Chapter 15 · A Voice with a Seam

"Put the blade down, Kane."

His sword stayed at the guard's throat.

The man on his knees shook so hard his helmet knocked against the stone. Blood ran from the cut above his eyebrow. Kane didn't blink. The edge pressed closer, raising a thin red line beneath the guard's jaw.

"He opened the east gate," Kane said.

"He says he didn't."

"He used my voice to give the order."

"Then killing him won't tell us who copied it."

Kane's eyes cut to me. Cold. Sharp. Still hot enough to tighten my skin where his shoulder brushed mine.

"You have ten seconds to give me a better idea."

"I already did. You just hate it."

Behind us, three guards stood frozen beside the shattered communication station. A black metal box spat sparks across the table. The attack order had played twice in the last minute, both times in Kane's voice.

Open the east gate. Let the breach team through. Kill anyone who resists.

The words had brought half the house running.

Kane had arrived seconds later with his sword drawn.