Chapter 119: What Happens in the Cave Stays in the Cave

AARYN

It was a relief to reach the cave and find most of his strongest friends there. The disformed were generally overlooked by their tribes when it came to roles of significant responsibility, so they often had time on their hands. The cave was where they congregated to get out from under judgmental eyes. Or just because they were bored.

It looked like either the bigots were out in force today, or everyone was bored. When he walked in, the cave was bustling.

Myrth saw him first, bouncing up to him, her tiny frame always making him feel like she needed to be caught and held in case she fell over and shattered. "Where have you been?" she chirped. "Your friends are eyeing your chair." She tipped her head to the crowd at the back where some of Aaryn's friends were clustered, laughing, near his seat.

"Good to see you, too, Myrth," he said dryly. "Still trying to stir up trouble, I see?"