You’ve got to run.
You’ve got to—
Except, suddenly the wind falls silent.
You blink.
The tornado is…gone?
“Hey, bastards,” growls a cold voice from behind you, and you turn slowly to find a dark figure crouched at the peak of a nearby roof, his shirt billowing in the remaining breeze as he holds up one hand, a dark cloud swirling around it as if he himself took out that tornado. “What the hell do you think you’re doing with my human?”
Ziros!
Ziros is here!
Unfortunately…the skaddler is also still here.
And it takes a step toward you, letting out another reeking snarl, teeth gnashing.
43
The Hot Guy Works Out
You
Ziros! Ziros is here!
Somehow, he’s found you!
You feel lighter at just the sight of him, more confident than ever. And strangely…just a little bit like showing-off.
After all, that sword isn’t just a little letter opener anymore. It’s full size, and you’re ready to show this skaddler who’s boss.
You hold the glinting blade at the ready as the rain lets up, adrenaline pounding through your heart as the skaddler advances.
“Take this!” You shout, lunging for its scaly armor as it roars, teeth gnashing.
A flash of blinding light shoots out of your sword, blasting the skaddler—and sending you careening backward.
“Gotcha,” growls a familiar voice in your ear, and your heart skips a beat.
Ziros.
Ziros caught you before you hit the ground.
You twist to look at him, your face inches from his. His piercing blue eyes flash as he stares back at you.
Softly, you whisper, “You found me.”
Ziros snorts.
“Of course I did, human. What do you take me for?”
For a moment, there’s only you and Ziros, a gentle patter of light rain echoing on the wooden boardwalk where he stands.
Ziros leans in closer, his arms warm and strong where he holds you against his chest.
And there’s a strange, deep sadness in his eyes when he looks at you.
