Diana's expression grew serious. "That's the thing, Ethan. For generations, our families have paid astronomical amounts for protection from beings that could atomize entire armies without breaking a sweat. We've always known about the Origin Families—the ancient bloodlines that control millions of supernaturals, creatures with power that makes nuclear weapons look like firecrackers."
Thomas nodded grimly. Everyone in their circle understood this hierarchy. The supernatural world had rules, and the Origin Families enforced them while staying completely out of human politics.
"Well," Diana continued, "apparently all those Origin Families—every single ancient bloodline we thought was the top of the supernatural food chain—they're all middle management."
The silence that followed was deafening.
"Middle management?" Elena whispered.
