I dialed Ron's number, fearing my willpower would fail me if I delayed the inevitable any longer.

Karrin's form was snuggled amid covers on the couch. The mattress was wet, wouldn't do for her to get to walk again and get the flu.

I kissed her brow, taking in her unconscious form, marveling how now and then she would move her feet in her sleep.

I was gathering my stuff when it dawned on me. Where you are going, you will have no use for them.

I took out my cards from my sash and laid them on the table. Then I started rummaging around my sash and emptied the contents. Credit card, Michelin worthy restaurant card, empty scroll…

I unfurled it and stared at its nonexistent content. Maybe Mai started going senile? She IS ancient after all.
For shits and giggles, I held onto this one. It would drive someone up the wall to find my body, with a head chopped off. He only had a scroll on him. And it was empty!

That last bit of defiance lifted your spirits. Bravery in face of death.

You must be giddy.

Why, vessel?

When the Warden makes me one head shorter, you get a new vessel who won't refuse to fight on general principle.