When Thales stepped on the sand to drag his exhausted body towards them, most of the Royal Guards stood up straight and waited for him with stern expressions. They were filled with awe-inspiring respect for Thales.
Only Zakriel, who sat furthest away in the group, turned his head around towards Thales at a languid pace.
With each step he took on the desert, Thales brought up sand; his feet sank into the sand with each step he took, but every single time, he would break free with all his strength and take another step forward, just as he always did.
Finally, Thales stopped before the group. He quietly watched the disheveled and dejected looking Royal Guards.
'It's these people…'
Quick Rope's eyes sparkled as he struggled to eat a biscuit. He quickly scrambled to his feet, pointed at himself while in Thales' line of sight, and put on an obsequious smile that said "Hey, it's me."
