Vex stood before us, tall and ancient, his real body finally free from the crystal prison that had held him. His red eyes never left mine, burning with an intensity that made my skin crawl. The golden light that had filled the chamber began to dim, as if his very presence was consuming it. The air felt heavy and cold.
Ezra stepped directly in front of me even though his ribs were badly bruised and every movement clearly caused him pain. Luca shifted into his wolf form, a low growl rumbling from deep in his chest. Marcus moved to stand at my side, his fists clenched tight and ready.
We were hurt, exhausted, and running on empty. But we absolutely would not back down.
Vex looked at the broken pieces of the Heart crystal scattered across the floor. He reached out and touched one fragment with a long finger. The piece turned completely black in an instant and crumbled to fine dust.
