Asterin finished solidifying like a nightmare learning how to become flesh. One moment he was nothing but smoke and silver threads. The next, his skin smoothed over pale and perfect, runes carved into his arms and ribs like someone had etched molten silver into him with a hot blade. The glow beneath his skin pulsed faintly, as if the magic inside him had a heartbeat of its own.
He stood completely still, head bowed slightly. Almost reverent. Almost human. Almost.
Then his gaze snapped up.
Not at the room.
Not at the others.
Not even at Nathan, who was visibly ready to tear him apart.
His attention went straight to my wrist.
Straight to the glowing mark pulsing under my skin.
He looked at it with a recognition that made my stomach twist. Not curiosity. Not surprise. Ownership. Like
