In a dimly lit alley, a small figure crouched on the ground, burying her face in her knees as if that could shield her from the world's malice.
Yet the faint sobs coming from between her knees made it clear how frightened she was.
Watching the filthy, frail little figure through the Death Soldier's eyes, Lin Ze couldn't help but sigh.
She was so weak and frail that she could hardly fight back when people picked on her.
What Lin Ze had done today could only help her for a while.
Lin Ze felt around the bundle on his back. He had bought a few things while asking about prices earlier.
He pulled out some candy and a local specialty of Stone Desert City: Roasted Naan.
"Little one, it's all right now. Get up. Where do you live? I'll take you home."
At the sound of the deep voice, the little figure shuddered.
Still, she cautiously raised her head. A broad hand appeared before her, holding food.
"Grrr!"
She swallowed hard, and her little stomach growled.
"Are you hungry? Here, take it!"
Lin Ze slowly held the food out a little farther, careful not to startle her again.
The little one kept her head lowered, her face obscured by messy hair.
"...Thank you."
She cautiously reached out and took the food. After a long silence, she spoke in a small voice, tinged with tears.
Lin Ze noticed she was wearing clothes that didn't fit, far too large for her. They probably belonged to an adult in her family.
"Where do you live? I'll take you home."
"I... I don't have a home."
Lin Ze drew a deep breath and shook his head slightly.
He was considering whether to have the little one travel with the Death Soldier.
But she was