Meanwhile – Moscow, Russia
Location: The Black Duma – Underground Council Hall of the Novarev Family
Beneath the frostbitten capital of Russia, deeper than any subway tunnel or bunker, sat the Black Duma—a circular chamber forged from obsidian and onyx, humming with forbidden energy. A cold, silver flame burned at its center, suspended in the air above an altar shaped like a crown of thorns.
Seated around the room were thirteen individuals, draped in black furs and dark silks. Their eyes glowed faintly, not from magic—but from something older. Bloodlines touched by ancient entities, hidden away until the world's fall tore the veil open.
At the head of the table sat Gregor Novarev, the Patriarch.
He was tall, impossibly pale, with pure black eyes that reflected nothing. His hands were clasped before him, his voice calm as winter death.
"It has begun. The Paulissens have finally made a move."
