40.| The Price Of Freedom

Only a few hours had passed since Yuè had killed Lord Payton in self defense. His once white hair was now stained crimson, and he couldn't stop staring at the blood flaking beneath his nails as they drew closer to a forest below.

The man held him tighter as they swooped down, his massive wings pulling behind his muscled back to make their descent faster. When they landed, the trees swayed, losing their leaves from the impact that followed.

Ahead of them, a small hut sat. Its roof thatched, vines running up its sides, and only a single, circular window could be seen emitting a deep orange glow.

"Let's get you cleaned up." The silvered haired man's eyes remained on Yuè during the short walk to the hut. He pulled open the door with a creak and stepped inside.

Warmth and darkness greeted them with open arms, and a flickering light came from the back.

He placed Yuè on his feet.