[He manages, somehow, to look more exasperated with each word that passes Jasper’s lips. It’s true, Thornean authority should at least be aware of what’s happened here, and it isn’t in Stephen’s interests, either, to let those with the intent to rob or kill innocent flora-gatherers walk away scot-free.

But why can’t anything be simple? An outing just be an outing? He ruefully laments the state of his luck, and his companion’s dour mood isn’t helping. Even if this is something he had accounted for by asking him along, it doesn’t mean the worst-case scenario coming to pass is any less tiring.]

If we’re going to lug three people back with two horses, then I’m at least going to heal that one first.

[The one with the crushed hand and probably a torn ligament in his knee.]

Otherwise, we’ll have to deal with his complaining the whole way back.