The Puppets [3]

'...This is starting to get a little difficult.' 

I could feel the sweat drip down from the side of my face.

It felt strangely cool. 

"Kh." 

I took a deep and steady breath. 

I was slowly starting to tire out. Staring at the numerous puppets ahead of me, I flicked my hand and cut the threads above them before sending them behind me. 

'How long have I been doing this for?' 

I had lost count by now. 

All I knew was that I had been going at this for at least several hours. 

I was on the verge of exhaustion, and when I looked to my right, I saw Caius standing calmly. 

"You can switch with me when you're done." 

"...Yes, I'll switch soon." 

I probably could've pushed myself further than this. This wasn't my true limit. If I wanted to, I could squeeze myself until utter exhaustion, but... 

'I don't have to do that.'

Yes, I didn't have to do that. 

I wasn't alone.