The air in the lower courtyard was bitter and biting. But thanks to my growing fury, it generated some kind of heat within me to withstand it.
Diego shadowed my movements silently, his presence beneath the shadow of the archway twenty paces behind me. His broadsword was already unsheathed, the steel gleaming under the moonlight, and his eyes were locked onto the shadows of the perimeter like a hawk poised to strike. He was honoring my command to give me space, but the tense line of his shoulders made his intent clear. The moment I gave the signal, he would tear through whatever threatened me without hesitation.
I came to a halt in the center of the courtyard, resting my hands lightly over my chest as I closed my eyes for a single beat, listening to the shallow breathing hidden nearby.
"
