-----
A guttural cry tore from Ruby's throat as she stirred, her body trembling with pain. She shook her head, forcing herself back to consciousness. In the haze of her awakening, her mother's voice echoed gently in her mind, urging her to stay calm. This new form was larger than before, her mother warned, and it was vital that she remain composed.
Ruby groaned, her voice broken and strained. She called out for her mother, her words fragmented by grief. Augustus had died because of her. The weight of guilt crushed her, and tears welled in her enormous eyes as sorrow overwhelmed her.
High above, Hrimvaldr spotted the towering figure and flew to her side, his expression filled with disbelief. He called out, asking if it was truly her.
