Deadly Encountered

Without another word, the inquisitors retreated the way had come, heading for the city not a mile distant. The moment they were gone, the strength left my body and my tail went limp, a desperate, relieved sigh escaping my lips. After expending my mana during training, I couldn't have mustered enough to defend myself, not to mention the entire squad of recruits. I could have summoned Fable, but I had no idea where he was or what he was engaged in. What would I have done if he hadn't been able to come?

Solim stiffened as I slumped against him, my head resting on his chest. The cool steel of his breastplate was hard on my cheek, but his warm presence soaked through, comforting me. He shifted, awkwardly, and hesitantly wrapped his arm around me.

I didn't have to look up to see him blushing, nor did I have enough strength to care. He was a man, and such intimate proximity with a beautiful girl only a few years his junior was undoubtedly a little overwhelming.