The first night after the forest spirit appeared, no one slept easily.

Wolves tossed and turned, whining in their dreams. The seers woke shouting strange words. Even Kael, who never feared sleep, woke with fire burning through his hands.

The Moonfire child slept quietly through it all too quietly. Her silver light flickered every time someone dreamed.

When I touched her forehead, the dreams touched me back.

I saw roots spreading under Iron Howl. Not normal roots, but living, glowing veins ...