The vault became silent except for Landon’s ragged breathing.

Axel’s elite guards moved with disciplined efficiency. They secured Thomas first, fastening silver-infused restraints around his wrists and ankles. The metal suppressed his wolf and prevented him from

The Lunar Scepter did not resemble a weapon.

It stood upright in the center of the hidden chamber, suspended within a column of moonlight. Its shaft appeared to have been carved from white wood, though silver veins moved beneath its surface like living blood.

The private training ground of the Supreme Citadel lay behind walls forty feet high.

Crushed black stone covered the field. Reinforced targets stood at measured distances, and protective runes had been carved into the surrounding walls to contain Alpha-level energy.