LYCAN KING CASSIAN
The crimson glow of the hearth flickered across the stone walls, casting shadows that danced like phantoms. The warmth barely touched the cold that coiled around my bones. I lay sprawled on my bed, head tilted back against the carved wooden headboard, a goblet of wine in my hands. The deep red liquid swirled lazily as I rolled my wrist, watching it slosh against the sides, thick as blood.
A sip burned down my throat, the sensation dull compared to the storm brewing in my chest. It had been restless all evening, like a caged beast pacing behind my ribs.
A knock at the door.
I didn't move immediately. I simply let my fingers tighten around the goblet, relishing the way the glass threatened to splinter. Then, with a slow breath, I spoke.
"Enter."
