บท 392: Choices and Consequences

"Hold on, partner," Billy finally spoke, his drawl thick with disbelief. "Are you sayin' this whole control thing was just some kind of unwanted baggage deal that came with that fancy spell you learned?"

Daniel nodded, confirming Billy's suspicions. "Precisely," he replied.

"Phew…" Billy expelled a long breath, a hint of relief softening his features. The thought of being someone's slave was enough to make his skin crawl.

"Alright, partner," he drawled, using his usual term of address. "What now? Am I free to go?" He gestured towards the exit with a raised eyebrow, his expression a mix of hope and skepticism. He knew freedom wouldn't be easy to come by.

Daniel let out a faint smile. "I offer you two choices, Mr. McCarthy," Daniel began, showing two fingers. "First, you walk out of here as a freeman."