The night refused to sleep.
A cold breeze drifted through Ashwood, carrying with it the scent of charred timber and fresh earth. Although the battle had ended hours ago, no one dared return to their normal lives. Warriors patrolled the village walls while anxious families remained inside their homes, praying the dawn would come without another attack.
Beyond the gates, hundreds of campfires burned across the valley. The Vampire Kingdom was waiting.
Inside the council hall, Alpha Darius dismissed the last of his guards. "Double the patrols," he ordered. "If the vampire army moves even a single step toward Ashwood, I want to know." "Yes, Alpha." The guards bowed before leaving.
As the heavy doors closed, Adrian quietly stepped toward the nearest window. "They won't attack tonight." Dari
