Lucian, still battling the fire, was oblivious as Tristan crept up to Gabriel's prone form. With a swift, practiced motion, Tristan pulled Gabriel to his feet and began to retreat into the shadows.
Gabriel, barely clinging to consciousness, managed to whisper, "Tristan…?"
"Shh," Tristan hissed, his grip firm on Gabriel's arm. "We're getting you out of here."
As they disappeared into the night, Lucian's magic finally extinguished the last of the flames. He straightened, wiping sweat from his brow, and turned back to where he'd left Gabriel.
But the spot was empty.
"Gabriel?" Lucian's voice was sharp, his eyes scanning the darkened courtyard.
There was no answer, only the distant echo of footsteps retreating into the night. Lucian's eyes narrowed dangerously as realization dawned.
"Fuck," Lucian growled, fury building within him. "He's gone."
