Chapter 11 · The Brass Oath - Chapter 11: Underground Stakes

"You sold us out." Mara drove the broken gear blade under Inez Calder's chin and shoved her against the tunnel wall. "Tell me I'm wrong. Go on. Lie to my face one more time."

Inez's hands stayed raised, but her smile had already cracked. "I gave them a route. Not your names."

"That route led six council hounds straight to our door."

"And you're still standing. You're welcome."

Cain moved before Mara could press the blade deeper. His hand closed around Mara's wrist, hot and hard, and he dragged her arm away from Inez's throat. The oath under Mara's ribs flared in answer. White pain snapped through her chest.

"Let go," Mara said.

"Drop the blade."

"She sold us to the council."

"I heard you the first time. Drop it."

Mara twisted against his grip. Cain stepped in behind her, chest against her shoulder blades, one arm locked across her middle. His breath touched the side of her neck. The tunnel was too narrow for three people and too dangerous for anyone to pretend they had room to breathe.

Inez glanced at the weapon, then at Cain. "Still taking orders, Rook?"

Cain's fingers tightened. "Walk away, Calder."

"Can't.