Ember Frost’s POV

I rested inside the shell, stiff and icy, my body drawn inward like an unborn child sheltered in darkness. There was no fear left in me, only stillness. My heartbeat was slow and steady, my breathing shallow and even. If someone had seen my face, they would have found no pain there, only peace.

Tiny flecks of silver light leaked from my body. They’d done what they were meant to do. I watched as they faded, one by one, until there was nothing left, just the quiet ...