Normally this would not be such an issue for me, but I have to consider, for once in my life, the welfare of someone else, a very important someone in my life. When I looked over her, as she lied in that flat, desolate plain, I saw the curious red and purplish marks about her neck.
I looked at my hands. Very similar, indeed. And the confirmation came when I brought Bailes back into consciousness. The spike of magic overcame me, and I remember nothing of the raving monster that was determined to end her life quite readily. Only her skills stopped me.
We bickered on the way back. I don't think she quite understands where I'm coming from here -- the last thing I could handle would to be to hurt her. I could not bear it, I'd rather die myself -- and I'd make that sacrifice in a heartbeat -- then know I could do anything to her.
And this is my problem. I'm vulnerable now. Ciro has a way to get to me, and a threat that I cannot plan for, nor do I know how to overcome. His foul spectre lurks over the horizon, over those mountains, that small village...
Damn you, Cirophsoph. If I must kill you myself, and die doing so, it will be done.
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