Darren's POV
Maklev stood facing the front door, his back to us. His weapon was hidden, and he looked to be in meditation. I looked to the kitchen, hearing a singing voice.
"Diamond, come. Kristin missed you far more than you can imagine."
I pulled Diamond towards the kitchen, seeing her face brighten with a smile. She hid behind me as I walked in, my large frame doing a perfect job.
"King, you're back. What did the Witch Queen need? Is Diamond okay?"
"I don't know how best to answer that."
Kristin dashed over, her eyes looking for hope in mine. Her fists pressed against my chest. Her body leaned on mine. She was too flustered to listen for the fourth heartbeat in the mansion.
"Don't tell me she's gone? We did everything right. Please tell me there's something we can do to save her."
"There's no need for that."
"No need? What do you mean? Are you just going to let her die?"
