Katelina looked to see that Loren was held prisoner, his good arm twisted behind his back, and a bloody cut across his stomach. Micah fought to free him, but two of the attackers jumped on his back. One of Loren's captors brought their sickle to the boy's throat and with an outraged growl, Micah surrendered.

Ume had swung up into a tree, and kicked at the vampires that attempted to reach her. Her wild eyes showed that she knew it wasn't a permanent solution. "Stop!" she cried. ...