1: To Pass Along a Message

I could do nothing more than stare at Ern’s remains and the parts of her around my person, and all the blood sprayed across the room.

Finding the energy to stand on my own power proved...difficult.

I had no desire to do anything whatsoever. I abhorred even the simple act of thinking.

“Can you stand?”

The words came from Geoff, who had been missing until now. “You’re safe,” I wanted to say, but I could not muster the energy. I did not answer him at all. Even the simple act of turning in his direction was exhausting. But Geoff showed no anger. Instead, he placed a reassuring hand upon my own.

“I did not make it in time,” he said, the regret clear in his voice, “and I will accept any punishment you deem fair and just. But for now, you must prioritize your own well-being. I know you are tired, and I want nothing more than to carry you, but you’ve wounds along your back. Can you stand, my lady?”

It was only when I was made aware of my injuries that they began to throb with pain. Human senses are a fickle thing.

“It will do you no good to stay here,” Geoff continued. “You must stand, I beg of you.”

He pulled gently at my arm, and oddly enough, my body responded to his request. I had assumed that the shock of it all had left any action beyond me, but such was not the case. Even then, I could not tear my gaze away from all of Ern’s things, scattered across the room.

“Allow me to see to the girl’s wounds.”

The dignified, elegant words belonged to an older woman whose voice I did not recognize. Geoff, too, responde