The Dawn Raid

The pounding on the front door came at exactly 6:47 AM, shattering the peaceful quiet of the Mercer mansion. Sylvie jolted awake in Evander's arms, her heart hammering against her ribs as the sound echoed through their bedroom.

"What is that?" she whispered, her voice thick with sleep and sudden fear.

Evander was already moving, sliding out of bed and reaching for his robe. His face was grim in th