The lens held its aim above the road while Maren lumbered forward, the best shield Hajin could possibly ask for. He slid along that swollen flank as the barrel tracked him, leaving his left hand to carry the guard alone.
His right arm still dangled like dead rope after the pulse, so the left hand did every job.
Behind him, three patrol guards scrambled up to the overturned cart beside the sheltered bend.
Hajin jabbed a finger back at them without ever taking his eyes off the lens, "Heads below the rim, there's a damn weapon on the battlement!"
The nearest guard yanked his companion down before either of them could pop up for a curious look.
"And you?" the man called, pressing his cheek against the splintered wheel instead of peeking over it.
Hajin slid another half pace sideways, keeping that hulking body squarely between the barrel and his chest.
"I've got the bigger shield, so stay put!"
