The guards took my arms, immobilizing me as the woman stepped up and smoothly sunk the needle into my skin. I clenched my jaw at the stinging pain, remembering what Riley had told me about the drug, which was not a “mild sedative” but a very powerful tranquilizer that worked on our dragon half. Talon had developed it to further control and threaten the dragons in the organization, because not being able to Shift was one of the most frightening things that could happen to us. Almost immediately after the needle was removed, I began to feel drowsy, my limbs heavy and unresponsive. I shook my head, fighting to stay alert as Dante watched me with somber green eyes. I curled a lip at him.

“I suppose Talon told you that drugging your sister was necessary, as well,” I said scathingly.

“No.” Dante’s brow furrowed. “But I know you, Ember. I know how you’ll react, and I can’t risk anything happening to you. Even if I have to prevent you from hurting yourself.” His words sent a chill through me as I realized what he meant, that he was about to do something I wouldn’t like. Dante gave the human in the lab coat a quick glance. “Has the drug taken effect?” he asked.

“Yes, sir. It should be at full strength now.”

“Good.” He turned from me, pulling out his phone and placing it to his ear. “Squad two,” he said quietly. “Initiate. Take the rogue and the human. Alive.”

“What?” I snarled and lunged forward, but the guards grabbed my arms, holding me back. Instinctively, I tried to Shift, but there was no response from the dragon, making me furious and terrified all at once. “Dante, you lying, two-faced bastard!” I raged, struggling against my captors. “You said you would let them go.”

“I did not. I said I would let them live.” Dante’s expression was hard as he watched me, knowing I had tried to change just then. “Cobalt is the worst traitor Talon has seen in centuries,” he went on. “I will not return to the organization having let him slip through my fingers.” He shook his head. “No, I will keep my word and not kill him as I originally planned, but you all will be returning to Talon tonight.” His eyes narrowed, and he gave a small, chilling smile. “The Elder Wyrm is expecting us.”

PART III: Fang and Fire

PART III
Fang and Fire

Chapter 17: RILEY

RILEY

I groaned and opened my eyes. Then immediately wished I hadn’t.