The night exploded into chaos.
The western wall crumbled under the force of black flame, sending shards of ancient stone crashing into the courtyard. Smoke thickened the air, carrying with it the stench of blood, ash, and something far older — sorcery. Wolves howled across the mountains, alarm cries echoing through the night.
Kael burst through the gates of the Alpha Keep, shifting mid-leap.
His wolf form — massive, obsidian-furred, and crowned with streaks of silver — landed in the courtyard with a roar that shook the ground.
The enemy was already inside.
Dark wolves with crimson eyes and warped claws — Nightshade warriors twisted by ancient magic — swarmed the outer yard, tearing through guards and sentries with brutal efficiency. Behind them, cloaked warlocks wielded silverfire, th
