In a single, swift motion, Malcolm released my arm and thrust both hands outward.

The crowd of protesters split down the middle like a sea parting, stumbling and tripping over each other to clear a path.

He moved through them without a glance, his focus locked on the guard who was swaying dangerously on his feet.

Malcolm grabbed the man by the shoulders just as his knees buckled. "What happened? Why the hell do you look like you've been chased by rogues?"

The guard's head lolled forward. Blood dripped from a gash above his eyebrow, tracing a dark line down his cheek.

He clawed at Malcolm's sleeve, struggling to stay...