Ryker's rage had become a wildfire that consumed every corridor, every servant, and every soldier who dared meet his gaze.
He stood at the balcony overlooking his private training grounds, watching hundreds of vampires kneel before him. Banners bearing the crest of the third prince fluttered under the crimson moon, a sea of black armor and drawn blades.
Ryker spread his arms wide, his voice echoing through the night.
"Cain believes himself untouchable. My father dares humiliate me before the council." His fangs flashed in the dim light, his crimson eyes glowing like embers. "Tonight, we reclaim what is rightfully mine. We will cut down Cain and anyone foolish enough to stand with him!"
A roar erupted from the gathered crowd.
Among them stood advisors and minor clan leaders, those disgruntled with Edward's rule and eager for an excuse to rebel. Their loyalties weren't truly Ryker's, but their ambitions made them deaf to reason.
