Wakefulness returned in a rush of vibrant sensation. The acrid tang of smoke clogged Aria's senses first, followed swiftly by the percussive thundering of distant explosions.

Her eyes flew open, instincts surging her upright despite the residual lassitude weighing her limbs. Beside her, the bedcovers lay in tousled disarray—Ryker's side long since vacated to coolness.

Shouts and the metallic ring of clashing steel split the night a hairsbreadth later, sending Aria vaulting from their marital bed without a second thought. She snatched up the ornate dagger from the bedside table, the blade's ceremonial edge glinting dully as she palmed the hilt.

Heart pounding a frantic staccato, she tugged a discarded...