Dawn found Jax still in the ravine, shivering beneath the damp cloak of leaves and moss that had served as his blanket. The amulet rested heavy against his chest, iron warm even in the chill morning air. Hunger gnawed at his stomach like a small animal, but curiosity burned hotter. He had survived the night—something he had not expected—and the world felt different because of it.
He touched the metal again, fingers tentative.
