In the quiet shadows of Lila’s fortress—deep within the upper floors of the Crimson Circle—a hushed gathering had begun.It was made up of the few remaining original elders from the late Alpha Kaden’s reign, and several of Lila’s self-appointed advisors, who now wore the ceremonial robes of power like borrowed skin.

They sat around a stone table, candlelight flickering off their anxious faces, voices low and strained with dread.

One of the older elders, Elder Tharon, who had once sworn ...