He stands straighter, asserting, "I can vouch for this man, and I will not kill him. If you must, take my head and let him go."
Gasps fill the crowd.
I peer closer.Who is this man to him that he's so loyal?
I question, "You would rather be killed than kill him?"
Sean affirms, "I would rather you attempt to kill me."
My lips twitch. "Attempt?"
"Do you believe I'd go out without a fight?" he challenges.
He killed thirteen men and earned his spot.
It's his fault this stranger is here.
It's also a security breach.
Sean led him here.
Why do I not know who this intruder is if he's so important that Sean would die for him?
I finally make a decision. I smile and warn, "Those who vouch for the uninvited choose a different path."
Sean blurts out, "I don't understand what that means."
I can't help but take another look at the intruder. He's got the same consuming expression pinned on me. I curse myself for looking at him and turn my attention back to Sean, challenging, "Are you sure you want a different path, Sean O'Malley Jr.?"
He nods and shouts with conviction, "I vouch for this man."
The crowd gasps.
Good choice. It would be a waste to kill a man who looks like this.
It's not just his looks. It's how he holds himself up in the line of fire.
What am I saying?
The path will now change.
What will the Omni say?
Will I be blamed?
What's done is done.
I snap my fingers toward the stranger.
The men release him and push him toward Sean.
I take my time and give him another once-over. Unable to stop myself, I praise, "At least you vouch for a man who seems to have…" I tilt my head, letting my eyes wander, and continue, "Shall we say, benefits for the ladies?"
Sean reiterates, "I vouch for him."
Who is this man to him?
I step back. "Then he's your responsibility. Go home, Sean O'Malley Jr. Heal. Your bid is secure. But remember, you've selected another path."
