Chapter 130

I groaned, pulling the sled I had managed to put together from broken branches and leaves. On top of it lay Alaric, still unconscious, as he had left me no choice.

It would’ve spared me a lot of time and strength if he had just listened to me—but at the same time, I understood I was probably the last person he wanted to hear from at the moment.

The path through the dark woods was rough, my arms burning—but I couldn’t stop. Not until I knew he was safe.

By now, Mom and Esther’s paralysis must’ve worn off, meaning I had to move faster.

Sighing deeply, I glanced up at the hill in the distance. At the top was the cave that led to Bloodstone Haven—the village of the children of blood. We weren’t far now.

“Come on,” I whispered, encouraging myself. “You’re almost there.”

The cave was my only option, and I was certain Mom wouldn’t find us here. As far as she was concerned, I hadn’t spoken to Grandpa Aelius in years and barely remembered the man.