The witch’s final words still echoed in the air like a death sentence.
“Your dark alpha blood is calling. It’s time to claim it.”
River’s breath caught.
Her fingers tightened around the amulet at her chest, the magic core of her father pulsing like a frantic heartbeat.
Dark magic exploded toward River like a tidal wave.
River barely had time to brace herself.
She closed her eyes—
held her breath—
clutched the amulet—
And waited for the unbearable agony.
But…
Nothing.
Not even a sting.
Her eyes opened.
The witch stood frozen mid-air, arm still extended, confusion spreading across her face like spreading cracks in glass.
River looked down at herself in disbelief.
She was—
fine.
Untouched.
The witch blinked hard.
“Impossible…” she whispered.
Then she snarled and shot anot
