(Caleb's POV)
The Moonstone struck my chest on the ride back. Aria's order kept time with every hoofbeat: *Do not return to my domain.*
I had ridden to the Sanctuary to reclaim my mate. I rode away with the Moonstone still in its pouch and her title ringing in my ears.
My apology had offered her the same den and the same pack that nearly killed her. Even after she refused, I wanted to call her cruel.
Rot reached me before the Silver Moon border. It smothered the pine and thickened with every yard.
I drove my exhausted steed through the last trees and pulled the reins so hard the animal cried out.
A column of black energy twisted above the center of camp, rising from the ritual altar into the gray sky.
A greasy film shone across the ground and clung to my boots when I dismounted.
Wa
