The bridge cracks under the creature’s weight. The sound is sharp enough to slice through the thin star-filled air. Dust lifts in trembling spirals as the structure shivers beneath us. The creature crawls forward with a motion that does not belong in this world. Its limbs bend in sickening ways, too many joints, too much shadow. Its teeth shine like shards of night. Its eyes burn with a hunger that feels personal.
My wolf does not wait for my mind to catch up. She surges forward in a flash of silver light, planting herself between Adam and the monster. Her hackles rise. Her stance is wide and braced, already ready to die if she must. I feel her through the bond, fierce and certain, a living shield.
Adam shifts beside us. Bones crack in a swift violent rhythm. Golden fur bursts across his
