Talia POV
The cabin shuddered.
Snow spilled from the rafters in a cold cascade as something heavy struck the outer wall—wood groaning, timbers flexing under sudden strain. The hearth flared in response, embers snapping upward as if startled awake.
Talia was already on her feet.
Fire coiled beneath her skin, sharp and alert, rising to the surface without summons. The codex slid from her lap to the floor, its pages fluttering once. Before settling open, symbols flared faintly as they aligned with her pulse.
Outside, the forest went still, watching.
Kaela’s presence rose slowly in her mind, not sharp this time, but searching.
Was it worth it? Her wolf asked.
Talia stilled, breathing steadily.
We left our mate, Kaela continued.
Talia did not answer. Kaela was quieter now. I’m trying
