Malcolm's parting words carried a clear warning.
As long as Hutson remained hidden within Moonlight Grove, he was safe. But the moment he stepped beyond its borders, Malcolm would strike.
After a brief moment of thought, Malcolm made his decision—for now, he would retreat.
Barty was too strong to face directly, and taking Hutson from him was nearly impossible. A direct battle here would serve no purpose.
Casting one last glance at Barty, Malcolm turned his Nightmare Steed and vanished into the sky.
Barty watched him go, making no effort to stop him.
This was a critical moment of truce, and escalating the conflict could disrupt the fragile balance between factions. Even so, the hostility between Moonlight Grove and Green Lodge had been reignited.
Turning his gaze downward, Barty looked at the battered form of Hutson.
"We need to get him back to the Grove. I'll inform Larry."
Hutson was Larry's student, and though his injuries were severe, they were not fatal.
