The celebration had lasted three days.
Alex stood on the ridge overlooking the facility, watching his people laugh and dance around the massive bonfire. For the first time in months, there was genuine joy. Genuine hope.
The Old Ones were defeated. The Key was gone. The Beginning was contained.
But Alex couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong.
The darkness was still there, surging beneath his skin. The hunger was still calling. But it was different now. Quieter. More controlled.
He was in control.
Sebastian appeared beside him. "The Council has sent another message. They want to meet with you. Immediately."
Alex turned to face him. "What about?"
Sebastian shook his head. "They didn't say. But it sounded urgent."
Alex nodded slowly. "Then we go."
The journey to the Coun
