The world seemed to tilt, and time slowed with fear.

Gideon's blade came down in a silver arc aimed straight for my chest.

Darius moved faster than thought. He threw himself between us, taking the strike across his shoulder instead. Blood sprayed. His blood. Because of me.

"No!" The scream tore from my throat as he staggered.

Gideon laughed. "There it is. The weakness I've been waiting for."

Darius dropped to one knee, hand pressed against the wound. Through our bond I felt his pain like ...