Alaric sat in the grand study of his mansion, a glass of blood-red wine in hand, the weight of recent events pressing down on him. The atmosphere around him was quiet, still, with only the soft crackling of the fireplace breaking the silence. His mind raced as he considered the upcoming battle, the alliances, and the Hargrove family's inevitable move.
Just as he took another sip of his drink, his phone buzzed, vibrating lightly on the polished wooden surface of the desk. It was a call from Viktor Blackwood. Alaric's eyebrow arched slightly as he set down his glass and picked up the phone.
"Viktor," Alaric greeted, his voice calm but curious. "What's the news?"
Viktor's voice came through the speaker, low and urgent. "I've received some intel from one of the rogue families. They've been keeping a close eye on the Hargroves."
Alaric leaned back in his chair, listening intently. "And?"
