"Aria!"
I slammed my fist against the golden barrier.
Nothing.
I struck it again.
Pain shot through my arm.
"Let her go!"
Azael didn't even look at me.
His attention remained on Aria.
Or rather...
The thing controlling her.
"Bring her."
Aria's golden eyes remained fixed on me.
She took one step toward him.
Then another.
I could feel her through our bond.
She was still there.
Faint.
Terrified.
Fighting.
Derek...
Her voice barely reached me.
I'm still here.
I closed my eyes.
I know.
Don't let him take me.
I won't.
Azael suddenly turned.
"Interesting."
My heart stopped.
He could hear us.
He smiled.
"Even now, the bond remains."
The Moon Goddess stepped forward.
"Release her."
Azael laughed.
"You've lost your authority."
"You sealed my kingdom."
"I protecte
