Hours passed slowly, and Mannik sat wrapped in the furs stiffly. Everything was confusing. It felt like a lifetime had passed since he'd woken up this morning. He would have laughed if someone said he'd have a woman from Above laying in his tiny shelter.
Eventually, the girl's breathing evened out, and Mannik was able to at least close his eyes. Rest still did not come to embrace him, however. He listened to her tossing and turning. He resisted the urge to get up and wake her. He was no stranger to nightmares, although he'd never admit it, and especially not to Adelmar. He had killed, stolen, lied, done all manner of deceitful things. How could they not haunt him?
Eventually, Adelmar gave a small cry, and Mannik couldn't resist shoving the covers off and striding over to her. She was facing the wall, so he had to lean over her awkwardly. She was awake. It was too dark to see her face, but her breathing was too quick to be sleeping. He dug in a pocket, finally pulling out an old handkerchief from Above, and handing it over without a word. Unsure what to do now, he sat next to her, giving her back a hesitant pat. He felt like screaming. Was he seriously trying to comfort this girl who embodied everything he hated? What was wrong with him?