Caius's POV
My footsteps rang through the marble halls of the Vampire Court. Servants bowed as I passed, their eyes downcast, fearing my look. I straightened my jacket, preparing myself for the show ahead.
Father waited in the throne room, ringed by his ever-present advisors. The Vampire King hadn't left this castle in over a century, yet his reach stretched far beyond these walls.
"My son returns," he stated, silencing the court with a wave of his pale hand. "What news of the werewolves?"
I knelt before the dais, a show of respect I didn't feel. "The Alpha suffers from his curse as the full moon approaches. His power weakens by the hour."
"And the Ruby Wolf?" Father leaned forward, his ancient eyes gleaming with attention.
"Her powers grow," I replied carefully, giving only what served my purpose. "The markings spread across her skin, responding to some external force."
I omitted Ronan's escape and Kieran's study. Some secrets were better kept, even from a king.
