30: Sharing is Caring


    “So this is what happened.” Kou touched his chest, where the skin was still fresh and rosy. “We have already informed the authorities and given them all the evidence. On


    “Did you know this was the second attempt of an expedition by this science group?” Kou said staring out of the window and Marcus shook his head. “The first time we meet a swarm of small nasty things that tried to eat us. The security group ran away leaving the civilians behind. I was the only one who stayed to defend them. Four people died before we got out. Of course we burned the names of the bastards who ran away but it matters not.” Marcus was shocked to hear this but remembered a tense atmosphere between the scientists and the security group. “This time nobody died and nobody ran away.” Kou smiled but it didn’t reach his eyes. “But we might be cursed.” Now both


    “It is not for me. It is because of Achara.” Kou said. “I’m a supporter I know that and I really enjoy it too. I never wanted to be leader…” his voice trailed off. Than his eyes focused again. “Achara does not show it but you being so strong really hit her hard. You


    M


    With the money from the sells of the bandit gear Mason payed Marcus back,


    To Marcus surprise Mason took out a cigarette, quickly checked for Ms. Russell, and lit it up. “A few years back I would have agreed with you. I was quiet proud of my abilities and performance and I never bought into the whole “second rate” damage dealer shit you read in the forums. That was until I saw a high level Elemental Mage in action.”


    This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    “I realized I will never be able to compete with something like this and started to look for alternatives. A hybrid style is more demanding but it offers more options.” Mason said and added “If you like, we can go a round or two.” Marcus was happy to do that. “Just don’t go overboard” Kou warned them, they wanted to move


    F


    They went back into their starting stances and the dance started anew. Marcus was extra cautious and Mason danced around him with his superior speed. They clashed several times and suddenly Marcus felt pain rushing through his left arm. When he looked at it, Mason’s knife stuck in it


    “You know about Penetrating Arrow? It is based on our ability to harden materials for a short time. I can do the same with these knifes. They are extra thin and in the hand of the average person they would break or dull quickly. But in the hand of an Arcane Archer who knows


    “Yes don’t tell Kou, he would be mad.” Kou stood at the door and watched them with his arms crossed. “Oops.” Mason said. “It will be alright Kou. There will be no problem tomorrow.” Marcus tried to defuse the situation but Kou had a wolfish smile. “


    “


    “Your abilities are scaling with vitality don’t they?” Mason said and Marcus felt caught and panic set in. Marcus turned without saying anything but the other man continued. “It is the only way this is possible. When do you intend to share this knowledge with the rest of the world? There are a lot of Fighters out there struggling.” Mason did not wait for answer and walked towards the shower leaving Marcus behind feeling like an ass.