Bab 170: Infernal Wolf

The wolf was swollen with infernal energy, straining dangerously close to bursting. Chaotic crackles of mana arced throughout its soul, which was beginning to show signs of fragmentation. Holding my breath, I reached up, tail tensing, and gingerly touched the wolf's head. A low growl reverberated deep in its throat as its lips curled back, revealing serrated two-inch teeth. Its fur bristled, hardening into long, thin spikes. As the spines dug into my hand, I recoiled, wincing, and the wolf's eyes narrowed. 

The monster bared its teeth and growled again, and I froze, gripped with fear. It lowered its head, but instead of striking, it pushed against my palm until I reluctantly began stroking it again. Its fur softened to silk beneath by bloody fingers, and it whined, eyes closing to slits. After a minute, I tried to crawl away, but a heavy paw on my chest stopped me in my tracks, sending a shudder of pain through my broken body.