"Soleia!"
The scream that tore out of Rafael's mouth sounded more animal than man. His face was twisted with grief and fear, focused entirely on her face. He dashed towards her as fast as his limbs were able. His body felt like it was made of rubber, and he couldn't find footing. His world was spinning off its axis as he watched Soleia's face turn gray and wan.
Soleia wanted to tell him to save his effort. It wasn't going to make a difference, now that the situation had come to this. Their child was most likely dead thanks to their grandfather, and their mother would be following suit.
As though she could read his thoughts, Soleia met his eyes. With a weak cough, a mouthful of blood escaped from her lips and fell to the floor in a splatter. She felt the last of her strength leave her body, flowing out of her through her wound.
In contrast, King Recaldo's eyes glinted with fervent joy.
