People screamed. The entire hall erupted into chaos.
Several nobles jumped to their feet. Others scrambled toward the exit. Children shrieked. Council members backed away, tripping over each other. A servant fainted on the spot. Plates and cups clattered across the floor.
The warriors stationed at the edges of the hall immediately drew their swords. Their blades rang loudly as they stepped between the crowd and the rapidly transforming bodies.
"Eirene!" Alaric shouted, but the voice that tore out of her throat was no longer hers.
He watched Eirene in horror as she let out a growl, part animal, part human. He had known her for years. They had shared the same bed. She had been loyal to the royal house for years. Seeing her body change so quickly sent a surge of disbelief through him.
