The den reeked of blood.
It dripped in slow rivulets down the stone walls, pooled around the broken bodies of hunters, and clung to the sharp edge of Lyra’s senses. Her heart was still hammering from the blast that had left her hands glowing, her body trembling with a power she hadn’t asked for. A power that felt alive beneath her skin.
The silence was suffocating.
Kael stood like a statue, golden eyes fixed on her with something close to reverence—and fear. His broad chest rose and fell, muscles taut, blood dripping from his claws, but he didn’t move.
Darius, on the other hand, prowled closer, slow, deliberate, silver eyes gleaming in the half-light. His lips curved into that dangerous smile that sent a shiver spiraling through her chest, equal parts dread and hunger.
“You felt it, d
