Keeping up with the crowd was nigh impossible. Juke was saintly enough to wait for me, but I could tell by how he clicked his tongue that he was getting annoyed. Or was he getting anxious? I couldn't tell.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMDPAUWvvA
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3hXHeuUrqm
We arrived at the third floor. Another duo split off and the rest of us ascended. My poor stamina gave me difficulty, but I was riding a wave of adrenaline and anticipation I'd never felt before. Each step came and went without me realizing it, and soon enough, the floors whizzed by like a faint image. It was not until the seventh floor that I acknowledged what I saw again.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡryonnLncVT
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDsG1aH7AL
As it had gone since this started, I arrived last in the room, taking a moment to pant and catch my breath. The floor this time didn't have a straight shot from the entrance to the exit. It resembled the first floor more than anything: a large surface area with a foyer-like zone and branching paths, its size made possible only because there was no hallway transitioning from the stairs.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7e7ZEGT25R
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡloxGHobUzw
What was truly worrisome, though, was the lack of Bringers.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNLHQYndN0k
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqPJRlxJPZ
Though the floors flashed by, I never failed to keep my eye on the danger that resided in them. Not seeing them right away immediately put me on edge, and judging from the sluggish pace of everyone else, I wasn't alone. The crowd practically prowled the room. Some even checked behind furniture.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFBr0FCCWdb
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSECARJBbhg
A minute passed, and the foyer was pronounced empty. The crowd left the zone, but I had to shoot one last scanning glance before I followed. They all moved to the left, and moving in tow, I turned the corner.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeAdlqw4dxo
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK3VD4A8P8x
Though the entrance was similar to the first floor's, the primary chamber was different. Instead of a bulk surrounded by a circling hallway, it was four evenly spaced booths, forming a diamond, on a carpeted floor. The exit was placed stiffly by the topmost box. I noticed it before anyone else, but I was too nervous to point it out. It barely mattered since Pars noted it just a second later.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh4PLYLkugB
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"Exit's here! Let's roll!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgqKjQHgzdY
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqULNHFz7g
I had a perfect line of sight from where I stood. Pars' forge ahead, and the sudden figure that sprung from a blindspot.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvveYlJVTSR
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfUt8DsdPIF
Everyone was caught off guard. The figure wore a familiar robe, one I loathed to see. Pars managed to block his leap, but the man had a cylinder resting on his shoulder. He pointed it at him and–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnf3fllP6lX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx8PKnDbz18
**BOOM**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUy7m7abFMk
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAHor04CpX
A cloud of debris burst throughout the room. I closed my eyes in the nick of time, but the dust pricked and pinched at my skin. At least, it felt that way at first, until the squeezes transformed into burns.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpWKUjAxhLm
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"Ack!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnSyoMEblVi
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNnDGyW76C
I brushed my skin with my hands but it was futile with how thick the cloud was. Too afraid to open my eyes, I moved my feet backward until I collided with something. My back hit the wall, I fell to the ground, and only then did I work up the nerve to see.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡibFw1Bq4aS
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzVMgiQzalg
The room was a catastrophe.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XwC1Oz64m
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJjEOKYWso
Bodies littered the floor like wilting flowers. The warriors still moved and breathed but they writhed and gasped, clawing at their faces and limbs. The dust cloud was fortunately settling, and in the midst of nigh-cadavers was the robed man, lying on the ground.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIroZApYP5K
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM51ylYddAu
Pars was on him. His coat was seared and his face was scratched, but he still brought down punches as if he suffered no injuries. After a few to the face, the man blocked one and shoved Pars off his body. He got up to the ground fast and assumed a fighting stance.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7s9Hf5IWyF
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCHLLwBGtKg
"Everyone," he shouted, "if you can see, help the blinded! Get a move on!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAG7kaalz45
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Through the pressure of the situation, his commanding words resonated with the crowd. People followed his orders to a tee; everyone but me. I stood there, not from terror, but indecision.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNr2GW7sSse
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhGckmETn13
I was behind the robed man. His backside was perfectly exposed. I was stuck between running or sneaking in a strike. But, once the two started exchanging attacks, I quit my vacillating and propped up my arm, beginning mana expulsion–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHYFY1ErORz
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡakole14Gkf
**STRIKE**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkSI0siSzC
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–only to be immediately interrupted.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiYgzZGOz6p
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKSK6H1D7sk
A metallic clang blew out and shook my body not because of its ferocity, but because it happened right behind me. I turned my head a second after and saw two clashing swords, forming an x.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYT351GYdpl
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"Stop standin' still kid! Move!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipaamAZedf
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdlsxu2B7wr
Without a second beat, I scurried away. I continued mana expulsion, partially out of instinct, and weakly lobbed a sturdy stone at the swords.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxfJ9AqCaM
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1dDIgTVf0
I didn't hit them. They separated, and only then did I see who wielded them. Juke on the right, and another robed man on the left.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7nFVIXDisN
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjBIxygjLPF
I've seen those navy motifs enough to have them evoke a fighting instinct in me. I quickly regained my composure and got in a stance, taking my tendril out. Juke ran to my side, but he didn't stop.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcJZK8PAiZk
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"C'mon!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqgwj8GkZU
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"--Ah!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUJpC1tP5uO
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2B6TrZxye
I was quick enough to realize that this wasn't my fight. I turned tail and followed Juke, noticing that I finally wasn't the last to leave.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUbCGn8JXRC
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbdlrIRCBzn
I made no effort to inspect the ones who weren't moving.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9lfC2JDwFS
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–
–
–
What a moron.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0czh6HbbPs
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszA3F4p1O1
It was to be expected– it should've been expected. The signs were so obvious that he knocked himself for being so remiss.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡag9IaHVGt7
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEnkfYoP2PB
A large room, utterly silent until the decisive moment. An ambush in a guarded building; what a concept, wasn't it?139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMcGH14SsvW
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDIIGAlYv0r
**THUD**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVntoMqITB
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"Ngh!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4q68b90RGx
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That quaking strike brought him out of his scolding. He slid across the floor, biting his lips over his bruised arms.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQCnONC4DaH
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb8SC5SJAJ4
"That thing on your shoulder's a real blowhard–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVtj9pgbrvK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2nL0jE977
Unable to finish his line, forced to roll to the side to avoid a devastating projectile. It shook the room even through the magic-resistant skeleton. He got to his feet and reached into his torn coat, pulling out a single crossbow and shooting.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnwKwONzUx
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbJ8uxVtvjb
To his surprise, the bolt connected. The Bringer was too slow on his feet to dodge it. It didn't connect with his body, however.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcc0aACxXsK
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"--I should've known!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNrGSUOnSuu
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Instead, the bolt lodged into a plate of wood, one thrown from the side. Pars darted his gaze and saw a second Bringer. They quickly rushed to the first one's side.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEmviUvhQ3v
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPrtVqWXNMM
"Two against one, huh? I should've expected such dirty play, but–!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmoZe7qWrVr
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJKDJPe6Zx
Pars had a tool in his disposal to even the odds.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9C2Tl6lNps
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"DAVE!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURwkWbIS5T
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡacki5BGkFu
Shouting the name of his colleague, he turned his head this way and that to see where his partner was, making sure to glance back at his enemies occasionally. The Bringers didn't move, but they exchanged looks. Pars understood the meaning even with their faces covered. He ignored that, focusing on his unsuccessful finding of his friend, and so–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX49wBKGdWj
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL6eGgqzpt3
"Dave! If you can hear me, I need some help!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGgupbdSdl
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡECn6gsaB8O
He shouted again as he eyed the Bringers. The two got in a fighting stance, brandishing their respective weapons and preparing to dash. But, they didn't.
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡedAKLoq2ch
It wasn't out of trepidation, of fear or anything of the sort, but because they noticed something Pars didn't. He glanced behind him and spotted the man he'd been looking for.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCg2QspjXM
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzGH0CSuIxX
"Dave? How'd you get over there!? I just checked that place!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6giySXaQEe
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ98ow4sYZgG
"Shut up, please. From now on, talk only with regards to the battle."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgOekadSNP
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDpvJJQOD0a
He stood up from his crouched position. Pars noticed that he was standing beside a body. It was motionless; completely still in the limbs and the chest. Had he not noticed that, Dave's face would've still given it away.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡreZGTaUNbk
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BcIa2ygSQ
"...Those are our first casualties–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeIhj4p1ax9
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbw1Yox2LE0
**BOOM**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFT4xIaNDpU
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPn2c3Azsy4
As Pars was making his remark, an ear-shattering blast materialized before him. His eyes looked away from the blast, as his head was turned to Dave at that moment. When he jerked back, all he saw was a floating, crumbling piece of pottery.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS6zyRp9x89
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxD8lTP6KyJ
"--Shit, I lost my focus! I owe you one!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJqi8561TcP
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbTYacKMPjW
Dave slowly strode to his side. He snatched the grains of the pottery, and as he held them in his hand, they shrunk into a pulp of clay he promptly dropped into a sack.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSWViEZwP3i
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡve1Ad84ckQ
"I'm here now."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBlbNLldj4
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Leaning down and reaching inside the sack, the two warriors now mirrored each other's stances. They glared at Bringers, anticipating a jerk, a dash, a shot or a swing or a slash. All the Bringers did was reciprocate.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrUiqoHawD6
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ2okn4FPLv
The clashing duos stood stock still in the silent room. Maimed by magic, coated in blood, reeking of death. His pounding heartbeat– the only sign he wasn't like corpses. Pars knew that losing would only lead to more.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiHLkGoJlz8
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaXarMUY550
And thus, he dashed forward, reaching in his coat.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9k9s1QzxG
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGPxPtbBpv
–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK2WIKJqhyh
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP5kZQsLMf0
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd3zRdcbcsm
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By some force of nature, the two men split to combat their respective opponents. Pars thought of stopping for a second, calling for Dave to help him team up on this one or something of the sort. But Pars knew they didn't have, nor ever could have a relationship like that.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiXq5Hp5zRa
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGg8nMArkq
He thought it strange that these were his thoughts right before the fight. Pars pushed them aside, but they already left their mark.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ddGwnEsRd
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbYUCJ4EY5
He drew his knife out of his coat while putting his unloaded crossbow back in. The man he was fighting with was the one with the explosive cylinder, a weapon that succeeded in range just as well as it did in close quarters. But from its size alone, Pars could tell it was unwieldy.
So he flipped his knife in a reverse grip and slashed at the Bringer, who stepped back from the attack. Pars followed with a spin and a kick, but his foot was just short of making contact. The Bringer retaliated with a small dash and a kick of his own, which Pars had to raise his chin to avoid.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF5VaxRoWjA
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTjD4OiDAXO
He slashed again, a horizontal one this time, and when it missed he tossed his knife to change its direction and slashed again. It missed the Bringer, but it caught his robe. It cut open, revealing what looked to be–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrDuD5FOt7X
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"Armor. Much like the others, huh?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxg6o3KPDp
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The Bringer clicked his tongue and backed away. Pars didn't chase him. He reached inside his coat and took out his second, loaded crossbow. He aimed it at him, which caused the bringer to panic and shield his chest with the cylinder. Pars didn't fire, instead, he began mana expulsion through his hand.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWCv8p8Baq
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8fgka5DpRT
The Bringer realized he had been tricked. He raised the cylinder and hoisted it on his shoulder, but by the time he could, Pars had already made his earthly contraption: A vase of stone, latched to his back and connected to his crossbow.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3D2pgJtZpu
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH9070KhuPf
One loud boom sounded throughout the room. The air around him, now dappled with cinders, guided the blazing arrow right to the Bringer.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgfKGCK4N61
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But the Bringer's contraption fired as well.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzRErKwNshR
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**BOOM**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTxAAVuW1y8
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBVBxMrbEOw
The two projectiles connected, but their crash was closer to the Bringer than to Pars. Still, Pars was forced to step back from the blast, and the now ashen air forced a couple of coughs out of him.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlnCCzq3ZuN
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"Pars!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7skfrqXqXk
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"Huh?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOp1Q406CUh
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtNM2w3sFhU
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvGURd0YP5D
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVSTnJIj7xP
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It was some kind of instinct, or maybe a habit, the way Dave split from Pars and took up his own opponent. Pars reciprocated, which he appreciated, though Dave had no time nor humility to say as much.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwRGjiCA6q
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzN8Ik6dY1n
Had it been up to him, Dave wouldn't be in the Pillar, fighting a circus of lunatics who wore gaudy garments. He'd likely still be in his store, crafting and staring at the pottery on his shelves. Imports wouldn't have come for a few days, but Dave was crafty and spent years on his contingency. He wasn't as proud of his works as those of others, naturally, but it mattered little when it was so fun.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIPayK2RS67
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcly4YdNUYJ
No, truly, it was that silence that he valued most. That quiet building where nothing but creaking wood and muffled chatter reached his ears, with the occasional customer. It would've been even better in this scenario. The worst he'd have to deal with was a barging Bringer, but his barbed tongue would be enough to deter them. He was sure of it.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpLHThciziY
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEQM1R7Oj7r
Though, as much as he'd like to believe that, he wasn't so stupid.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXU5pTNMAI1
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlAFKGkDBdJ
**CLANG**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8RsLfdFhmv
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Swords clashed and chattered. The other was steel, while dave's was one of clay, but molded and braced with mana. It was still, however, a weapon of clay.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5vu05LgIkl
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡciBaivxBPW
He looked at his weapon, a coarse curve where the gallant tine used to be and sighed. Had it been him from the past, it wouldn't be such a sorry show. The rigid structure dissolved into a mushy clump. He reached into the sack wrapped around his belt and took more clay, mixing it with the pile in his hand.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmRzG3t8xot
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX1n5wgta0D
The Bringer gave Dave no easy time doing so. He rushed forward, both hands on his longsword, and swung at Dave. Holding the clay, he threw it forward, and it mutated into a great shield which the sword bounced off of like a ball off the ground. The Bringer staggered, and Dave grabbed the clay, transforming it into a thin battering ram.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv5mnDQokfZ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY38mjr8fJC
**SLAM**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7gJWONlEM
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He ran and bashed it into the Bringer's stomach, who let out a breathless retch. Dave kept running, planning to pin the Bringer to the wall, but the bringer grabbed onto the ram and stuck his feet into the ground. Dave's advance was stopped, but that dismayed him little. The pole of clay retracted and morphed into a ball. Dave dug his fingers into it as it hardened, and then he swung it across. The Bringer barely raised his arm quickly enough to block it.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXyGncMAEcC
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9GvE82WXzL
Though, by the way he was sent to the floor, it would be a stretch to call it a block.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAwDWD1nXD
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYVLMu9NFfo
The Bringer tried to get on his feet but kicked him in the chin, sending him rolling. Dave morphed his clay into a sword and approached the Bringer with steady steps. With how much he struggled to stand, Dave was sure that he was done.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTXeIoFdPo2
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ433BDfhKrH
But then, the Bringer reached into his robe. A barrage of little knives flew his way, and dave couldn't morph his clay fast enough. He curled up and blocked what he could, and though it missed his vitals–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC6xYSMEuML
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"Ngh! Shit–!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhBRfP59g3i
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOIkLQn4ggz
A few knives scraped his, and another violently lodged itself into his leg. Dave stood up quickly and attempted to run, aching to finish the still floor-stuck Harbinger.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9P9u8ISt4
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But then–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBMoh94px26
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ121cbuZeuz
**BOOM**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd482Mj1FOc
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A ring in his ear followed by an eruption of dust, one that prevented him from seeing his target. Dave clicked his tongue and backed away, paying heed to his impaled limb. Seeing no better alternative–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUgf6ftEiX2
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFM4wUhZS5
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7gBbFWmFJ
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDM9z00sqp0
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Pars heard Dave's voice through the thick smog. He assumed he wanted to regroup, a prudent decision with the low visibility, but yelling would reveal his location to his opponents. He had to find a way to reconnect, or at the very least, keep his eye out for the Bringers.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuerhk4rFSh
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSNn4vErAcP
Though it was impossible to see, Pars knew that staying still was a death wish. He dashed back, careful not to go too far to avoid crashing into a wall, then quietly tiptoed around the parameter of the room. Where he was, Pars was out of the clutch of the smoke, but that made seeing inside all the more difficult. However–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJw7rbyNLss
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"Gah–! You scared me!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3RMnooZDaN
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4NR8nSZTVC
Dave burst from the smoke, exiting it so fiercely it rippled. The smoke began to clear shortly after, and the two men eyed the room for their opponents. A few seconds passed by, then a minute; nowhere to be seen, there was only one possible option.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJmnTdzvDK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLVCPmdELcF
"They're hiding," Dave muttered.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvvxbxsBvSz
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"Yeah. We're at a good vantage, though. After all–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQS4rKLGZIA
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"No, this is terrible."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVSOTC30AdZ
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Dave interjected with a rival statement, giving Pars a confused look.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDr3ay9H3O0
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"Of these four boxes, there's no telling which one they're hiding behind. They can wait there all they want and we can't do anything about it. We're the attacking party, after all."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuYh39osvvt
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaMRx0CFFE6
"You're... you're making a good point. Tch!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT32p0GtvXB
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG6KsdClIEY
Pars took on a defensive stance, raising his arms and darting his eyes from booth to booth. He looked at Dave for his reaction, but he showed no concern. In fact, he almost looked annoyed.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8YJvbhfrq8
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKMZGnTrbu1
"What do we do? I have a suggestion, but–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡANSBfL8VW0
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"No. No suggestions from you, please."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavt0a24tHI
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He put his fingers on his temples. Completely discarding him, closing his eyes, and locking himself within a chamber of thoughts. Pars was permitted no entry, no involvement, and no influence.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeJFVjRWZHt
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1F1e0U50gU
It was standard proceedings, as far as Pars was concerned. But something about it, something about this instance, made it utterly insufferable.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJ9u8RgvBn
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"Why not, Dave? Why not take a suggestion?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR40ggtyPHC
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoWSrrRc8QG
Dave's eyes twitched, but he still held his head.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDuYUVczs5N
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpTqlVK5xS
"Aren't you and I a team? Aren't we fighting while staking our lives? Fighting the same enemy!?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5d67py7qpd
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Still, no response.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8NRlocxudv
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"Can't you jerk out the wax from your ears and listen to me for once!? Why are you still being so damn stubborn!? Why are you–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFRX8KbquL
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"Because you're entirely incompetent."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡukBrRR1B06
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With a low, but stern tone, Pars' rant was cut short.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYaPOaT94DW
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ia8vWgADy
"Because people like you care too much for looks. Because people like you want to garner laughs and smiles but yield when the situation demands sincerity. Because people like you can't gauge to save their life. Like a tool, only useful when something pilots you."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZCiTkMGD1L
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhp2WInKQwq
"..."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkAYWitdISF
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"I can't deny your fighting prowess, but your idiocy makes it all useless. Look at this: your ridiculous need to use two crossbows. Your unsuitable equipment. Your sagging coat. Your dull knife. Your dearth of ammunition. Do you use such bootless tools just because they're flashy? All of this focus on image, and look at what good that's done for us. Look at the position we're in now."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgoJiZCbcZX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Ct0JDGU7G
"..."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5LQh5Xgs8g
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Dave stopped his speech. He sighed and grabbed a chunk of clay from his sack, transforming it into a heavy sword. He took a step forward, but suddenly stopped to look behind him.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFJGRfsO8a
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"What?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY2c9iToVmg
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Pars was still. He tried to move. Even his mouth would've done, but his lips couldn't open through the spiral of thoughts he'd been thrown into. Dave lost his attention quickly. He turned around and brandished his weapon, and seeing that, Pars gagged the words out of his throat.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡow2qO58RoS
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0bv0Ij1mCa
"...You think I'm doing this only for reputation?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzUzDC6baSV
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Dave didn't even grant him a nod, but his silence was affirmation enough.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBgc8CCRBx
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"...I see."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmiXEdhvQst
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He assumed a fighting stance yet again. Only, it wasn't held with stride and trust, but with shaking limbs. A pose done only as proof of effort; a pose done for someone else.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgemFla9LAL
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPX3IFnI5o2
Pars realized how pathetic it was. He dropped it instantly and pinched his nose, releasing a lengthy, laborious sigh. A moment's pause passed and he took a step forward. He grabbed his coat by its collar and slowly took it off, dropping it with a clatter. He balled his hands into a fist and narrowed his eyes at the room before him.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKTvCQSBUyj
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuOkQq9RqiY
"Maybe you're right, Dave. My get-up is a little ridiculous. The way I fight is a little strange– who am I kidding, it's plain stupid to someone like you. Maybe something has to change. Not maybe, you're right– something does have to change."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZoGXyt8Qs7
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡghwECxHWmd
He reached into his coat. He took out a crossbow, his knife, and his last bolt. He kicked the coat aside and loaded the crossbow. He had a view of all four booths of the room, and angles just wide enough for something to strike them all. He hooked the knife on his belt and held his hand out, spreading his fingers apart. Sparks began to form.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjGNAD4zhGm
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"But what really matters to me, is that I've missed the mark. I know you're especially stuck-up, but it's exactly people like you that I do this for."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxIw6b04BHZ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGfG1r2oJcV
A restless, pulsing blaze formed in Pars' palm. He held his arm up and split the flame into four.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9KiaaGsqyl
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ41rOgcqup1
"I want to inspire. I want to be adored. I want to calm people down just by being there. A beacon, to signal that everything will be fine. So, if I can't even earn your respect–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJ6Ycaxu0M
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu8uMsaTqD2
He slid his feet apart, reeling his arm back and aiming at the booths.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeKM6D7ivR
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu6JsoOHCuo
"--then there's no hope for my wishes!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRyc47AS3Zu
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He flung his arm and the flames followed, striking all four booths and engulfing them. The architecture of the building would snuff the flames out soon, but that didn't matter. Before even the paint burnt off, the Bringers soared like flies. Dave rushed forward, but before attacking, he yelled:139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe4uW5XKBR2
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSAfKsmRNbD
"I'll take the one with the cannon!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi5Mv9Im2VL
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"Alright!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUTvNx00Ex0
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Pars thus ran opposite of Dave. It was strange; they weren't any closer to working together, and yet, Pars felt satisfied. He had a kind of drive that warmed him and a feeling in his chest that told him he had taken the right step.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdHeUDyXwo
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3Q2HM4oJpD
He brandished the crossbow and ran at the Bringer. Pars lost all his worries– he steeled himself, to prove his words, to break through and shine.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWFcohSdJUb
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJYdqVRBgH4
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTjg7wLIE4a
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–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcHSIJR31BG
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He couldn't catch anything from this opponent when he fought the one with the blaster, but a sword-wielding man wasn't a riddle. Pars fought and sparred with dozens of them, so he still approached with brazen moxie. The Bringer, still running from the flames, didn't notice Pars hot on his heels. He took advantage of that; instead of a furious, direct sprint, Pars veered to the side and ran around the Bringer's trajectory. He came to a stop and turned around, brandishing his sword directly behind him, but Pars hid behind the bottommost booth, letting a single eye peer at the Bringer.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv1d0cpbWH7
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxhLFNYk1AE
He thought of firing his crossbow but that man was likely more armored than the other. So instead, he began mana expulsion and formed a cluster of earthen spikes. He moved his hand just over the edge of the booth and fired.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG9I8HK1lPS
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The man noticed the spikes instantly, moving to block with his sword. Pars' volley was too vast and quick for success. The spikes tore and scratched at his robes, but none of them wounded or penetrated. A great deal bounced off like the man was of rubber, and the ones that didn't were shallow in their piercing.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRZTMewAJ2N
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoUSnrhUeFi
Pars clicked his tongue and kicked from his hiding place, charging at the bringer. The bringer didn't challenge his approach but took a stance with his sword in both hands.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0OReLjlSH4
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Even though his dagger was hefty, it would be a sure loser in a clash with that sword. Pars ran his brain with every step, sifting through whatever options he thought of first. A direct approach was dangerous, a contest was out of the question, and Pars had too much skin exposed to dance and stand with limbs.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqLNKZ1BBZp
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Thus, he skidded to a stop. He flipped his dagger and jumped back, spinning on a foot and kicking the weapon with the other.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg4PwyMdEfM
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwwBp5IQbml
The Bringer jolted, and his surprise netted Pars a successful hit. His eyes widened when he saw the dagger embedded into his shoulder. Shallow as it was, it didn't matter to Pars. After all, such a flashy move managed to–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4qYw2GC4SQ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcoR8UFpLm3
"--No!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtT3FQSPh1P
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfmifLJoTFb
He hit himself up the head and bolted toward the bringer. That split second was enough for him to dislodge the knife, and Par's blade was thrown back at him. Its speed was too sudden, so he jerked his head as it whizzed by, chipping his ear and forcing a hiss.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXANXEgU7QE
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsZv1x2EzJH
Pars continued his approach. The Bringer reacted by reeling his arms back and swinging. It was completely horizontal, leaving no room for a reactive step, but–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLMbubhR2ud
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"Hyua!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuLL4syyaBc
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Pars dove forward to the ground and latched onto the Bringer's foot. The swing naturally missed, but now Pars was stuck in an unsightly position with no easy counter. The bringer violently shook his foot but pars lost the dagger to quiet it down.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtY7lKkBkPn
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However, he did have another sharp object.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiuJPfLq5wQ
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He raised his crossbow and stabbed the bolt into his calf. He pulled it out and did it again. There was resistance, but Pars' quick thrusts pierced through the shoddy leather armoring– an easy weak point, and one he didn't pass to abuse. But Pars' awareness didn't narrow with the opportunity. A few stabs were all he wanted before letting go and rolling aside, missing the hunk of metal that clanged the ground he had just been on.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5nsQdOOBvV
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyxDcRyKikB
He got to his feet and lunged at the Bringer. Unable to defend, the Bringer dragged his cumbersome sword as he dashed away, but it all played into Pars' plans.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkn2BlpaAoF
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQLT0P1VKL
Gripping the crossbow with both of his hands, he raised it and aimed the bolt at the hooded face. Through the shadow, Pars could see the white from his shrinking pupils. The Bringer jerked to block the bolt, releasing one hand to cover his face– but a bolt never came.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUrEig6Rvhq
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9tr6d6Tm0s
Pars lowered the crossbow and freed one hand. It was a foolhardy move with an immediate toll, but in under a second, Pars formed a mass of flames. Irregular in its shape and wavering in its form, he pressed the mass against the stomach of the Bringer. The Bringer only just began to move his covering arm. Pars felt inclined to smirk, but in that split moment, he resisted.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWMvvXs7EjJ
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And what came was–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4YhcZZ6Gmo
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**BOOM**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Ii5KHq3hy
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The blast seared his vision first. His body launched with violent spins afterward. A swift collision against a hard surface stopped his flight. He let out a leaden groan and rubbed his eyes before opening them again, but the aftermath was much more painless than he expected.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3IgycWxqQ5
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJBCMtHhNuU
Pars stood up. He looked at himself to assess the damage and found his skin black as charcoal. It made him jolt, but a quick shake of the arm revealed that it was a blanket of burnt fabric. He shook his head and returned his attention to the battlefield, but his ashen vision made it difficult to see far. He saw two figures in a duel– likely Dave and the other –but the third was–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGM6nE4tnOv
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"--oop!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZXH5QrZJUo
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNE4wVWrHsX
Instinct commanded his body to move. He jumped to the side but was still blown away by a furious gust. He stopped himself from rolling, noticing his knife nearby and scampering to grab it. After his snatch, he gave his eyes one more rub and observed the scene.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0gEPN4lsuf
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNoDjyrFuaV
"You... you're a sick jokester."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRlBtmGUg3O
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He lost the energy to click his tongue. All he could wage were weak words of wrath. Words that left with ebbing air, the panting of a hog before a gliding spear.
The Bringer from before had their robes charred, revealing a blackened plate of armor that covered his chest. But those details came secondary to his erratic nimbus of wind.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ15Dst3jqzG
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQbehxEcqv
Pars brandished his knife, ready to charge. He had no opportunity to, though. A bend of the knees was followed by a soaring dash. The Bringer turned into an arrow, and. Pars raised his hands to block the damage. But he wasn't hit.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvPfIUgosyK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqBTnGqvK5
A blast of wind erupted from the Bringer that cocked him back and pinned him in the air. His hovering body left Pars' mouth agape, and he had it shut as it was kicked.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwWHnvAR8TM
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYWIFZOiwJB
The kick wasn't strong. It shouldn't have been, because it didn't feel all that painful. But the ferocity by which Pars flew compensated for the painlessness.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFhwW3QNXn
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His head bore into the wall. His heartbeat rang in his ears and head, a frenzied demand that Pars responded to only through reflex. He felt a liquid trickle down and down his body, and he didn't have to wipe it off and look to tell it was blood.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJJcaXaz14x
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUyTZwOkuiw
"What the hell... what the hell!?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyYg9PoL0Pb
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnvpSZjKDVR
His knife locked within his palm, he eyed the Bringer. The nimbus was gone now, but the bringer had a wide and stretched pose and performed expulsion from all possible orifices. Any moment that coat of wind would cover him again, and in that moment he'd be struck with another gusting bomb.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9LUEs6twEQ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg1wwXX3Zy2
Pars grityed his teeth and wiped his brow. The blood was getting cold. If it was on any longer, he would shiver.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlZ19mtlKdY
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Though, his body took those measures far sooner than it should've.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwgeMNTi5iN
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB5lwvPhEqu
"...Heh."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vb5GUzTgo
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡysctDNT96w
He clicked his tongue and put his blade in the holster, creating a hunk of stone with a handlebar with his free hand. A crummy, clumsy cover– the only thing he could make before that Bringer flew again.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkTCMhQdU2l
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVIwtDkI83
–
–
–
Dave was pricked by the blazing booths. That heat reached his head like a sucker punch, and like a sucker punch, it was a blow that damaged more than the body. Though, it was clear to him that what was happening inside was irrespective of that.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡClLFWlpHra
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEXEGIQObOQ
He couldn't pin that feeling down. Not with the time he had, though that troubled him. Time wasn't a problem before for situations like these. What changed now? That feeling seeped through and danced on his skin. It had to be because goosebumps were forming.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIchfBBiOvT
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrc0HdjlWAD
**THUD**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBKxHUW8m71
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6xr1ErU22y
His clay sword clashed with the Bringer's cannon, letting out a clunky sound. The scuffle lasted for a moment until Dave kicked his foot. He struck the Bringer in the leg just hard enough to loosen his grip. Dave won the struggle but reaped no reward; the Bringer merely backed off the moment his weapon gave way.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl8PxJ2Pnla
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6kZwwRt9Kx
He scoffed at the result. A part of him had hoped that would be the end there, but he knew an opponent Pars struggled with would be no walk in the park.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80TucPOIQA
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDn1PWqpWsy
"Though I have to wonder–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUmxvAfw6en
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡphVAFwu3VM
He closed the gap with a swift dash and thrust his sword. The bringer didn't dodge the strike, but rather, blocked it with his forearm. The sword didn't penetrate– it nearly bounced off.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmxwZ8kZi9V
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ct1oECOIk
The sudden backlash left him wide-eyed and his stance awry. He tried a quick correction. The Bringer shot a cone of earth from his cannon, and Dave moved fast enough to escape with just a graze. But the top of his blade had been caught by the projectile.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvMotUqr0lt
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKRriMAbdJK
Dave stepped back and disassembled his weapon into simple clay. He tore the pile in half and created a small round shield in one and a spear in the other.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡetdEx1ljhk
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgkG7R3wDeu
However, after its creation, Dave realized that such a puny shield would only be a liability. Amending it was locked by the advance of the Bringer. Dave acted with his defensive arsenal at first, sticking his shield out and gripping the spear. The Bringer aimed his cannon and fired another drill of earth. Dave contested it with his shield, and though the force pushed him back and tore at his arm it was enough to stop it.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2TLCLsW0Lz
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCF76QUjZZY
The Bringer kept up with his assault. He forewent the cannon and rushed with an earthly dagger. Dave had a moment of perplexion, one that lasted just long enough for the Bringer to aim his launcher yet again. Close enough for it to reach, Dave simply stabbed his spear. But the Bringer stepped to the side and snatched the shaft.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡng65jn3tXt
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYv1UeUPMAI
With his movements constricted, Dave had an immediate thought: he let go of the spear and bashed the Bringer with his shield. Even with its dent, it was strong enough to shove him away, but by no means did it do any damage.
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7E6Wb8uFXn
"Irritating...!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJ8djqbFS8
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIHsy96vhgp
He dissolved the shield and picked up the spear. He grabbed the weapon with both hands, and though he was fixed to rush, he stood still. Dave knew keeping his distance would just give the Bringer more chances to shoot, but this was something he had to spare. Something dawned on him amid that fight, when his spear was caught and his shield became his weapon. It was a question, though when it gained form, it didn't appear as such.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwrUqJzUn0V
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVRugiIZEL
Dave didn't like to use spears.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtZQAXLFxaX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpVIjn3UXFu
"...Haaaaa."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPw13f7kLy6
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He released a tired sigh. He returned his attention to the Bringer, who naturally took advantage of Dave's pondering and made himself comfortable across the room. Dave charged forth.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgN02kJ6jlz
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz09rR6qcmK
It was strange of him. Back then, his versatility was the root of his pride. The crux of his proficiency and the agent of his title. An 'Officer,' he was labeled. He retired it long ago.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMOcBnsFPZx
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCnMQQcJOIh
But, he didn't let his skills lie and rot, and it was precisely for situations like these that he practiced swings and ran around the city. That he made those vases despite thinking himself scanty.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV1KhIR1Ryk
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That's what he always told himself, at least.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHNKGkQpQc
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**CLASH**
He couldn't help but see a bit of Pars in himself. It wasn't his bravado– goodness, no, it wasn't that. But it was of a similar substance. The root of both his and Pars' bizarre tendencies, an attribute admonished and attacked by Dave.
**CLANG**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpvdJ011Of
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh69IrR75Ny
Foolishness. It was plain human foolishness. And though it pained him to confess it, he was as much a practician as anybody else.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm8JyY5EzTr
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**CLASH**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2NUuWaRfxy
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7DR7DqekFp
Dave slid across the room, reeling from a blocked strike delivered by the Bringer's cannon. Though his body was untouched, his muscles twitched from the force. He fixed his stance and steeled his composure. He opened his eyes and gazed at the Bringer, then sprinted while forming a new clay claymore.
**CLANG**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWTawLEZK9j
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7wBy2wUOpf
The strokes of his arms, the swings of his blade, the stomps of his feet, and the sting of his wounds. Why was it that all of these, these things– why did they make him feel so much?139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNfgWS7oTK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PS6xn3jGm
**CLASH**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkwrDv8dQlj
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ67zV4T2iTj
Frustration, fervor, fury, ferocity–
**CRASH**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefKIKXEkVy
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xikqCOSHA
Adrenaline, adamance, anxiety, anguish–
**CLASH**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4icX0bTNUO
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKUHXAsEmo
His chest was a twister that forever picked new debris.
**CLASH**
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfy3VAZVKF9
Confusion–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGn4Iats7r
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzH2XBXUqd9
**CLANG**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Dn75yIwXV
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiqVR9hJ49p
Delusion–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcYkqU8ohZo
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWCuqpRjxJ
**CRASH**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvKUzcFVrWO
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6yx6snZzDJ
All lead to one conclusion:139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ5PCTEugnK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNg12WCzcap
**SMASH**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsVEj4za8M
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiLMuyc7kC4
Followed by the shattering of his blade, Dave rolled across the sullied floor, pushed further by a sudden gust of wind. The blast at that time was too fierce for him to block. He got to his feet, looked at his palm, and wondered if his blade truly was to blame.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡixbhrOQAYr
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQJjfdjekQ
"...No, of course it isn't."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8g65Ju5CWC
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXzqD8xXX3i
Dave had a smirk on his face. But he was a torn man under that expression.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR9BWHCyEet
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Q6TB8kTdw
Because, didn't he long for a more peaceful life? Is that not why he made that pottery shop?139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡik2RDV9cno
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEwJFLPR5Xa
Then why were these blasts of nostalgia laced with such regret–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYx7Gakhau
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**THUD**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gxB1Y8jVI
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A sudden force hurled Dave out of his muddied mind. He tumbled to the floor, striking his chin against it and prompting a thorough rub. He turned to see what had hit him, and found the coatless body of his teammate–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHoggR68LMY
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBvN4MlswCR
"Pars!?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0CC2eFTZI1
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4TXejvaUQn
"Ack... quiet down. My head's spinning as is."
–
–
–
The two men stood with their backs against each other. They eyed their surroundings, landing their gazes on their debilitating opponents. Dave still ached from the collision, and Pars didn't fare any better, but their stalwart stances still intimidated.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhKdJXANT0q
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHd9GKXqQr
"How's it on your end," Pars asked, his voice cracking on every consonant. Dave didn't fancy telling of his inner turmoils, so he told of his physical state instead.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ76Jto6dzZr
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8V5WX9uZrO
"Fine, but injured. Their tricks are starting to exhaust me."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD8Q8RXY07z
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcm71dRMRv
"Likewise. When I think I get 'em, they just pull another thing out of their ass."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk9fUtyxOB1
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsiunUro00
The Bringers began a steady approach. No flexing of their muscles nor narrowing of their eyes would deter them now; they had to think fast and act just as quickly.
"I'm getting pretty tired of these two, you know."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsUuBB9C1FE
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Dave sternly nodded at Pars' assertion.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtGD3eqSl97
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJmWO7MsVL
"I'm getting tired in general. I've been hit too many times, and I'm not built for battle marathons anyway. We need to finish this fast."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7SxVhHP7cK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz56MLBA73Z
"What do you propose?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDuVX1gaAwX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMvkWOHLPNC
Pars closed his eyes and took a deep breath.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoVwSgyishk
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSPWCQXNJfl
The truth was that he had nothing. He was enamored with the idea of cooperating since the beginning of this fight, but he barely had the strength to throw a punch at another person. All this fighting up until now only to prove a point. But Pars realized, in his battered and weary state, that only damaged his performance.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd1HE7KgZWx
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzwD5wAVHHC
To be competent. To be confident. To be strong. To be a man who inspires others. To be a man who saves the helpless.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPLRxVusA0S
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp0wga7tZ3B
It seemed like these were all contradictions. Nobody could maintain being that way. His heavy breaths told him so. His failing limbs told him so. It was impossible not to slip into poor habits, to make a fool of oneself, to fall into the mendacious hands of ambition.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLoLnUGbfii
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXcXiSwgDun
A part of him knew better, though. But that part was tucked away from the forefront of his mind. And in his weakness, Pars lamented only one thing: his inability to–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡib8jepyFaA
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZZRYpSIvX0
"Whatever we do, it would be... smart of us to do it together."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh1X9QV6GAR
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaL8En4TwQ1
"--Huh?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGQGbRNaEd2
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU7Sb1xWhZb
"It's loathsome to admit, but you were right. I was stubborn, and I can't refuse to tolerate you this time."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡogNWq5SLH1
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs0LzlT7rxR
"...Always backhanded, huh."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ80xtTKlIX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmITqKViu5Z
But Pars muttered that with an idiot's grin. To hear those words, and from that individual, from the person who sent him into such a mess in the first place. It almost made him laugh139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdBTCB4HM1
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxW4KIskrAp
"Just like the old days, huh? Alright, just give me a second."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXxl9HJcZKx
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ptkIYlkm2
"We likely don't have one."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCWPk5kocgl
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He locked himself in thought, into a zone of his mind that split his focus and sense of time. He opened his eyes so his instincts could at least defend a surprise attack as he turned the cogs of his brain. He churned and churned and hoped for a bright idea to spawn from it. Something came of it, but–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwZeAOgo9OD
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VKvhWuKCe
"It's gonna be an uphill battle."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgqvvfQUZQg
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMU2z2YJRU
"So nothing has changed. Go on, spit it out."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7mYBAXVIB1
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqdQjrPQbNe
"Well, if you insist."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKkREuQBiKe
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–
–
–
Dave and Pars reinforced their stances. They moved their retinas to the corners of their sockets and nodded at each other, then swiftly swapped spots.
"Go!"
Pars and Dave burst into sprints, charging at their respective opponents with nothing but their bare hands. The Bringers inched to challenge them but hesitated at the sight of their armlessness. That tiny moment was all that was needed.
Pars' opponent dashed back, but it didn't dodge any attack. Pars never made one. He kept sprinting and sprinting, and his ceaseless charge compelled the Bringer to keep backing away. His opponent eventually got his grip, because he planted his feet and brandished his lethal fists, ready to counter.
But, just short of arm's length, Pars lunged forward and tackled the Bringer. But not to the ground, because he made damn well sure he kept a foot on the floor. His right foot as an axis, he spun his body and released the Bringer.
The Bringer flew just a few feet away. He was completely unharmed, and only more cautious now. He dashed forward to hit Pars and struck him directly in the stomach.
"..."
His looming silence professed his query. Pars answered by grasping his arms, and with a toothy smile that leaked bile through its gaps–
"Gotcha."
**BOOM**
–A great gust of wind erupted from his palms.
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVe1M6DVLk
The bringer soared, rendered a bird by the speed that he flew. His attitude never decreased, he only moved further and further and further, completely opposite of Pars' direction.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbnJOFsduP4
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9GJJFX88v8
There, Dave sprinted from his pursuing enemy. His speed just outpaced the Bringer's own, a fact made possible only by his lighter baggage. He clutched his clay in one hand and shielded it with the other, darting his eyes behind him every other second to make sure he was at a comfortable distance from the Bringer.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsaczuMInJz
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKY93jGnFiF
And then, that's when he heard the explosion. All of a sudden, Dave skidded to a stop and spun around to face his adversary. The motion confused and intimidated his opponent, who slowed down initially. But he saw how Dave still hadn't conjured a weapon and quickly returned to his blitzing pace–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZD8QSe9pOd
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVQIf6QXiR
**THUD**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlLPerQD6nl
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And then it came to a halt. Or rather, it was a boost. After all, this burst of speed was impossible by ordinary, human means. A feat that made it appear as if Dave was being pulled toward him. But this speed came with a blast, and truly, what good would it do if it meant his feet dislodged from the floor?139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBo4HGMfL6L
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IhK7t67Xh
"--!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ13gd5lcqDX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIH9xe20Lxp
The two Bringers tumbled towards Dave. Dangerous dashing, utter discombobulation. The Bringer's heads hadn't moved an inch, yet it felt like they were closer to the floor than their legs. Flying and flying, but finally, they began to fall.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxlWAhQfLge
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFK30pu7e4
But then Dave put one foot down in front, and all their dismantled attention unified to that appendage. Dave began mana spinning, forming a tool out of his clay. A lengthy shaft with a pointed head whose tip grew thinner and thinner, because this tool only had one purpose: to impale.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqdvLBBVJtM
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMtha4ZWyDS
Forgoing a spear, forgoing a dagger, and creating a great pole that would pierce even their plated armor. Within a second, their graves had been marked–139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbHB82h7fln
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFc5pBV0ZPQ
**SPLICE**139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyYFL8xbcGI
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And it was that clay that became their stone.
Dave glared at the Bringers. He couldn't hold them long; his paltry tool was a terrible skewer. He released the two to the ground.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAIBN7oqy36
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwT7gBqEZIA
"I missed one."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡURPyngqLDK
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjlbA0WubQ
He took the end of the shaft and quickly transformed it into a sizable needle, then thrust it directly into the neck of the other. Then for good measure, kicked the two away so their sides touched the floor. Stuck together, bleeding together.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe7HTY4hSBJ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkIGqvqCKhG
At that moment, strangely, Dave wondered if they were good friends.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMMb2cmLZ8u
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQP07CFk8CR
"Hey!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3t1BnXIud5
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6TZEx14gcK
The voice of Pars roared from his side. He turned his head and saw him clutching his ribs, panting once he came close.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWClEd8xtV0
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7hAMENrB3
"Nice! You really got them in one hit."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxAXJJNCoR
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡipNJmsFVK1
"Of course I did. That was a specialty of mine."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpBH8DnbjEF
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwxER4TRvWU
"Well, it's as you said, rust can make anything dull."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb7w4JEhgVN
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEv1dIXqurS
"I never said that."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLi8N0jqGQ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTdF9bscm3h
Pars turned away from Dave, looking at the two new corpses on the floor. He had a smile on his face, but it wasn't one wrung from the joy of victory but from the ability to still breathe.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzuh2pFVG2S
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGL2CUhYit9
"It looks like working together was all we had to do all along."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlGmSf35MhF
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQVzhGM4UQ5
"As if. It was your weakened state that let him underestimate you."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj2TGtF3N8S
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMdIPIgqZrp
"...Are you saying it wouldn't have worked if I didn't get my ass kicked?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nLOKlh8dR
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ10hqp5L8PO
To that, Dave merely raised his hands and smirked.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGacZJSrWaV
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUICUwQJ6wQ
"Haaaa. Damn you."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nsf3FofUE
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjEH2MpVhR
Pars plummeted to the ground. It was clear that his legs were failing, and all those beatings were catching up to him.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqO6Uh1psDi
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhcM3mAUIHt
"They are dead, right?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1NoyIPH4Lb
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3dRrOTBPyE
"I pierced one's heart and slit the neck of the other. If you doubt that, you can confirm it yourself."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEQxBh9SRqR
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcAaY6mgu7j
"I can't muster up the strength to stand. Seriously, I might even pass out."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtPscBYrvXF
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpGk5CywjFa
"I–"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo8CyBcYkRL
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUtANZUk0mh
Dave opened his mouth to offer help, but a sudden wave of pain told him that carrying a live body would be practically impossible. So instead, he sat on the floor.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSdXlLVLju3
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHnzKlMufeR
"Huh?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0FPKPh8qX
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwxqOaVwPD
Pars looked at him with a raised eyebrow. David replied with one of his own.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9BLXiRiqmP
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCHKtsH3eVv
"I thought you would leave the room. Not join me."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW6PSoWSGGA
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7dDX19td3H
"And leave you here by your lonesome? Why would I do that, anyway?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ24uWFMe32P
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzEHexKri37
"Well... there's bodies we need to bury now. Or at least tags to be collected."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn4BxW2shcW
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7SC2ukIKeS
"That can wait. I'm too weary and weak anyway."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm4MebTCQAI
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"Oh... yeah, that makes sense."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdeP6mxGbKP
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The two men's gazes rested on the bodies of their enemies. It was gruesome, certainly, but their heavy robes hid any trace of their humanity. It was akin to being around a fire rather than a couple of corpses.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOaNDWDIpY
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"Do you think everyone else is fine?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszCfRSBG2E
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhjIDc5zk3u
"I don't know about the ones above, but the ones below are likely well. These two were exceptionally difficult."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWylWq1kgTk
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL1GcCyXW1z
"Huh? And what about Lola? She took on an entire Harbinger!"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjG85Ch6MDI
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3bt8O7uNSB
Dave tilted his head and stuck his eyes to the ceiling.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHM0mZsIB33
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQHPoLaqFfh
"She wouldn't falter so easily. Not in this situation. And I know, because we haven't seen that Harbinger's face yet."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZ9wqRanZQ
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5BzataatRp
"You raise a good point."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv2QMbprgkb
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"But, I must admit that you impressed me, Pars."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRZloMw8F5I
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The sudden shift of topic caught Pars by surprise.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXOYXZERCxt
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmgK2JaM1T
"H-Huh? Hold on, where's this coming from?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26Z7jjbgq5
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBlpaAgqFZ8
"Nowhere but my sincerest thoughts. I didn't think you had it in you to abandon that charade."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xBQ0xYdCH
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelVKVE8DxZ
"Ha, abandon?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcFr2vP8kx
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYGvT2IMgnc
Pars' gaze sternly hardened.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1sfGtUEqRn
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNa4ovNh3JT
"I didn't abandon anything. And this isn't a charade! I don't want to be a man who inspires just to get girls or something."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk7psoCKcaA
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFhbqya0qiK
"If you were, it was backfiring."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsBwr06kEny
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEUJoQSKimg
"Harhar. Very funny."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfjetTjXXmM
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIi9Ap5nJ99
Pars rolled his eyes and continued speaking.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgu9nKWNy69
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXEO8DuuxfQ
"No. This? This wasn't working, you were right. But I can only give up so much of my attitude. Otherwise, the kids of this city will look at me as just another cranky soldier, and the members of our force won't have any beacons."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiq7QnHm7Xo
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jXwLAh4LV
"Aren't you conceited."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Ld0OLi6EM
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"You think it's arrogance?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHWm4dp8CJ
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Pars began to stroke his chin.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXbYZD1NYYC
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡExpgJNn2i4
"I don't see it that way. Greatness inspires, y'know?"139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtyn6NVC2f
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRSUH8GRqvS
"But what you want isn't just greatness."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs0rBGCuzz9
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffOmdiCrBp
"...Yeah, you're right."139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dudRb14OZ
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Pars slacked his arms and stared blankly at the Bringers.139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNHndJFZy7A
139Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKwJSpUeO2Q
"I guess what I want, is to be a hero."
