“At last, Bard,” said the fire spirit. His voice, like one long hiss, the words twisting in his mouth, sent a shiver through Jack. “At last you summon me.” Jack’s face felt blistered, but he didn’t dare move away. “Or perhaps you have summoned me?” The spirit cackled, amused. “You speak of the cold ashes. Yes, it was the only way I could think to gain your attention.”
