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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVYHlx6nuaz
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVDyDndB509
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBkoA9m31wM
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUAzKJC9V8R
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1e56ttD4a7
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What was truly worrisome, though, was the lack of Bringers.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB3olL7V5vG
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡShj36Fee7O
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw4ehZviGpU
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9IYudPlu0
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLwHVYnkVNh
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡniBEP0UifD
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5CXiUshKoP
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"Exit's here! Let's roll!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvdCABmMg5F
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU6vmCiz4JK
I had a perfect line of sight from where I stood. Pars' forge ahead, and the sudden figure that sprung from a blindspot.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgiFERTZhQL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwH5tCcMK8t
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFogv6WBdM
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡksZY4vZ0vw
**BOOM**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3uXDiEY5G
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM3NTQId86R
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmPpay3XGsU
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"Ack!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPeHzQzUZeM
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7jRSvsLOT
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKRfhh18ca
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXBxNwifQI
The room was a catastrophe.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4RXwE0s4A
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3zqaQZvZr9
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJiEtXwEmz
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOsvpaYMVDZ
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ66JK7HIIAr
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwaQjzumCj5
"Everyone," he shouted, "if you can see, help the blinded! Get a move on!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDSgUotFAVo
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTlhd3TDn9
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEmPXmzoawi
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqcRYMVR7ZM
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu5vmhQxWX2
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPb5L1geHiv
**STRIKE**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMnJo03wI9Z
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–only to be immediately interrupted.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDJvTqhTl4u
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡegrV5qWfmd
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2kykf7oRu8
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF0uOwwVuO9
"Stop standin' still kid! Move!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZQ4Hvt3tQD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhajQs72oO
Without a second beat, I scurried away. I continued mana expulsion, partially out of instinct, and weakly lobbed a sturdy stone at the swords.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmTWJFltsQQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ6TIsP2oGx
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡarSFwPCheb
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0KR8dGwNsH
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYL2v6HF6Px
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdCmIswnfiL
"C'mon!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡocsPThH3kl
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"--Ah!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSlAxkCXhmX
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt0B4MAr8hC
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoogh2nQdh
I made no effort to inspect the ones who weren't moving.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwIfESF60kI
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–
–
–
What a moron.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYnma6vmP2v
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoByZqHFBD0
It was to be expected– it should've been expected. The signs were so obvious that he knocked himself for being so remiss.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1I7OiUEoyk
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyG3CraG443
A large room, utterly silent until the decisive moment. An ambush in a guarded building; what a concept, wasn't it?147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFIwpY0ptb
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCfCzNwsCPe
**THUD**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1DlcwIBA9
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"Ngh!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsmqYBcK6Pq
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoygnXb10bl
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡloA8Huncnd
"That thing on your shoulder's a real blowhard–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49wEuzs0gB
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnUYPnzCXsk
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4Y7LmUBsYD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUI1mgUCGVs
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMpDK6N6HK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNy7cuYh86
"--I should've known!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAp3CUF3MDW
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtrm2MMnfQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUwlsiBZc5
"Two against one, huh? I should've expected such dirty play, but–!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsx0WFkpK2K
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1HPNoZuaiV
Pars had a tool in his disposal to even the odds.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdCgUm2dGv
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLcNjDGzkV0
"DAVE!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5caBzgY3ks
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaPm5AKQHhd
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5A1gNeojqE
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOjrf92CgoI
"Dave! If you can hear me, I need some help!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOsVv2IqIaM
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf9GZol0kVZ
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.
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Gw0vgWiz2
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ35RogwUG59
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpgz0R1bT1
"Dave? How'd you get over there!? I just checked that place!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqsBWgt9YtB
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV9BXhlL0gq
"Shut up, please. From now on, talk only with regards to the battle."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyoFVQvPuX5
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqkXiI6bs7
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9godKzFFR9
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cJuv1S5Hs
"...Those are our first casualties–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡydr95pCQ3d
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJwsZ1NCv3r
**BOOM**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCioc9yOfNe
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6N6UP2fhF5
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGff2M0Pdd5
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr9K4CPIS59
"--Shit, I lost my focus! I owe you one!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0LwFHOYAaB
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7UC2VyMPME
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡELezrILeKI
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhiwHFMFEGM
"I'm here now."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5XsfdztPW
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxucErYVXmB
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVuNHj9fYpO
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ21m6Pk06kG
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And thus, he dashed forward, reaching in his coat.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7htfXrvStS
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTgMD8JcaHR
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnHG6ymgcuB
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrdbTwC3DZq
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsnp4MeC28R
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡciyX3ab9sz
He thought it strange that these were his thoughts right before the fight. Pars pushed them aside, but they already left their mark.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEGzNraf81Z
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhe8hDL2ZLy
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3BfqYXzwfQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgO68JiK7if
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbOR4vO73Xm
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0pNIx8J2jq
"Armor. Much like the others, huh?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsQhqzwY3pm
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0cAYaTTLPt
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa1jDslGFPW
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYgvHExqKK7
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlPtkrn3XYL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWf1corXjgu
One loud boom sounded throughout the room. The air around him, now dappled with cinders, guided the blazing arrow right to the Bringer.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbdQuvMEGpF
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But the Bringer's contraption fired as well.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXlVDOvsag0
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**BOOM**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwgIxFzbJyH
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2AVr4a5Q4o
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ2xJtDH88g
"Pars!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2K7YNlfaIx
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCRXRinfSbD
"Huh?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6BM6ltdPFt
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOe4vzhkAM
–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6QvvE4rqao
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhrR6vnNW6a
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNe2hDHN6T9
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdHotSuFaBK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsKAAIHXBm
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxQDvhS2G4I
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN9DF7ehIaX
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBGG4hJcOry
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡufPC5PE1bN
Though, as much as he'd like to believe that, he wasn't so stupid.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyXxHexKK7
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy7OLFN13J6
**CLANG**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKc1nsmWRiW
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZXngmJCgrK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX6rHMzvkcH
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFzTBylyP4o
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUkXPAhpsOs
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNIO8hmEC8V
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxnS2dFKyqV
**SLAM**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQNBqm2TKQh
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRAVCGdetkD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlJyiF9CP3
Though, by the way he was sent to the floor, it would be a stretch to call it a block.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4BwrLN1rg4
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMwL5kT3NQB
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG3QbMH8j4z
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAhjL3bYt8G
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbUJ9uE5SO7
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"Ngh! Shit–!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQBApoJkT4
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTJAtCSMPQ0
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmbz7JfcRpL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkwoDrD8RTl
But then–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkmPkpYX4Mv
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8AhsDAE7ly
**BOOM**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvCS0tRMsp
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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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFrrJgcQ19e
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpRfGVL4qX6
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj3BcQNOy1m
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHZAvZdpY4
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYf3aDDE7G1
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMW1qPlEoat
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfFSthOKya6
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKbX213bzSz
"Gah–! You scared me!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbkRwzryEq1
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡby2iUISrHH
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNN7KLRX6Ss
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj8cUUaqYgL
"They're hiding," Dave muttered.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqntrW7zGkA
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpfkoRcvQ5J
"Yeah. We're at a good vantage, though. After all–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2vTQFng3p6
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"No, this is terrible."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80HOu4y3kL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZk8Nu5SSj9
Dave interjected with a rival statement, giving Pars a confused look.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGLxPHq2iH
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0dPZugQPsT
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSrbEj52vMW
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDsEnxTMfAT
"You're... you're making a good point. Tch!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkvmPFOULwb
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7XJuGgw8Ls
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWIFNY9uaEG
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGbrgklsMot
"What do we do? I have a suggestion, but–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsBMPnbYyN
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSde0hz3DTH
"No. No suggestions from you, please."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEjzlU8vAAL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBjT9H0WzA6
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLkKLHuwaRQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEivFVm5N35
It was standard proceedings, as far as Pars was concerned. But something about it, something about this instance, made it utterly insufferable.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWayMAr2zBq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRE0fVYAnUY
"Why not, Dave? Why not take a suggestion?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡexWRN1kN5i
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80qKk8F6sd
Dave's eyes twitched, but he still held his head.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8blD8Ir72T
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqJ5RUvKfb
"Aren't you and I a team? Aren't we fighting while staking our lives? Fighting the same enemy!?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhywj45HUF2
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmhMmob9qPD
Still, no response.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡujm8uYPwSs
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtx7QPR5mNu
"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–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSMNdKa002L
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnVMGPvsRYB
"Because you're entirely incompetent."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWJ25DKWu2A
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With a low, but stern tone, Pars' rant was cut short.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjM99KEirCQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs6L3WU0W6e
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBWJ6FVW3Fm
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwMbRMpWbo
"..."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGFG4nUW3HX
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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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ5s9jkY06A
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYImys73gZh
"..."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnWp4RXUsK5
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ11tMPxufOQ
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNFmxunfoki
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"What?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3QGK4UTUS
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLQ1vtEi66P
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3V5bwzcpU
"...You think I'm doing this only for reputation?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZSsdxMiZmw
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6jLlgDNeB7
Dave didn't even grant him a nod, but his silence was affirmation enough.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoiQcx4bR8j
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgU85G0LUEN
"...I see."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXv6COj14z
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiWct1tgHzL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyv8MeDsSDW
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKrhAk2C8T6
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSkhhw2pqS
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeu3HbjYQ5s
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg8TgBJQIdT
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMOj9S1Bvq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBnZ8NBhJSZ
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTJTg7bBNWO
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQlZJPhBq56
A restless, pulsing blaze formed in Pars' palm. He held his arm up and split the flame into four.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcGAY4jYqFY
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPTlJsTho7X
"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–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl40TUEHmzt
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6M61ipwaUo
He slid his feet apart, reeling his arm back and aiming at the booths.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJWfXKsNzeb
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNaWLryef99
"--then there's no hope for my wishes!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTMGwdxiM2
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0NlDESn93j
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:147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDiGvJdZgSs
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpqk5GYK9g
"I'll take the one with the cannon!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtzybLi102
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaE8kutPCfa
"Alright!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTO8UFUbPCb
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSr1zzpsyu1
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK1VpbSAyd7
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrC8CkoKMt
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvu7dOksjOL
–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKNW65gCA4
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡABiH0Jqm4Z
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvisqRlepK1
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkUfcQSquO4
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJHr7rROrzm
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ55XAm5jLmS
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ijZLyfyBS
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIzo1mefHHq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDSyBqmHEeR
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTp6ni63bhA
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ30YRyjbADt
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjg0q7z24S
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡovKuXwKeB9
Thus, he skidded to a stop. He flipped his dagger and jumped back, spinning on a foot and kicking the weapon with the other.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFo66h9WZOX
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYfUgY8kK4X
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxuF8vs42JB
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUXxgieDpp1
"--No!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEitgZfHmCJ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvrgGIGDHpZ
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM2Ot6uR7Iv
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW63dhWy0l2
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡldxN5sx8ID
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGt4De2nGT
"Hyua!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxF3eAEdL8
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJGmCynlY3C
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS0lLdVXNRE
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However, he did have another sharp object.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW8c0WJEObj
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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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFfs4flURnY
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6WGcAGSTtl
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡir6ML5hacf
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrXuCidozVh
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPV1vGNbXUD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTbvqS7wH5N
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ouJ4THZoq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbUC50dDUMt
And what came was–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUgbXUTsnxP
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkEwUB7xsrR
**BOOM**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKPDa1XLld
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEMaG1TQ4UE
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlavGmHs6SN
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY5g5KLZFZW
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtcT6VqhQ3G
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqNd58sai0A
"--oop!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwGArkBPSWK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJrF55qxKY
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTXTEGBj8C
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdJ7dRztKXZ
"You... you're a sick jokester."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYoVGHBKpot
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ47O6nODMpr
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgSrsQJ9ZF
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡimSRd4mtVV
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKnmWqYHRoL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ34qwgwxUxu
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBckZfWq1of
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvCldBm2czs
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYia9A1ISMq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhyLIhigyRh
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOEjylgSD5
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCXqSdlEpm4
"What the hell... what the hell!?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxGrByq29b
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNnm6bmmRm
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYnKBWY0trO
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAsPiDQQPWk
Pars grityed his teeth and wiped his brow. The blood was getting cold. If it was on any longer, he would shiver.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXJqyEKN48D
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSpBBwUJmQh
Though, his body took those measures far sooner than it should've.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwJRsNfI1kr
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPTneNQwcvx
"...Heh."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡakQUkfZa7Q
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzFwLExQwU
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV3s0joDi5J
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmMkOdvdn4h
–
–
–
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq6DSic7dxp
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6HXaMaJyu
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9kjYMwvdUn
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv0FD5nFsMm
**THUD**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9iBuHEnKis
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡId9oXcL7dJ
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡynqUo2fOPo
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡexBXZF5RU6
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuL7OBNAHDi
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"Though I have to wonder–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgyuxcQBiTu
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr4o7UJBEzu
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx91u1Dca2T
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvk2knRYiR9
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rLew0xNcs
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr07Lahet4N
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FIQOwKVv3
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ3tlBH2qVz
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQLWlBeme7T
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIFBNWgsvkc
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHUG0r6qhrH
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMObeKRyQ7g
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.
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnezRjO2fLg
"Irritating...!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtHgTrueqKW
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0HNLBgoWG1
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5B4Df8nBLW
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5PUn5ypXkV
Dave didn't like to use spears.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkloewUFcZy
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"...Haaaaa."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXjhEGaNQ7T
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm4KPCXBSuA
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7hC6MtXmk
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9bGK85cS6e
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlzIo7xzzuR
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYamr7uzxMz
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWeaaN3R9FQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEttORmkl9n
That's what he always told himself, at least.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwOTlr1wPtq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR59x5YjXz1
**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**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTn3M5FhVVT
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpWLXWyQVxh
Foolishness. It was plain human foolishness. And though it pained him to confess it, he was as much a practician as anybody else.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjazWKnfPF
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgt23A0daWY
**CLASH**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBtPqabYZt9
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYHycrKvNn
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**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMbTj9Y33Dl
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoEmTFSivTa
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?147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlYETLdTlwb
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOGK3nkW1Lf
**CLASH**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpZTii96VPm
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1kcdwGXWX0
Frustration, fervor, fury, ferocity–
**CRASH**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7GFF2lFlty
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz6VkS1mjoa
Adrenaline, adamance, anxiety, anguish–
**CLASH**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡftMKfAzIok
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDucxSK5oiJ
His chest was a twister that forever picked new debris.
**CLASH**
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmTmqavFCvT
Confusion–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl9vG9JT6EU
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBJGr88TXXj
**CLANG**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Li83jAxLn
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugAyUFATW5
Delusion–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsc734TWj7
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEU1RDYHAhL
**CRASH**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugTIMmE8O9
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUaPesXp6JL
All lead to one conclusion:147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl5WcW981qx
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEI3N1IMRqn
**SMASH**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2g4eF5Vr5
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrAfeF9bVQC
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgZXj06sv1
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmwOOqrbVdM
"...No, of course it isn't."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ41k447oclD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHhkwFlfqFC
Dave had a smirk on his face. But he was a torn man under that expression.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxDDe9VeARK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFRF2LV8ONT
Because, didn't he long for a more peaceful life? Is that not why he made that pottery shop?147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡODzy3iMjzm
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdctDljwgpA
Then why were these blasts of nostalgia laced with such regret–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS2d44Vnvsg
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwa3C0vCrZV
**THUD**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfMgEcvVdgU
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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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWxnz93ivZJ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0bUS7manYA
"Pars!?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyWrdQ8RHV
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxHFhmBxXf
"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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡntlJaQow4d
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZR9g9g6IhN
"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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsU9Adr6Hr
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlf8TSuMeHT
"Fine, but injured. Their tricks are starting to exhaust me."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBlQQCeeSwK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlq6Ti8AkAy
"Likewise. When I think I get 'em, they just pull another thing out of their ass."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaM00G67dfv
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeUpTNQvoY
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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZmHNfMZnr
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWYuBfeOqro
Dave sternly nodded at Pars' assertion.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSURkuMIAGV
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnOxH62yI0
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUtQmpemcqL
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1R5TnQoPAO
"What do you propose?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz5x81ZQP2U
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS98puU5I3s
Pars closed his eyes and took a deep breath.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡADCgqvJhaE
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZKDbAhTTOW
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnhqezlyU6
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcmTudFExxj
To be competent. To be confident. To be strong. To be a man who inspires others. To be a man who saves the helpless.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT6PDK7TOdt
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8BHAxp8fbo
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfL2fgfPr1w
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL42U6QYtXi
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAfMrqWLmNA
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJo8X0rn77
"Whatever we do, it would be... smart of us to do it together."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnYpGvWMat0
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVhquoi5TzU
"--Huh?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqoqhkABVYF
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP7zH4JdzeT
"It's loathsome to admit, but you were right. I was stubborn, and I can't refuse to tolerate you this time."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkSWMC1p0B
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZWhKanclT
"...Always backhanded, huh."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdieV2LJUD2
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4I9xdX09yJ
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 laugh147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdfvHAV2Kpq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qjJ8x4SBv
"Just like the old days, huh? Alright, just give me a second."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8mxXgaVOe
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxZqDm5q0bv
"We likely don't have one."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrCpfiZdpmx
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5v6lZRjq17
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDDNJ1znADs
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ51PyCUgEmA
"It's gonna be an uphill battle."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlzj9SVsQLx
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5M4fun3c9
"So nothing has changed. Go on, spit it out."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIQZjwhLRws
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3OuATw1cXh
"Well, if you insist."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb7uu1npyVk
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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.
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlESouE4H0e
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ06Sz8xcsYv
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNOv1KjObSV
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpOsz9ddMF
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdyGmkmd3qM
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtnqp3xM1vd
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzpDNbuCKM0
**THUD**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAoQdXbIiE1
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMTW66jAD6E
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?147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTtWsvkTFBy
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZlJnoRdEV
"--!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDov35njXzQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlexwdkbqAR
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvawQGaEukG
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP7mjgZAAW1
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1ASDCGZ7pU
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡylTx41xYUN
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–147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtsMMEPp5eu
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡejZQUPhbsy
**SPLICE**147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ25qeJzaEmV
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVvJpZOuYrv
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs63EVXv2vQ
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRhAX48XyEn
"I missed one."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvMKBFqw92p
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Ipy4xPqF4
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡShpo1NeTaC
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsezsDSaqZh
At that moment, strangely, Dave wondered if they were good friends.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXPBpVev1Iy
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ51uQ5DhJH2
"Hey!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJahouLdiwY
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO25DZclzF8
The voice of Pars roared from his side. He turned his head and saw him clutching his ribs, panting once he came close.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8lE97MiXby
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgWNVX7Zh8l
"Nice! You really got them in one hit."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6O1Pd89eDB
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7TPTpOd6iE
"Of course I did. That was a specialty of mine."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXAn76emVlI
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdROrvo3oj1
"Well, it's as you said, rust can make anything dull."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEV4BH9EZkx
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhlUKTOtBv
"I never said that."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4OP0Wv7oAd
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavE1Ufj57h
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMWl07pMgec
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡug4JvuQOfs
"It looks like working together was all we had to do all along."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPUTinEK8Zy
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsETcMWuBK7
"As if. It was your weakened state that let him underestimate you."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡezst8BafMk
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx3CHqvQgFi
"...Are you saying it wouldn't have worked if I didn't get my ass kicked?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoAzP2nnkYU
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqNygLytIa6
To that, Dave merely raised his hands and smirked.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu19oDLSbDI
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQW5oFL5TB
"Haaaa. Damn you."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmnqZDII6wj
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYtm2yPlj5w
Pars plummeted to the ground. It was clear that his legs were failing, and all those beatings were catching up to him.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaiCnXAijVj
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ6EAL1Dea9
"They are dead, right?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCV23ou9ZUf
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡznbDBYDtDW
"I pierced one's heart and slit the neck of the other. If you doubt that, you can confirm it yourself."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuU6ZEmRMar
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrAzd2elLVW
"I can't muster up the strength to stand. Seriously, I might even pass out."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ621sfrpBdC
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQPnmjY8jMW
"I–"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5rzkJ1bGSm
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2tk0dkckxX
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDhdKLDFmY
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mXucQjCXX
"Huh?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMdULLQy1Ul
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlmpYIWZg6n
Pars looked at him with a raised eyebrow. David replied with one of his own.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfWJXt1qB9e
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ24OzmEmxMR
"I thought you would leave the room. Not join me."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdznrLdBX4d
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnMJ6TIilyV
"And leave you here by your lonesome? Why would I do that, anyway?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNy4KUgxBkC
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoih9HItItV
"Well... there's bodies we need to bury now. Or at least tags to be collected."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkZJBT9OmIs
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhm5nWeBaYr
"That can wait. I'm too weary and weak anyway."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgA9hLFuMcU
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfIM4xarPx5
"Oh... yeah, that makes sense."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQwtFiQjtsD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHJR4BbmySb
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.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd0ZF0IoSuq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2n6aLHWjI9
"Do you think everyone else is fine?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA0AoMKcphs
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8wwpWbK0Kf
"I don't know about the ones above, but the ones below are likely well. These two were exceptionally difficult."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡah3ClpIjVc
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLznRboB7LH
"Huh? And what about Lola? She took on an entire Harbinger!"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMfPZ48oihK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGviHPP2VcF
Dave tilted his head and stuck his eyes to the ceiling.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Jf9PixTTK
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNUzYQAM3Yc
"She wouldn't falter so easily. Not in this situation. And I know, because we haven't seen that Harbinger's face yet."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtwOTTbmwUE
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsETjOupg1C
"You raise a good point."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1b8QNL78M
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNzCm8FlDv
"But, I must admit that you impressed me, Pars."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdn2TOkdRkz
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvxlsGDEVmR
The sudden shift of topic caught Pars by surprise.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoojJ8G2zYG
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJ5UXj9KNE
"H-Huh? Hold on, where's this coming from?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwC25G9dko
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDkKJvfw7it
"Nowhere but my sincerest thoughts. I didn't think you had it in you to abandon that charade."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMfXHKC3CdE
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS1v2SDMa0p
"Ha, abandon?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHuYgTa362
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyDsmird1h
Pars' gaze sternly hardened.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMME4ctwy3
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVa3krtdzli
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKCYbjrZBOo
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU5N3Oy0Vc1
"If you were, it was backfiring."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDie8SQ6wJD
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnviInbr8vr
"Harhar. Very funny."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡetfgU7lyyr
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFjrLzQZGM
Pars rolled his eyes and continued speaking.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUHhvNBN0q
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWEeOemxYHh
"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."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXodrzlYuta
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡck7zhVXOep
"Aren't you conceited."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc7ajEkZBRC
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡswQVAu75ys
"You think it's arrogance?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxH7oGdur47
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2QqoG3kXex
Pars began to stroke his chin.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA69ZMemt5l
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡltTusVTHEX
"I don't see it that way. Greatness inspires, y'know?"147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFKekhiy6F
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDq26O8gr6J
"But what you want isn't just greatness."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIvCgHsYmOi
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzlORM9UMIg
"...Yeah, you're right."147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUlvlwUpLZC
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTMI8XrMzoS
Pars slacked his arms and stared blankly at the Bringers.147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ40iiGvyCRq
147Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8V7lPJQW0S
"I guess what I want, is to be a hero."
然後按「加至主畫面」