~Kaida Orion POV~
I inhale and exhale softly. "So I am like her."
His hand covers mine. "Yes. Bound to heart and pack."
My gaze drifts to the empty sarcophagus, "Your Keeper", and to his unwavering love. My heart pulses, fierce.
A tear slips. "Will it help?"
He smiles softly. "It anchors us, and It protects."
That night, I feel stronger...but also more targeted. I glance at Lupus. He meets my gaze, concern deep.
We finish ritual, as the runes glow steady blue. The temple feels still, powerful, safe.
Lupus nods at Biat. "Exit soon."
As we turn, the sarcophagus lid shifts slightly, stone scraping stone. We freeze. Dust drifts.
Biat curses low. "It's opening."
Lupus draws me behind him. "Be ready."
The coffin slides open fully. A long-forgotten skeleton lies within, wearing a wolf-pelt cloak...bones carved with ancient runes.
Then: a chilling howl echoes....not distant, but from the very sarcophagus.
I step back, pulse racing. The runes glow fiercely.
