~Ezra POV~
The scout's report of Elias's Visaya army closing in had the estate in a frenzy, my runes buzzing as I warded the war room. Annalyn clutched the focus stone, her pregnancy slowing her but her eyes fierce, while Lucas barked orders, Calix sharpened his knife, and Matteo scanned his tablet. Mara and Russo, both warded, stood ready—Mara's Visaya runes flickering, Russo's smirk hiding his nerves. The Moon Alpha's voice whispered of betrayal, and with war knocking, we needed countermeasures to stop Elias's advance.
"We've got hours, tops," I said, my runes glowing as I traced a map. "Scouts say they're coming from the east. We need eyes on their movements."
Lucas growled, leaning over the map. "I'll lead a scout team. Hit and run, slow 'em down."
Annalyn shook her head, the stone pulsing. "Too risky. We use your drones, Matteo—keep us hidden."
Matteo nodded, his fingers flying over his tablet. "Got three drones ready. I'll map their camps, find weak spots."
