Maximilian silently retrieved the pouch from the pond, tied it to his waist, and rose to his feet. The wings on his back expanded powerfully.
Just as he was about to fly off, a hand rested on his shoulder. Its long fingers with sharp nails pressed firmly against the fabric of his clothes.
"Will you not greet this old hag, Young Master?" a calm feminine voice came from behind, causing sweat to trickle down his temple.
"How could you call yourself an old hag, Lady Cindera?" Maximilian gasped, as if genuinely exasperated. He turned around and continued with a weary grin. "You are the most beautiful young lady in the two realms."
