*Julian*

The fire burns low in the courtyard. My Beta Mason sits in front of me. The castle looms behind, while shadows flicker in the light.

“I’m going to try to track the Nightborn tomorrow morning,” I say.

“Will you be going alone, or do you want me there with you?” Mason asks.

“No, I’ll go alone. It’ll be easier to remain unscented and unseen.”

“Understood,” Mason nods. “I’ll keep watch here while you’re gone.”

“I’ll report what I find in the morning,” I say. “We’ll have a meeting when I get back.”

Mason nods. “I’ll round everyone up. We’ll be ready.”

As the fire dies to embers, and the...