The roar did not sound natural.
That was the first thing everyone realized.
It did not resemble the cry of a beast.
Nor the call of something living.
It sounded ancient.
Wrong.
Like the sky itself had opened its mouth and screamed.
The entire palace of Nacrifa fell silent instantly.
The chandeliers above the grand ceremonial hall flickered violently.
Crimson flames lining the walls dimmed unnaturally.
Even the air changed.
Heavier.
Colder.
Watching.
Sebastian stood motionless at the center of the hall.
But the shadows beneath his feet had already begun moving again.
Slowly.
Like living creatures waking from sleep.
Aliena felt it immediately through the bond.
The shift.
The terrifying stillness inside him.
Not panic.
Worse.
Recognition.
Her chest tightened slightly.
"Sebastian…"
His gaze remained fixed on the dark horizon visible through the massive palace windows.
Far beyond the kingdom.
Beyond the forests.
Beyond the mountains.
Something was coming.
