[ It's always been easier for Dokja to focus on others rather than himself, and he eagerly takes this opportunity to fret over Joonghyuk's appearance. His eyes don't miss the faded bruises layered on top of fresh ones, and the corners of his lips turn down as he loses count of the number of them.

He pulls his wrist from Joonghyuk's hold to grab him by the arm, tugging him down toward the ground so they can both sit. ]

Seriously, I know it's not like you to listen to other people, but isn't this too much?

[ There's no fighting back when they're powerless and the guards have their fancy magic whips. Dokja himself had been on his best behavior up until the shock of seeing Yoo Joonghyuk had caused him to make a break for the forest. ]

Keep your head down for now.