Neal let out another wheeze.

His leg hurt.

He felt like he had been walking for hours, the cold nipping at every part of him until the only thing he could feel was his throbbing heartbeat.

"I need my horse," Neal grumbled as he stumbled slightly, eyes searching for any way out.

No matter which was he turned, he always found himself to be lost. At first, the forest was a welcome sight, an easy retreat away from their losing battle, but now...

Neal grunted again as his foot got caught on a rock. He cursed under his breath, leaning against a tree. His eyes gave his surroundings one last look, before something caught his eye.

Is that a house?

He ignored his leg pain as he staggered up the steps of the small cottage- Sure, a murderer could be inside, but right now his only concern was getting warm.

So, with a shaky breath, he knocked on the door.