[Orual]

As he helped Jadae up, Arethin winced. He had been trying to ignore the pain in his side, though it was all but impossible now. He gripped his side, though he couldn't fathom how that could possibly help. It didn't. He could hardly stand up straight. Angalos came up to support him, and Arethin gave him a grateful smile. His face was hot as he thought of his reluctance to help find his companion.

Arethin took a seat, grasping the chair as he sat down, slowly. His face contorted with pain, and he bit his lip until it bled. Two, three broken ribs? More? He could not tell. He had broken one before, and it had taken long enough to heal. He couldn't afford to be injured.

The whole group watched the two elves uneasily. Arethin wanted to say something, but he could not think of any words. His mother's survival rested on their decision...he couldn't just sit by and let them...but he was so tired, and his ribs hurt so much...

"Arethin? Are you all right?" He heard Jadae's voice, but only just barely. Everything was dim and dull, like a foggy night. But darker than that. It was like he was surrounded by bright lights, and they were going out one by one. He could hardly see anymore, his hearing was going, too, and finally the pain was too much, and the darkness closed in...