*The memory faded.*

Jayden gasped, his body jerking as he snapped back to reality. His glowing eyes flickered, dimming slightly. His claws began to retract. His breath still came in heavy pants, but the overwhelming, uncontrollable rage had begun to subside.

Emric watched the change happen, his expression softening.

At that moment, he understood.

Jayden wasn’t just a fighter. He wasn’t just a troubled kid who bullied others for control.

He was *neglected*. A ...