I stepped out of the barn, carrying the child securely in my arms. The night air was cool against my skin, a stark contrast to the heat of the battle we had just left behind. Behind me, Lyall remained inside to remove Zale's shackles and extract the information we needed—the demon's name and the details of their contract.
The child stirred slightly, his small hands clutching a fistful of my cloak. His voice was hesitant, uncertain. "Who was he?"
I glanced down at him, his wide eyes filled with fear and confusion. "He was the one being used by the bad guy," I explained gently. "The one who cursed you."
His grip on my cloak tightened, fingers trembling slightly. "I-Is he going to die then?"
I smiled, shaking my head. "No," I reassured him. "I've helped him out, so he'll go back home. We'll probably meet him in the future."
