Liu South Section 6: Gregor's Story

Unfair? Why don't ya go ahead and tell me what's so unfair about this, pal? Got me all curious now.

The child tossed the fellow he grabbed by the collar aside, then sat in front of the one who spoke to him, bringing their gazes together.

Hrngh… I mean, isn't it damn weird that you can shoot fire from your fists?

Any ol' run-of-the-mill Fixer gets themselves a weapon from some workshop, and you think this is what's weird?

'Sides, I didn't use any of that fire magic when I knocked you flat, so what gives?

Magic, my ass…

Look, pal… You're just too weak, simple as. D'you really think it's a good idea to pick fights with random guys passing by, eh?

That's it! That's the damn problem!

In adjusting his glasses, the child raised a questioning eyebrow.

How does it make sense for a scraggly prune like you to beat up eight healthy young people?

Prune, huh…

The child's brows furrowed a little, but only for a passing moment.

This wouldn't be the first time he'd heard such a remark, and it certainly wasn't going to be the last.

Listen, youngster… You've got much nicer words around - experienced, maybe veteran - you hear me?

And - And you're short as hell, too!

Short…

Plus you look like a total mess!

Whoa, now… That's not true at all…

Yes it is, no cap! Your beard's on that five-month shadow, and your hair's a damn bird's nest! You -

Thwack.

A flame flickered from the fist that struck the child who was now lying on the floor, charring that grounded hair.

The one who threw the punch took a creased cigarette to his mouth and lit its tip with his burning fist.

Well… Saved myself the trouble of grabbing a lighter.