He exhaled sharply through his nose.
"Fine," he said. "My mistake. Take her to her assigned residence. I'll carry her. You go bring the healer—now."
Vanessa nodded without another word. She rose smoothly and vanished toward the villa gates in a blur of motion.
Qin Wei adjusted his hold and lifted Luna carefully, cradling her against his chest like she might break if he moved too fast. The Dark Pegasus—Callista—followed close behind, massive hooves silent on the stone path, wings half-folded, eyes fixed on Luna with unmistakable worry.
They walked in heavy silence.
When they reached the quiet western wing, Qin Wei pushed the door open with his shoulder and carried Luna straight to the wide bed. He laid her down gently, arranging pillows beneath her head, pulling the blanket up to her shoulders. Then he sat on the edge of the mattress, elbows on his knees, staring at her still face.
Guilt coiled tight in his chest.
