The ground beneath my paws was still warm from the blue energy that emanated from Ignis, pushing me away from the abyss. The black wolf's form trembled slightly, not from physical pain, but from frustration and a sense of powerlessness. Ignis positioned herself between me and Zora, the Moon Goddess clearly taking the side of my rival. Zora desperately clung to the hem of Ignis's gown.

“You always show up when it's convenient, Ignis,” Zora murmured, her voice mixing a forced tone of ...