Later

“Get away from me!” Eoghan shouted, and stumbled back, swinging his sword wildly.

In the background, Deagan was shouting orders. People crowded and parted like waves crashing onto shore; Ciaran struggled to reach his father.

Then someone shouted his name.

“Not now!” Brenna appeared at his side. She had a shallow gash along her cheekbone, blood in her hair.


Ciaran continued after his father, but Brenna caught his wrist, brought him up short. She was too strong for a real girl –

She pressed his bloody sword into his hand.

“Fight now,” she said. “Reunite later.”

“Will there be a later?”