Chapter 64 · Then maybe it should choke you first

The words stopped him.

Sevryn watched us with open interest. "There. That's the part you still don't understand. The oath isn't only in his blood anymore. It's in your choices. Every time you save him, it tightens. Every time he chooses you over duty, it tightens around both of you."

"Then maybe it should choke you first," I said.

The fourth sentry struck.

Calian shoved me behind the archway and took the blow on his sword. The impact drove him to one knee. His wounded side opened again, blood splattering the stone.

"Calian!"

"Stay back!"

"No."

I stepped toward him.

The blade pulled me forward.

Not physically. It was worse than that. The whole vault leaned toward the handle. My heartbeat followed the pulse under my palm.

Calian looked up. "Lia, don't come closer."

"You just told me to stay close."

"I changed my mind."

"You don't get to do that every time you're scared."

The sentry raised its sword over him.

I lifted the oath blade.

"Lia, listen to me.