Page 224 of Rangers Mountain Rescue

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The tension in his shoulders.

The way his head keeps turning.

The way his hand never strays far from his weapon.

He’s still in it.

Still ready.

Still expecting more.

And somehow…

That steadies me.

Because I know—

Nothing is getting past him.

Grandpa stumbles slightly beside me.

“I’m tired,” he says again.

“I know,” I tell him softly. “We’re almost there.”

Even if I don’t know if that’s true.

Even if I don’t know wherethereis anymore.

Because nothing feels safe right now.

Not the Tavern.

Not the farm.

Not even this land I now call home.

Everything feels… exposed.

We reach the edge of the property.

The Tavern lights glow ahead.

Warm.

Safe-looking.

But I know better now.

Havoc slows.

Turns slightly.

“Hold up.”

Everyone stops.

Instantly.

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