Page 18 (1/2)

Michael, Lisette and the slayers awaited her return—withanxiety if the stressful looks on their faces were any indication Jade entered the community hall and Michael rushed toward her She warned hi of her hand and he stopped in his tracks Sparking conflict between both her former and her phantom lovers would not bode well for any of them

Darien announced, “We’ve deduced it’s a rogue deeneral and I will see that whatever stalks her is tracked and ree and I suggest no one visits her, lest either of you,” he said to Michael and Lisette, “find yourselves in jeopardy I’edy brought on by this unfortunate incident”

She nodded

Walker said, “Tanner and I will coular basis”

“Very good,” Darien told the her house and the riverbank You ought to keep a close eye on the village itself I’ll restrictsuspicious, you’ll knoon’t be from my alliance and you have my permission to take action”

The gravity of the situation lance at Darien, whose face was a

Heavy footsteps on the stone floor drew her attention A tall, blond-haired man strode toward them

Darien explained, “This is eneral He’ll see that Jade makes it home safely”

The newcomer nodded at her and she said, “Thank you I appreciate the help”

Michael looked agitated and opened his mouth to speak, but she quickly assured him, “It’ll be fine They’ll find their demon and that’ll put everyone’s minds at ease”

“But why is it stalking you?” he asked

Jade couldn’t help but s to alleviate some of the pressure, even if her own nerves wouldn’t settle “I’eneral will discover that quickly enough Don’t worry about me I have castle and slayer protection I’uarded human in thirty-five years”

Lisette said, “Then do as they say You tend to have a stubborn side This isn’t one of those times it should prevail”

“I understand” She gave her friend a hug A thought suddenly occurred to her and she added, “Daet a chance to clean it up”

She’d bled on the floor Not so she wanted to say in front of everyone