“Let Yerin advance,” Lindon said quietly. “Leave us alone, and I will swear an oath right now to turn down any nominations for the tournament.” Kiro stopped his gradual advance. His shield lowered slightly. “I beg you, please stand down. She is dying.” The prince hesitated. Lindon thought he sensed uncertainty in the man's spirit, and for a moment Lindon hoped. Then Kiro shook his helmeted head. “I can't. I bear greater responsibility than you can imagine.”
