The deeper they went, the darker the forest became.

The light from the world beyond the ridge seemed to fade with every step. The trees grew twisted, their bark blackened and slick with dew that glowed faintly blue under the half-light. The air thickened — cold and heavy — carrying whispers that didn’t belong to wind or wolves.

Ronan led the way, blade drawn, his movements cautious but sure. Evelyn followed, her senses sharpened, her Moonfire humming faintly under her skin. Each pulse ...