54. Justin

Chapter fifty-four

Justin

I didn't even have time to chide my own stupidity.

The guards' training kicked in, and they dragged me from the balcony, racing toward the exit. We made it two steps before the first arrow dropped the guard on my left, a perfect shot through the eye.

The other guard hesitated, stunned by the sudden loss of his partner.

It was his last mistake.

Three arrows flew from the balcony where a dozen robed men lay in hiding, waiting for any intrusion.

Apparently, the masked beasts could learn and adapt.

I panicked and fled down the hallway.

I'd forgotten the plan, that I still wore the mask and robe, that I could blend in.

I'd forgotten everything .

All I could think of was the exit and escaping the missiles streaking around me.

The magical flames that lit the hallway winked out, and I fumbled forward in utter darkness, trying to feel my way with my hand against the wall.

Boots thundered behind me.

They were getting closer.

I tore off my mask and threw it behind me.

And then I fell.