The war room beneath Kane's manor had been carved from living stone three centuries ago, its walls inscribed with protective runes that pulsed with faint golden light. Tonight, those runes seemed dimmer than usual, as if even ancient magic could sense the approaching storm.
Luna stood before a detailed map of New Moon City, her silver hair catching the lamplight as she traced potential battle lines with her finger. The soul contract mark on her throat glowed softly—a constant reminder of the bond that tied her life to Victor's. She could feel his presence like warmth against her spine, even when he wasn't touching her.
"The Grand Assembly was supposed to bring peace," she murmured, not looking up from the map. "Funny how these things work out."
Victor's reflection appeared in the polish
