Page 307 of Psycho Devils: Aran's Story 2

“But why is it enchanted?” John’s voice shook with anger, but he spoke tentatively like he was afraid of the answer. “What does it do?”

“Nothing,” I lied in a monotone voice as I rocked forward and pushed myself into a standing position.

All three of the kings lunged forward to help me.

I slapped their hands away.

“Don’t touch me.” I stumbled and slammed into someone’s sharp elbow. It knocked the wind out of me.

A growling noise echoed.

In my peripheral vision, flames shot higher into the air, or were they on the ground? Everything was warped.

“Be careful,” Malum barked.

I slapped at him. “Don’t touch me.”

My head spun.

It was hard to tell the ceiling from the floor.

“Need to get dressed,” I mumbled as I staggered toward the bathroom but stopped and squinted in confusion at where the door had used to be. Where had it gone?

Behind me someone punched the wall.

Someone else swore.

Hands grabbed at me, and I shook with annoyance as I barked, “Don’t touch me.”

Pain was lighting up my neurons with every step, and it was too overstimulating.

I needed darkness and rest.

Time alone.

I needed death.

An enchanted voice boomed, and I jumped with surprise. “All students and legions must proceed to the great hall for an announcement. This is your last warning. Anyone who does not arrive in the next five minutes will be punished. Severely.”

Panic filled me.

I shuffled through my cubby with desperation. Where were my underwear? I only had one clean sweatshirt, since the servants weren’t allowed to enter after competitions.

I tried to pull the sweatshirt over my head, but the stitches littering my back pulled tight, and I swallowed vomit.

The feeling of detachment intensified.

I swayed on my feet.

What was I doing? Why was I freaking out? Where was I?

I needed to lie down and rest.

“Here.” John grabbed me as I fell forward. “Let’s get you into my sweatshirt. It’s large enough that it shouldn’t touch your wounds and will be easier to put on. I wish I could clean you up in the shower, but we don’t have time. Is that okay with you?”

I nodded in agreement.

I didn’t know what he was talking about, but I was too tired to try to understand.

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