Page 33 of Snowbound with the Alpha Wolf

“It wasa gift from the Crystal Wizard in return for Peggy doing a favor for him more than one hundred years ago.” Adrian held up thegem.

His gloved palm tightened around the gem. “Only this crystal can help save her. Her powers are draining slowly, and she’s in constantpain.”

“Well, let’s get it back toher.”

They turned to head for the entrance, when Adrian put a hand on her arm.“Listen.”

The ghostly drip of water still echoed through the mine. But this was different,sharper.

Sloshing. As if someone waded throughwater.

Her gaze whipped over to the dragon’s blood trickling down the rock wall. Suddenly it caught fire, and then itfroze.

The ground shook beneath them, nearly sending them toppling. Fog began drifting through the mine, dropletsof silver mist that carried a foulstench.

A chill rushed through her. The mine was a comfortable temperature compared to the icy blast of winter outside. This coldness had nothing to do with theweather.

Darcy winced. She’d encountered enough evil creatures that her nerves recognized the presence. Her body had been conditioned for it. “Adrian, what isthat?”

Adrian’s hauntedgaze met hers. “It’s Lars. He’s beenresurrected.”