Conal knew that his confusion would be evident on his face ... he made no effort to hide it, reasoning that if the two strange women didn't speak much English, they could at least recognise expressions. He slowly put the money back into his pocket, then raised his hand to rub at his throat.<em>I'm sure it only feels like there's an imprint of it there.</em>he thought.<br/><br/><em>Should I try and get up?</em>His eyes flicked over the darker of the two.<em>She's very protective of her friend, or whatever they are. Might be safer to say something to the other one before I try standing. I think I have enough bruises today, thanks.</em><br/><br/>He cleared his throat to draw her attention back towards him. "You mind if I get up again? I'm not planning to do anything, it's just uncomfortable here, you know? Your friend isn't planning to knock me down again, right?" He paused a moment before continuing. "And if you don't want money, what do you want? What the heck's going on here?"