CHAPTER 122: Her help

Maximus’ POV~~

“My help? Tell me, what did you need me to do?” She probed as the corners of her eyes crinkled.

“Don’t mind my manners, healer; let’s go inside my cabin so we can have a proper discussion,” the old witch said as she took the lead and walked us to her cabin.

The cabin hunched over like a crooked old crone, its roof thatched with a patchwork of moss and wild grasses. Smoke curled from a chimney that leaned like a drunken sailor, disappearing into the thick, twilight sky.

Twisted branches of ancient oak clawed at the sagging walls, half-embracing the ramshackle structure. Carved symbols, weathered and strange, peeked out from under peeling paint. The closer I got, the stronger the smell hit me—woodsmoke, damp earth, and something else—something herbal and sharp that made my nose twitch. This wasn't your grandma's cozy cabin. This was a place steeped in magic, and maybe a touch of danger.

“Come in,” she gestured to us.

Healer Aric took the lead, while I followed behind.