My Mother’s expression hardened as she processed the information, the strategic wheels turning in her mind. "Gather the warriors. We will investigate this disturbance immediately," she commanded, her voice cutting through the tension in the air.

The beta wolf nodded, turning to relay the orders to the gathered pack warriors. As he hurried off, Mother turned her gaze back to me, the weight of her scrutiny heavy on my shoulders.

"Rio," she began, her tone firm but tinged with concern. "We ...