To Become The Monster
she continued, “their blood responds before their minds do. That is why mates feel one another across distance. Why separation feels like illness.”
Her gaze drifted knowingly toward me, though Mae had asked.
“That is also why denying it can be fatal.”
The candles flickered, shadows crawling across the walls.
“Not everyone who is recognized should be turned,” the Ancient One said. “But those who ask. Those who step forward and choose the monster willingly—”
She leaned toward us, voice lowering.
“They almost always survive.”
Her eyes locked fully onto mine.
“Because the change does not create the darkness,” she said. “It only gives it permission.”