First came the request.

Then the barter.

Then the denial.

And then?

The rage. Slowly simmering like a boiling pot. Inching ever closer to the top, reaching to escape and spill over.

Then the red.

Claws split flesh as they unsheathe, and the monstrous grotesque nails fully extend. Itching to snuff out the cause of the burning rage. Seeking to calm the infuriated Beast within. Fingers reflexively flex as bones pop and crack.

Then movement. Quick and precise. Delicate skin shreds as the claws sink into the body.

Then silence.

Ash piled on the ground, smeared on the walls. A cold, uncaring gaze.

The Beast, once enraged, now soothed. A content, almost blissful smile spread across its hideous maw.

But now it was aware. Aware that traitors surrounded it. With their fancy clothes and fake smiles, all hiding their true intentions.

Trust shattered.

But it would remember. She would remember. And together, they would prepare.