In one fluid motion, Charles shot to his feet and sprinted toward the pool. Guests turned in alarm. Eric, just exiting the arena heard Charles scream Sera's name. Cyril also moved. The three men—the three most powerful men in Crestwood converging on a human girl in imminent danger.
Charles dove without hesitation, a flash of white hair reflecting in the shimmering water. Sera had sunk near the far side of the pool, eyes wide and panicked, limbs flailing helplessly. Charles grabbed her firmly but gently, maneuvering her toward the shallow edge. The water slapped against the deck as he hauled her out.
He laid her on the wet tiles. Around them, guests were still whispering, some peering over shoulders, but their words barely registered. Charles's world had narrowed to the small, shivering girl at his side.
