Silence reigned in the cavernous war chamber, the weight of grim expectation hanging thick in the air. At the head of the massive oak table, Ryker stared down the gathered assembly of his most trusted generals and advisors.

"You all understand the stakes we face," he began in a low rumble. "Nicolai Vassago seeks to raise a Blood Army powerful enough to raze our kingdom to ashes. He fancies himself a true alpha while scorning our ancient ways."

Murmurs of derision rippled through the ranks. Ryker allowed them a moment to vent their outrage before raising a quelling hand.

"Vassago has grown overconfident by uniting a rabble of feral rogues...