I furrowed my brows as I felt a pair of arms grasp around me. I blinked groggily, as I was lifted off of the ground and carried away. Smoke hugged the thick trees, making it difficult to see. I caught a glimpse of scarlet red hair before feeling myself grow dizzy again and faint in the stranger's arms.

Blinking as my eyes adjusted to the sunlight, I’d looked around. The world felt like it was spinning around me. I looked to my left, seeing smoke tunnel out of a forest. I’d narrow my eyes, batting my lashes against the sun.

“Hey!” A man's voice called. “Are you listening to me?”

I turned, seeing two figures standing near my feet, looking down on me. I was sitting down on a sandy dirt trail, and clumps of weeds peaked through here and there. I’d immediately scoot back as the two figures merged to one.

“Hello?” The man asked gently.

“Who are you?” I croaked, grimacing and reaching for my arm because of the sudden movement. The man crouched down, gently gripping my shoulders. 

“You don’t know me, but you’re injured!”

I looked down at my shoulder when he touched me, shrugging him off as if I were disgusted. “Well thanks, but I can handle myself.” I pushed against the ground with my uninjured arm, leaning against the building behind me for support. The man furrowed his brows with concern. 

“Hey, you shouldn’t move too much. . . it’s not safe. Besides, there’s a medic on the way!”

I looked back at him. “I don’t have time for this.” 

He stood up as I did, reaching out hesitantly before lowering his arms again. “Sir, please--” I staggered, and he immediately caught me as I fell forward. “Please wait for the medic.” He said calmly, stepping away from me once I’d caught my footing. 

I tucked my necklace beneath my coat. "Fine."