C323 THE LEECH AND THE LIFE

"Stay where you are, Aria! He is a monster! A leech!" Julian’s voice cracked, the pike in his hands dancing with a frantic, uncoordinated energy.

Aria didn't look at Julian. She didn't look at the circle of rebels whose faces were twisted with a mixture of terror and hope. Her eyes were locked on the Prince. He was on his knees, his palms pressed into the grit of the road. His back arched