The wolf pup whimpered, then its small aura merged with the mark on Liv's body. A new bond formed wild, profound, eternal.
Liv gasped then went limp, collapsing into unconsciousness.
Jay pulled her into his arms his hands shaking uncontrollably. He looked at his father. At his mother, lying lifeless. At the blood everywhere. At his child alive, breathing amid the devastation he himself had caused.
He let out a hollow laugh then broke down crying.
The sobs of a son who had killed his own father. The sobs of a father who had saved his child with blood. The sobs of a Zelthar who paid for the future with the past.
The Archmage stood, his expression grim.
"Jay," he said sharply. "This is not over."
Jay turned slowly his eyes red, empty, broken.
"The pure Zelthar blood has been awakened," the Archmage continued. "If left unchecked, this flow will destroy everything. Enemies, allies no distinction."
He raised his staff.
"End it. Now."
