Chapter 49: Drifting…

Gustavo rose, a cruel smirk twisting his features, hand outstretched. The dagger quivered in Zafron's back, responding to its master's call.

'He can control the knife?!' Zafron's mind reeled, the realization hitting harder than the blade itself.

Pain, unlike anything he'd ever experienced, radiated from the wound. Zafron's knees buckled, his body no longer his to command. He collapsed, the forest floor rushing up to meet him.

From the edge of the clearing, Mara's scream shattered the night. Her eyes, wide with terror, darted frantically around until they landed on Zafron's discarded stick. Without hesitation, she snatched it up, her love for Zafron overpowering her fear.

'I have to save him,' she thought, charging forward. 'I can't lose him. Not now. Not ever.'

Mara swung the stick with all her might, aiming for Gustavo's neck. But the bodyguard was too tall, too quick. The branch connected with his shoulder instead, splintering on impact.