Morozko could barely see through the fury of the storm.  Lightning split an amethyst birch in two, setting the jewel tree aflame.  From behind the fallen tree slunk an orange tabby.

“It is about time that you arrived,” purred Aym.

Morozko stopped in his tracks.  “Pus in boots?  How the hell did you get here?”

Aym laughed.  “I have my ways.  You look rather blue – sadness at my mistress’s disappearance must have taken a toll on you.  I would say that you are practically frozen in sorrow.”

Ivan rounded a corner on Greyback.  His eyes gaped wide.  “Something has changed,” he breathed.  “I can feel it in my soul,...