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I saw the ax twirling through the water in our direction. We were pressed so close together, and the weapon traveled at near impossible speed, that the sharp curve of the executioner’s blade could very well have ended us both. Adrenaline coursed through my bloodstream as I watched the weapon hurtle towards us, threatening death.
But then Prince Kai was shoving me aside. I grunted, not registering his movements. He was a blur of black and blue silk, like the strong push of a current in the water. A moment later, he stilled, and in his hands he held the handle of the ax that should have ended us both.
Annoyance I couldn’t avoid surged through me.
“Don’t do that again!” I snapped. I was the guard. Not him. Despite his reputation as the Dragon Prince, I was meant to throw myself into the path of danger to protect him. Not the other way around.
He glared at me with changed eyes, the dark brown having vanished to make room for something absolutely feral. Slit pupils and a bright blue iris, focused like a beast hunting for prey. No longer was he Prince Kai Li of Draconi, but he became the Dragon Prince right before my eyes. The one that was so terribly revered. And like the rumors whispered, his eyes glowed with fearsome might. His nostrils flared, catching scent of the enemy he meant to catch and destroy.
Without a word, he dropped the ax and whirled around, speeding forward in the water to chase after that criminal and Maisie.
Cursing myself for wasting a moment to gawk at the abnormal prince, I bent down to scoop up my sword and darted after them as well. I should have never let her swim down from that balcony. I’d made a vow to protect Maisie like I’d failed to protect Princess Odele, and I couldn’t break my promise now.
I put in a burst of speed, coming up beside Prince Kai. He may have had a special set of skills that set him apart from other royals of his station, but I was made for this. Meant to protect and defend.
The amphitheater was shaped in a circle, with different levels for seating arrangements. I caught sight of a purple and black tail ahead, heading for one of the many exits around the stadium. If they made it out, it’d be harder to catch them. Harder, but not impossible.
And I meant to catch him and send him straight to the gallows. Whether Maisie, that fool of a mer, wanted the Black Blade dead or not. I’d see to it myself. Because he’d threatened her life, and he’d taken her.
And now, the only thing between her and death was me.