The c***k in the Heartstone widened with a sound like the earth tearing in half.
White-gold light poured out in violent pulses, each one brighter than the last. The cavern shook so hard that wolves stumbled, stalactites shattered, and dust rained from above like falling ash. Aurelia shielded her face, heart pounding, every breath trembling with dread.
Whatever was inside that stone was older than the Council. Older than the packs. Older than the bond itself.
The High Warden raised his staff high, robes whipping in the choking wind.
“Awaken, First Bondborn! The Council commands your return!”
Aurelia screamed over the roar, “Stop! You don’t know what you’re unleashing!”
The High Warden turned toward her, voice cold and triumphant.
“Oh, we know exactly what we unleash. We unleash the c
