Book Five: Chapter 129

“I accept,” he said, hoping this wasn’t a huge mistake.

To his relief, Bigfoot grunted in approval. Even if they were both wrong, he at least felt better making a mistake with a friend by his side.

No, many friends. He took Velvet’s hand and squeezed her fingers. He didn’t have a word for their relationship yet, but he looked forward to figuring it out.

“Let’s get out of here,” he said, then turned to face the owl-woman. “Do you think the children of the forest will help us with Leeds?”

She nodded. “Some will not. They abstain and wait for the victor. Please do not fault them, for it is their way. But you have my vow that I shall not rest until the Devil of Jersey has been captured.”

Bigfoot held out his hand to the owl-woman, like he was expecting her to slap him five. She timidly placed her claw over his.

“I misjudged you,” he told her. “You see, I used to take my duties to the forest seriously, but was blessed to become part of a family. Instea