Arin's POV
Before I could even scream, the Shadow Wolf who resembled Malik sprang at me. Silver light exploded from my hands as I flung myself backward. With a shriek that made my ears ring like nails on glass, the creature struck my magic barrier. However, it continued. It continued to approach, claws outstretched, those dreadful black eyes fixed on mine.
"It's not Malik!" With a roar, Kael snatched a silver blade from the weapon's chest.
"I know!" Dodging another swipe, I shouted back. "But it's having his face!"
The creature that resembled my friend parted its lips, and as it did, the words sounded like frost. "I'm sorry, Arin. Are you still attempting to save everyone?" Malik's voice had changed. Like the bottom of a frozen lake, this voice was older and colder. "Even when you know it's hopeless."
Beside me, Jaxon appeared, his healing magic encircling my arms like cozy mitts. "Do whatever you're going to do quickly. More are entering through the windows."
