Lina and I walked back to the alley where I'd knocked everyone out. Lina moved with a purpose, her steps strong and vigilant as she walked past me.
"They're all here."
Which surprised me. Why had these people not woken up and walked away by now? Surely I had not hit them that hard.
She didn't hesitate to bark her orders.
"Officers! Detain every single one. Search their pockets, check for magical devices, restrain them, and transport them to holding."
Her people rushed forward and within moments, unconscious kidnappers were being lifted onto stretchers or dragged unceremoniously across the pavement.
Lina stood with her arms crossed, her expression carved from stone.
I exhaled softly.
"Thank you for the help."
"I'm only doing my job. But I don't like how you're involved in almost every incident recently. I don't trust you."
She replied without looking at me. Then her gaze flicked my way, sharp and unfiltered.
