65. Ollin
Ollin
This Warrants Further Investigation
My head rests on my paws as I scan the forest. Unable to decide if it was a good idea or a bad one that I got this cabin for them. I focus inside, confirming that each of them are breathing.
My phone vibrates beside me and I glance over and read the message before it vanishes.
Warehouse empty.
Epic explosion of magic.
A series of pictures of the destruction come in. So Thea had a meltdown. Is that how they got out? They were rather vague on the whole situation.
Want us to check anything else?
I exhale sharply. Someone needs to invent a phone you can use with claws. I shift to human quickly and text for them to scan for any other magic. Then sit naked on the steps as I wait.
Very dignified, Ollin.
Inside someone’s breathing changes. They’re awake. The bed squeaks and heavy footsteps sound even as they try to be quiet.
Benson.
Bathroom door shuts. Pee.
I should probably stop listening.
A gasp. Hurried footsteps.
“Thea,” he whispers.
She wakes and they walk to the other side of the cabin.
A lamp switch.
Another gasp.
“What does it mean?” he asks her.
“I–I’m not sure.” She pauses. “I didn’t think you were that close to death. I’m so sorry B.”
“You think I died?” he asks.
There’s no response for a minute and I’m tempted to sneak to look in the window. Instead I keep staring out.
“Can you cast an illusion to hide it?” he asks her.
“I can for now,” she tells him. “But we will need to figure out a permanent solution for when I die.”
My heart stutters and I’m on my feet.
When I die?
“We will stop it,” Benson says, his voice full of resolve.
“Don’t worry about that now. I’ll figure something out. Can you craft something?”
“Thea…” He pauses. “We will find your Lazlo and stop your death. I promise. You won’t die again.”
He moves, she lets out a content sigh. A hug?
“It’s fine. We can talk about it tomorrow.”
They go back to the bed.
My phone vibrates and I look down.
Signs of magical artifacts used.
Contacting The Ringed Hand for assistance.