Alistair arrived at the Ashborne clan in a sleek black car. The moment it stopped in front of the mansion, he stepped out with his usual air of authority, not even sparing the vehicle a glance as he tossed the keys to one of his guards. Without a word, he walked toward the entrance, his presence enough to make the vampire warriors lined up on both sides bow their heads in respect.
Inside, the heavy silence of the mansion greeted him, broken only by the faint shuffle of servants moving about. He made his way straight to his office. Once inside, his sharp eyes landed on the tiger mask that had been left out on the shelf. He frowned, quickly grabbing it before anyone else could notice. He slid open a drawer and tucked the mask safely inside, his movements swift and deliberate, as though hidi
