The hall shook.

Stone cracked. Torches blew out.

Kael convulsed at my feet, scar splitting like a mouth opening too wide. Light not silver, not flame poured from it, a molten scream given form.

Wolves dropped to their knees, howling, claws over ears. Some clawed out their own eyes to block the sight.

The unborn’s voice surged, layered over Kael’s.

“You built me a door. I will step through him. I will be both flame and fang. I will be your forever.”

Kael arched, spine snapping back ...