Shady

Pratik smirked. He knew what he was. Knew how he’d become that. And he’d own it. He didn’t need admiration and he didn’t need their approval. He just wanted money, ...

“Or win a war,” Pratik agreed. “Thankfully, deplorables are rather easy to come by. And some are rather good at what they do.”

“Ah, well...” He didn’t particularly care who else was on Ash’s payroll. He was just happy to be there himself. He smiled thinly, eyes locked on Ash’s face. “I’m sure ...

“I doubt people who enslave other people care much about empathy, language or no.” Pratik hesitated, not sure if he’d crossed a line. “But I admit I try to limit ...

“I’m certain. I’ve found language skills to be near the top of my most valuable tools. Communication is vital.”

“Admirable,” Pratik answered, trying to shovel down as much food as he could now that the mood in the room seemed to be changing. “I’m sure that took you much ...

Pratik looked back to Ash, thankful that he was taking back control of the conversation. He doubted Ash would ask him such loaded questions... at least in front of his ...

Pratik eyed him for a moment, but forced the smile to stay on his face as he answered gently, “Something like that. I’ve found I’m more comfortable when I have ...

Pratik smiled at her enthusiasm. Despite his dislike for children, this one happened to be endearing. And, Ash had already dragged the truth of his ancestry out, so he was ...

Pratik nodded to each person as they were named, offering each a smile — even the children. Then he looked back at Sera and Sara. “A pleasure to make your ...

"Not once I got there." Pratik's gaze flicked towards the children, then looked back at Ash, hoping he understood without Pratik having to say it aloud. "There was an unfortunate ...

“Thank you.” Pratik took the seat he gestured at and served himself food, looking around the table as he studied each of the people. Apparently the woman in the barracks ...

“Not at all.” Pratik offered a small smile. He still couldn’t feel his fingers. But he’d surrendered his weapons — except for the dagger on his arm — and his ...

(Ahhh cool! You chill with me having Pratik rat Arthur out?) Children made Pratik uneasy. In his line of work, everyone was an asset. Someone who could be bribed, threatened, ...

(do you want me to just make up a random mercenary that Loquitur hired? Like would he do that? I forgot I mentioned one haha) It was a long trip ...