The Hollowfang's power pulsed through her now, not creeping but beating—a heartbeat older than language itself. It didn't speak in words, but in promises: strength beyond limits, vengeance made real, the end of weakness forever. It promised her power—the kind that could never be broken. The temptation was overwhelming. She could feel it in her bones, the vast strength waiting to be drawn from her, like water from a deep well. It promised a future where no one could control her, where she would be unstoppable.
All she had to do was let go.
Far off, like a memory, Kai's hand rested on her shoulder. Warm, trembling. His voice reached her like a sound underwater, distant and fading.
"Varaan—look at me."
She turned, not entirely by her own choice, and met his gaze.
