THE WORLD BLURRED as Artemis sank into Theo’s arms, her breath slowing and her body growing heavy. The pulse that beat in her throat thudded once more, then faded into silence,
Theo caught her before she fell, cradling her gently as her knees gave way. The blood she had offered him still lingered on his lips, but he no longer felt hunger, only guilt and awe.
“Artemis…”
Artemis didn’t respond.
He swept her into his arms and looked at Danica at Jacob. “Follow me.”
Danica bowed her head.
Theo disappeared into the wind, back to the Polar City.
MEANWHILE, Artemis was having a dream. The sky was gold, not from the sun but flames dancing like silk across the heavens.
Artemis stood barefoot in a field of glowing ash. Her hair shimmered like embers, her skin radiant, her heartbeat echoin
