Panic was written across William's face as he left the island with his father in his arms.
His mind was almost blank.
He propelled himself through the air, his body floating under the influence of telekinesis. Under normal circumstances, such delicate control required absolute focus. Yet even in his frantic state, the force held steady, carrying them swiftly toward the mainland.
The reason for his fear was obvious.
His father.
The man's breathing had grown shallow. His aether presence had nearly vanished. His complexion had turned ghostly pale, a sight that only deepened William's dread.
The moment his feet touched the mainland, he spotted the person he had been searching for.
"Emma!" he shouted urgently.
Emma's eyes widened the instant she saw the man William carried.
The sickly figure lying in his arms was none other than the same proud and formidable Count she had met not long ago.
William lowered him carefully onto the ground.
"Emma… please…"
