Chapter 25 · Cracks in the Flesh

"Put him down, Vera. Right now."

The command came from the catwalk above us, followed by the click of three rifles being readied.

Vera tightened her arms around Pip. The cub made a small, frightened sound against her chest.

I hit the ground on one knee.

Pain punched through my left leg. Not the normal kind. This felt like every thread holding my body together had decided to quit at the same time.

Light leaked through the cracks in my thigh.

Vera saw it. Her grip on Pip went rigid.

"Jace," she whispered.

"Don't use my name like that. Makes it sound serious."

"It is serious." She stepped in front of Pip, putting her body between him and the rifles. "You're coming apart."

"I've noticed."

Another crack split across my ribs. White-gold light flashed beneath the dark, stitched hide. A hot drop slid down my side and hit the floor with a sharp hiss.

The rifleman above cursed.

"Farm Master wants the beast alive," he called. "Vera, move away from it."

"Come down here and make me."

"Don't push me, hunter. Your debt is already past due."

Vera raised her crossbow.