"Or..." I said, pieces clicking into place. Everyone looked at me. "Or she's completing her own preparations. Something big. Something that needs time."
"The ritual," Garrett realized. "The one Drake mentioned. Binding divine power to mortal form."
"Takes preparation," Thea confirmed. "Blood circles. Sacrifices. Channeling enough dark magic to attempt something that is insane? She'd need at least an hour to set up."
"So we're not the only ones racing a clock," Liana said.
Garrett nodded grimly. "Either way, we use this hour."
I turned to the assembled leaders. Forced my voice steady. Authoritative. "Marcus, final weapons check. Make sure everyone has Moonbane weapons, not just amulets. Liana, position your mobile reserves—I want them ready to deploy in thirty seconds, not three minute
