Ethan stood by the window, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the sun dipped slowly, surrendering to the velvet rise of the coming Blood Moon.

A knock sounded at the door.

“Enter,” he said calmly.

Leo stepped inside and bowed.

“You asked for the final report on the ritual preparations, Alpha.”

Ethan turned to face him, his expression steady. “Has the Moon Nexus been cleaned of old energy?” Ethan asked, his voice deep and commanding.

Leo stepped forward, holding a scroll, his ...