The pedestals pulsed with promises of power. Samantha stared at hers, remembering how it felt to be powerless as a human. The ability to permanently absorb powers, not just borrow them... she could be unstoppable.
Marcus studied his offering. Pure immortality without the constant war between vampire and wolf natures. No more struggling for control. Just clean, perfect power.
Even Kai hesitated before his pedestal. Complete mastery over his wolf form meant never fearing the loss of control again. Never worrying about hurting others when phasing or fully transformed as a werewolf.
Maya and Lucas exchanged glances at their gifts. Powers that would make them apex predators, beyond anything their grandfather had taught them.
"Time grows short," the Ancient voices warned. "Choose."
Marcus moved toward Samantha, his mind still working on that mistranslated word. "Wait. Before we decide—"
