Part 311: Ricken B

Hey, Panne!

Curses. The whelp.

Phew, that's a relief. I looked for ages, but I couldn't find you anywhere.

I was hiding. From you.

Sheesh. Why are you so mean to me? What did I ever do to you?

Nothing yet. But you will. In time, you'll learn to hate and scorn just like all the others of your kind.

No I won't I'll always be your friend.

You say that now, but humans change.

Listen. I used to be bullied, too. I know what it feels like. In my hometown, the local noblefolk always picked on my family. We were nobles too, but we'd fallen on hard times. The other families really hated us for that.

.....

Panne, I know you and the taguel had it way worse than I ever did. But my father said we had to keep our pride or else the bullies would win.

And if there's one thing I hate, it's bullies!

Your family problems have nothing to do with me.

Er, yeah. I suppose not.

And frankly, I'm tired of you following me around like a lovesick puppy. But if that's what you really want to do, then fine. I give you permission.

R-really?

Don't think this makes us friends. Follow me at a distance. ...And quietly.

Brilliant! Thanks, Panne! Okay, I've got a few more questions...

*Sigh* This whelp only hears what he wants to hear...