Chapter 56: They left me

"BASTARD!! CALL ME BY MY TITLE!!"

Blake's roar reverberated through the forest, his anger casting a heavy tension over the group.

Aether met Blake's furious gaze for a fleeting moment, his mind racing with the realization that now was not the time for pride or defiance. With the other men scrutinizing Stella intently, he knew he had to tread carefully.

"Mr. Blake, I assure you that I am returning to my master," Aether spoke calmly, his voice steady despite the storm brewing around them. "This girl agreed to help me, that's all."

Stella flinched at the tension, her gaze shifting to Aether, but she remained silent.

"Hmm? I know that, dumbass," Blake responded with a smirk. Then, his expression turned sinister as he continued, "You know, hunting humans is more useful than hunting monsters."

"W-What do you mean...?" Aether asked, his suspicion growing as he began to grasp the situation.