Chapter 379:
Caspian
It's obvious what these bastards plan to do to her.
I can see it in their eyes—the way they look at her, the way their tongues wet their lips, the way their hands twitch at their sides. She's not a person to them. She's merchandise. Something to be taken, sold, used.
I won't let them.
I shield the woman even more, pressing her behind my body, my arms spread wide. My sword is drawn. My heart is pounding. My hands are shaking.
But I don't run.
"Hand her over, boy." The pirate leader's voice is gravel and gristle. "We'll let you live."
"No."
The word comes out steadier than I feel.
The pirates laugh. The sound is an ugly chorus of wheezes and coughs and missing teeth.
I grip my sword tighter.
I won't let them.
I can't.
The bushes rustle.
A figure steps out—tall, dark, unhurried. Boots first. Then dark trousers. Then a coat the color of midnight. The hat casts the face in shadow, but I know who it is.
The Devil.
