Chapter 40 · A shockwave threw them both backward. Seraphina’s grip

A shockwave threw them both backward. Seraphina’s grip broke. Raven caught her around the waist before she slipped through the net.

“Got you,” he said.

“Don’t say that like you’re proud.”

“I’m very proud.”

“You’re impossible.”

“You’re welcome again.”

The upper cable began to fracture.

Raven saw the barge’s underside open. Soldiers in black church armor moved into position behind heavy ballistae.

Seraphina saw them too.

“Those aren’t barge guards,” she said.

“No.”

“Those are inquisitors.”

“Your people?”

“Not anymore.”

The first bolt fired.

Raven twisted, dragging Seraphina beneath him.

The bolt tore through the net and buried itself in the barge’s support tower. Golden metal burst apart.

“Raven!”

“Cutting now.”

“Wait for the second anchor.”

“If I wait, they fire again.”

“Cut both, or we fall into the city.”

“Trust me.”

Her eyes locked on his.

“I hate that you keep asking for that.”

“You keep giving it.”

She grabbed his wrist and pressed the sword back into his hand.

“Then don’t waste it.