The forest on Lucien's side of the mountains was darker than the Romano estate woods.
The trees grew thicker, the ground rougher, the air colder as if even the wind knew better than to move freely there.
A fire burned low in the center of the clearing, its orange glow licking across the rough bark of surrounding pines.
Lucien stood beside it with his hands clasped behind his back.
His posture was relaxed.
Too relaxed for a man preparing for war.
Across from him several wolves knelt around a crude wooden table spread with maps and estate sketches.
One of them lifted his head.
"The infiltration group is ready."
Lucien didn't look at him.
Instead he stared into the flames.
Patience had always been his strongest weapon.
Years ago Alessandro had defeated him in open war.
Lucien had learned from that humiliation.
Direct attacks were stupid.
Pressure was smarter.
Division was perfect.
He finally spoke.
"Status."
Another wolf leaned forward over the map.
