Chapter 216: Shi’Enz & Hound.
Night.
Theodore Mansion.
Critic Arley, Critic-Ishire.
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In this cold winter night, the sky a deep, inky black, with crisp air, carrying the faint scent of pine light flickered in the kitchen of the grand Theodore mansion, Hound was carefully wrapping a bundle in the warm light of his kitchen.
His white clothing stood in stark contrast to the dimly lit room, giving him an ethereal appearance. He took a final look at his creation, biscuits he’d baked with care, before securing the package and slipping it into his satchel.
Wrapping himself in a thick white cloak, he stepped out into the night, his breath visible in the cold air. He walked to the stable and opened a space, a majestic horse with a sleek coat, waiting patiently. With a graceful motion, he mounted the horse and urged it forward, the hooves beating a rhythmic pattern on the ground.
The journey through the city was swift; the streets were deserted, the world around him silent except for the occasional howl of the wind. Hound rode with purpose, his eyes fixed ahead, the estate without a fence standing as his destination on the opposite side of the city.
Upon arrival, he dismounted with practiced ease and approached the building, his eyes scanning for the familiar balcony. He scaled the side of the house with agile movements and as his eyes landed on the balcony he took a deep breath before hauling himself up, his stomach muscles ached and clenched but he held back a grunt not to wake her up, the cold metal railings biting into his hands before he landed softly on the balcony, her doors were ajar, inviting him in, his footsteps soundless as he entered the room.
The dim glow of the fireplace cast a soft light over Shi’Enz, who laid on the edge of her bed, her chest rising and falling gently in sleep. She wore a delicate pink nightdress that contrasted with the pale hues of her room. Her honey-brown hair spilled over the pillow, framing her serene face.
He moved closer, his green eyes taking in every detail. With a tender touch, he tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear, then carefully rearranged her blanket to shield her from the biting cold. His lips curved into a rare smile, a soft, genuine expression that spoke of deep affection as he watched her mumble.