Alaric sat in his study, the ambient glow of the setting sun casting a crimson light over the room. The Grimoire's energy still thrummed within him, almost like a heartbeat, and he could feel the shadows settle deeper into his essence with each passing moment. There was a subtle yet undeniable shift in his aura; he had harnessed powers that had been long hidden and forbidden, and now his presence reflected it.
He picked up the phone, its dark, polished surface cool against his fingers, and dialed Lady Elara's private number. Each ring echoed in the room, resonating with a sense of purpose, until finally, her familiar voice answered, calm but edged with curiosity.
"Alaric," Lady Elara greeted, her tone conveying her usual poise. "To what do I owe the pleasure of this call?"
