The Councilman staggered backward, his voice trembling. "You've summoned the Guardian of the Blackwood. It only wakes when the Severing Stone is claimed. And it doesn't like claimants."
The ground cracked just beyond the altar, roots snapping as if something massive was forcing its way up from below. The smell hit next damp earth, old stone, and the faint, coppery tang of blood that had been spilled centuries ago.
Branches split, and a shape emerged. It moved like a wolf, but its body was made of shadows and antler-like horns curled from its skull. Its eyes glowed the same deep red as Aria's, and when it looked at her, she felt the bond thin, unformed, but undeniable.
Kael's grip tightened on his weapon. "If it's bonded to you, you might be able to control it."
She kept her gaze locked on the creature. "And if I can't?"
"Then we all die."
The Guardian stepped forward, its paws leaving scorch marks in the earth. The blade in Aria's hand pulsed, urging her toward it.
