Night fell rapidly over Tuntadel, wrapping the university in a cold, restless darkness.Inside the central strategy room of the Tradition Faction, a single large map of Tuntadel and the surrounding city lay flat on the round stone table. A single flickering oil lamp lit the space, casting long, dramatic shadows across the faces of the warriors gathered around it.Baron stood at the head of the table. To his right stood Juliana, her hand resting close to his on the table's edge. To his left stood Mike, looking much calmer now that Ayomide was safe. Standing alongside them were Bolton in his new human form, Felicia, Samuel, John, and Knox, who had just returned from his secret forest training."Alright, everyone," Baron spoke, his voice low, magnetic, and commanding absolute attention. "Let's review where we stand.""Dustin confirmed that Donald has been officially taken by the Vance family," Juliana reported, her voice clear and sharp. "They used federal authority to strip Dustin of ju

Miles away from the university, a sleek convoy of three dark-blue armored SUVs sped down the quiet, tree-lined highway of Rockwood Road, it was an escort movement like a politician.In the middle vehicle—a custom-built, heavy Blue Bird 3 armored transport—sat Lord Smith, Juliana’s father. He leaned back against the leather seat, resting both hands on his golden cane, his face solemn as he reviewed corporate documents on a glass tablet.Suddenly—KABOOOOOM!A massive, armor-piercing anti-vehicle rocket exploded directly into the engine block of the leading SUV!The front vehicle burst into a ball of orange fire, flipping violently through the air, crashing onto the asphalt, and scattering flaming debris across all four lanes!All the vehicle on the road came to a halt at the sound of the terrible blast, as they started to go into panic and Tension."AMBUSH! AMBUSH!" the Blue Bird driver in Lord Smith's vehicle screamed, slamming on the heavy brakes! Tires shrieked against the road as t

Knox stood under the cold rain, staring at his cousin. His mind was spinning, completely paralyzed by the words that had just come out of Caleb's mouth."What... what are you talking about, Caleb?!" Knox shouted over the sound of the rain, his voice trembling with a mix of terror and confusion. "Tell me everything! Who did the Vance family take?! What is happening to our pack back home?!"Caleb coughed, clutching his wet jacket tighter around his shoulders."Knox, please—""Why are you the only one I'm seeing?!" Knox pressed on, stepping closer. "Did the rest of the clan agree to work for the Vance family?! How much are they being paid to do their dirty work?! How could an honorable wolf clan let themselves be turned into mercenaries?!"In a panic, Knox reached into his pocket, pulling out his phone to dial his uncle, the pack leader."Stop!" Caleb yelled, reaching out and snatching Knox's wrist. "Don't do that!""I have to call your dad, Caleb!" Knox snapped. "I need to know what's g

The morning sun hung low over the private estate of the Smith family, casting long, gold-and-silver rays across the vast marble courtyard. High iron fences and thick stone walls surrounded the property, but today, every single inch of the perimeter was crawling with armed guards. Over fifty elite Blue Bird soldiers stood in full tactical gear, their rifles held high, scanning the perimeter following the deadly ambush on Rockwood Road.Deep inside the grand, high-ceilinged sitting room, the air was warm and smelled faintly of burning cedar wood. Heavy velvet curtains framed the towering glass windows, and a fire crackled quietly in the hearth.Lord Smith sat in a wide leather armchair near the center of the room. He leaned back comfortably, resting both hands over the rounded head of his golden cane. His dark eyes were tired, but his posture remained upright, dignified, and utterly unfazed by the storm outside.Sitting on the leather sofa directly opposite him was Commander Dustin. The

The morning sun rose cold and pale over Tuntadel University, sending thin beams of light through the small dorm window. Knox pulled on his jacket, zipping it up to his chin before checking his backpack for his lecture notes.He turned toward the small bed in the corner, where Caleb sat wrapped in a blanket, looking exhausted and quiet."I'm heading out for morning lectures now, Caleb," Knox said softly, stepping closer to the bed. "Listen to me carefully. Stay inside this room. Keep the door locked, keep the blinds down, and don't open for anyone unless it's me or Baron."Caleb looked up, nodding eagerly with wide, innocent eyes. "I understand, Knox. I won't move an inch. I know how dangerous it is for me to be seen on campus.""Good," Knox said, putting a hand on his cousin's shoulder. "Baron and Dean Lashley are working on keeping you safe. Once the Tradition group calls another meeting tonight, we will figure out our next move against the Vance family. Just rest up and stay hidden.