Chapter 53 - Dragging Dead Weight
Everyone had recovered, enough, at least.
They couldn't afford to wait any longer. The journey had to continue. The challenges ahead were still overwhelming. Dozens of monsters scattered through the Rift. And beyond them, the looming question of how they were supposed to take down the boss monster at the heart of it all.
But at least, one small victory was theirs.
They'd already defeated a mini-boss, something most Tier 3 Rifts didn't even have. That alone gave them some breathing room. If the usual structure held, there should only be one true boss left now.
Tave adjusted the straps on his back and carefully lifted Fang. He secured the wolf against him, making sure the creature was settled comfortably. Fang stirred, letting out a soft, low woof, his breath slow but stable.
He was healing. Faster than expected, maybe.
Tave sighed, then turned toward the edge of camp, toward Orion, who was already on his feet. Tave walked up and gave a small tug on the chain connected to the man's restraints.
The gag had been removed, unfortunately.
"You fucking useless trash!" Orion spat instantly. "You think I'm some prisoner?! Let me go right now, or you'll be the next person I kill after that bastard!"
Tave exhaled slowly and turned to him with a shallow bow.
"Forgive me, Lord Orion... but as you yourself said, I'm just a worthless piece of trash following the orders of the current leader."