Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBylQJ0wNdy
Uncaring of the soreness this position would bring me, I immediately succumbed to sleep.
