Oscar's face was hard, reflecting tension and determination. Yet his breathing remained steady, as did his heartbeat. He was in complete control.

Only one last fight remained. When the night was over, everything would be settled.

A knock at the door pulled Oscar out of his thoughts. He blinked once and turned to see the door open. Philo and the others entered.

Oscar said little, just as he had before. He emphasised to Dom and Bogy that the palace had to be guarded to the utmost and that they had to be alert for the worst. They couldn't let their guard down—there could be another pack lurking in the shadows,...