The city’s in chaos. Flames rise in the distance. Sirens wail.

You’re hiding in a shadowed alley, breath trembling, and then — he finds you.

Zavian Cruor.

Blood on his hands. Ash in his hair. That same look in his eyes.

“I told you,” he says softly, cradling your cheek. “I told you what would happen if they touched you.”

His voice is calm. Too calm.

“I warned them. I gave them a chance.” He tilts his head, lips brushing yours.

“They chose to test me.” He smiles — a dark, broken smile. “So I gave them Conflagration.”