The sharp clang of steel echoed in Klaus's mind, accompanied by the roar of an invisible crowd. His vision blurred, overtaken by the sight of shadowy figures falling one by one under his blade. A great beast loomed above them all, its eyes like molten fire, its roar shaking the earth. Blood splattered across his hands, warm and sticky, as the beast lunged at him—fangs bared, claws stretched.
Klaus awoke with a jolt, his breath ragged and his heart pounding in his chest. Darkness cloaked the dormitory room, save for the faint moonlight streaming through the narrow window. He ran a trembling hand through his sweat-dampened hair, his eyes darting around the room until they landed on the familiar silhouette near the foot of his bed.
