A low groan drew her attention, and she whirled, her blade raised in defense. But it was only Ryker, his face etched with pain as he struggled to his feet.

"My love!" Aria rushed to his side, sheathing her sword and wrapping her arms around him. "You're injured."

Ryker waved her off, his jaw clenched against the agony that lanced through his body. "It's nothing, a mere flesh wound."

Aria fixed him with a pointed look, her eyes narrowing. "Don't lie to me, Ryker. I know when you're downplaying your injuries."

A ghost of a smile flitted across Ryker's features, and he relented with a weary nod. "Very well, you've...