Heart in her throat, Sapphire spun around at the sound of the deep voice. She couldn't help it. She wasn't sure if it was the poison in her system or if she was just struck dumb by the sight of the male standing before her.

He was beautiful...and large. He stood a good six and a half feet tall, his blond hair brushing his shoulders. His black vest barley covered his wide, muscular chest and did nothing to cover the light swirls of chest hair as it swirled and dipped below the wide leather belt at his waist.

Green eyes similar in color to her sister, Emerald's, stared down at her with the most mischievous-looking twinkle she'd ever seen. Arms as big as tree limbs crossed his chest.

As he stood examining her, she couldn't help but notice he had markings similar to hers.

"Hello," Sapphire replied warily. "Do you know how I can contact Galen?"

The man held his hands out to his sides and grinned. "Why would you search out another male, when you have one so handy already?" He waggled his brows. "Believe me when I say I would service you in any way you need, lady."

"I need a healer." Her vision blurred and she felt her body give way to a bout of the cold sweats. Swiping her arm across her brow, she began to pant. Flipping her hair back over her shoulder, she raised a hand to her wound and pointed. "I've been shot with an arrow tipped with poison. I must see him immediately."

"Let me help you, lady." The suddenly serious male stepped forward and made to take her in his arms.

Sapphire stepped back with a snarl, her scowl fierce. She may be injured, but she was still well enough to fight if this male attempted to kidnap her for his own. She would be no man's possession. Lifting her chin, she stubbornly stared him down. "I will allow only Galen to touch me."

Smiling, the man shook his head. "I am not certain how I have garnered such trust in one I have never met, but I thank you, lady." He bowed with a flourish. "I am Galen, at your service. Now...will you allow me to help you before you collapse, or shall I wait until you do so?"

"No one told me you were a tease." She eyed him suspiciously. "How do I know you speak the truth?"