BY SUNRISE, the royal chambers of the House of Veylor were already alive with activity.
The scent of burning sage drifted through the air as servants rushed about, carrying herbs, crystal bowls, and oil-soaked cloths.
Outside, the sentinels stood guard, while within, the parliamentary members gathered for an urgent meeting.
Vaelora wasn't available for the meeting, seeing as she had left early for the Lunar Sanctum, where the priestesses awaited her presence.
Preparations for the Blood Moon demanded her full attention. Every ward, every rune, every barrier had to be renewed before nightfall.
The Lunar Sanctum was the abode of the priestesses. During the Blood Moon, the virgin she-wolves who had experienced their first shift, were usually kept within the Sanctum until the night was
