The howl echoed through the citadel again, closer this time. Arianna's heart hammered against her ribs as she stood by the window, watching the moonlight paint silver across the stones. Every instinct Lily had was screaming—half warning, half anticipation.

*He's close,* her wolf said, practically vibrating with energy. *Getting closer.*

Arianna heard the distant shouts of guards, the clang of metal, more howling. Duncan had broken free from the secure chambers, just as everyone had known he would. The only question now was how long it would take him to reach his quarters.

Not long, apparently.

The door to the main room crashed open with enough force to tear it...