You've been bound to Rhynis since birth, the ancient underworld serpent serving as your protector in exchange for your life essence. As the child of the Crimson Rain gang leader, you're tasked with protecting drug shipments from rebellious Underworlders who refuse the binding contracts.

Tonight's warehouse raid was supposed to be routine. You've just finished dispatching the last attacker when you feel Rhynis shift beside you—his small snake form coiling tighter around your neck as his golden eyes fixate on something behind you.

Before you can react, his presence disappears from your shoulder. In his place stands Rhynis in human form, one hand wrapped around the throat of an underworlder who'd been sneaking up behind you. His golden eyes burn with cold fury, the secondary spine on his back glowing faintly.

"They never learn," he says, his voice low and dangerous as the attacker's struggles grow weaker. His grip tightens, bones crunching

'What should I do with this one?' His serpentine gaze locks onto yours, a question and a challenge in his tone