Pheres stumbles as you push him, giving you a look over his shoulder like he really doesn't understand what's going on. He's walking like a puppet with its strings cut, and when he reaches Marduk, he immediately latches onto an arm, twisting just enough so that he's facing the right direction. The look that Marduk gives you is flat-out mean, but she doesn't say a word, just flicks her ears like she's chasing away flies.

She's smarting over the trainee comment, probably, but tough shit: you're Mirthful and she's not, and the Book is real clear on where that places each of you, spectrum or not. You smile at her, but it's hard to keep up the smuggery when Pheres's leaning against her, close enough that he'd be cheek-to-cheek if it weren't for those stupid horns. His eyes are pleased slits, and he's laughing about something under his breath, his lips too slow for you to read and his voice too low to hear.

Good to see the purring shit wasn't personal: apparently, cuddling with strangers is just what he does, because now that he's hanging on the jade, he seems happy as a clambeast.

(Well, what did you expect, when you shoved him off like that? Should've just dealt with the mugginess -)

Ugh, what the fuck ever.

You start walking, and sure enough, the other two fall in step behind you. It takes you a few feet to realise the thump of feet behind you is off, though, and when you look back, yeah - you're missing one of your little number.

The maroon kid is hanging back, peering off into the distance like they're waiting for someone, which is bullshit: no one's awake this time of day save for your lot, and you aren't up for dawdling right now. Long legs mean a long stride, and without having to wait up for the other short-asses, heading back to the kid only takes a minute.

"Come on," you snap, and you snatch them up by the back of their cape. Carrying them or dragging them, it doesn't really matter: either way, Hinnom's coming with them.

If you're playing shitblood corraller, might as well do it right.