The gods descended once more, their forms cloaked in fire and light, their voices shaking the earth.
"This cannot continue," one boomed. "The Shadow cannot be killed. It is eternal."
"Then what do we do?" Kael snarled, his wolf snapping, his claws digging into scorched earth.
Another god spoke, softer, crueler. "The witch must sacrifice herself. Her fire feeds the Shadow. Only in her death can it starve."
Aradia trembled, her fire flickering weakly. Deep in her chest, she knew it was true—her flames had always fed it, even as they fought.
Kael roared, his green eyes blazing, his wolf clawing for release. "No! You will not take her. You will not demand her death. I would burn the stars before I let her go!"
The gods faltered. Their flames dimmed. For the first time, they looked not like divine judgment—but like cowards.
And Aradia stood between them, her voice shaking but strong. "If I must burn to save him… then so be it."
Kael's howl shook the heavens