Morning rays streamed through the windows of Alaric's new mansion, the light casting a warm glow over the pristine hallways. Alaric stood in front of the mirror, adjusting his school uniform. Today felt different. There was an undercurrent of tension buzzing in his mind, but he couldn't quite place it. Perhaps it was the words Evelyn had said the day before—warning him about the presence of new werewolf families in the city. He knew there was something bigger at play, something dangerous.
After giving one final check to his uniform, he headed downstairs where his mother was busy preparing breakfast. Lucy, his little sister, was already seated, cheerfully munching on toast. Alaric grabbed his bag and gave them a brief smile.
"Heading out early today?" his mother asked, noticing the focused look on his face.
"Yeah, meeting up with friends before class," Alaric replied casually, though his mind was elsewhere.
