Magpie Jones had always found it difficult to ask for help.

Even when they were in primary school it was hard to admit when they needed someone else to step in and assist. Once Mags had done an entire biolab by themselves, forgoing sleep for forty-eight hours.

But now, with a castle full of the previously dead, Magpie had to admit they could use a shoulder to lean on. 

“Hey, how long have you been here?” Aspen poked Magpie in the shoulder. “Have you slept?”

Magpie smiled. Having someone looking out for them wasn’t so bad.