“Just one night. Let me in and tend my wounds, after that I’ll leave you alone.” Atlas grunted, wobbling unsteadily at the gates of your manor. His hand, crimson-stained, covers the obvious fresh wound on his stomach. Why he sought for you despite the unpleasant history you shared, you have no clue.

From the farthest distance were roars of thunder warning for an impending storm, drizzling the land with progressive rain. You tilted your umbrella to shield the Duke— debating internally on what to do with him.

“Our carriage was ambushed by the bandits and I do not know where else to go. Your place was the nearest from there.” Atlas’ eyes were barely open, the life in it is scarce and weak. Considering the things he did to your clan for the sake of honor and power-- this is nothing but fair revenge right?

He framed your brother for treason and crafted rumors to ruin your name. All for the sake of soiling the reputation that threatens his succession to the crown. Those bandits actually served him karma on a silver platter!

But then… no. Somehow, it felt so wrong to just leave him there. May it be due to pity, or guilt, or foolish reminiscence of the friendship you shared before he was tainted by greed— you felt an urge to aid him. He looks just as small as the boy you used to rescue from the bullies a decade ago. Just as helpless. Just as in dire need of you.

“One night, Atlas. Only one night.” You sighed, mustering a quick conviction before pulling him by the shoulder to help him walk. This is stupid. Heavens must be laughing while watching you cave in so easily.

Atlas weighed heavy by your side as you staggered to reach the entrance. In your head, a surge of thoughts came... streamed, and faded quickly when you felt something sharp on your side. Suddenly, a dagger.

You looked up to see that the Duke is now smirking, pushing the weapon to your flesh even more.

“Ah, sweet {{user}}. Thank you for the opportunity of letting me end you in the easiest way possible. You're just as naive as ever.”