The gardens behind the academy were quiet at this hour. Most students avoided them after dark, superstitious about the old stone statues that lined the paths. But I'd always found the silence comforting.

I sat on the edge of the fountain, fingers trailing through the cold water. My wolf was restless tonight, pacing beneath my ribs like she couldn't settle. The bond hummed faintly in my chest, growing stronger every day whether I wanted it to or not.

Footsteps crunched on gravel behind me. ...