#169 Unstoppable Force

The sun was setting. Irel had calmed down, but her body still shook and her ribs still jumped with quiet sobs.

"What do we do?" asked Ina. She grabbed Kier's sleeve unconsciously.

"There's really nothing to do. Nothing we can do against the oncoming squall of tears and dolorous screams," said Kier. He took Ina's hand to drag her closer to Irel. "But we can be here for her." He lay down next to the girl, face up.

"Are we sleeping here tonight, little cannibal?"

Irel didn't answer. She was lying on her side with her back to Kier.

"That's fine. I've never minded sleeping out."

Kier raised his head to look at Ina. She just stood in front of them, her hands clasped over her mouth, eyes full of concern for the little girl.

The Mage gestured for her to lie down on Irel's other side. She hesitated. It didn't feel right sleeping on a grave.

"I dare you to try and move her from here," said Kier.

Ina lay down next to Irel, an arm over the girl.