Elara, Gaia, Kevin, and Ragnar trudged back to the Nightshade pack’s territory, their bodies weary and spirits low. The sting of their failure was palpable, and a heavy silence hung over the group as they approached the pack’s mansion. They knew the news they carried would incite their Alpha’s wrath.

As they crossed the threshold, the pack members gathered around, their faces etched with curiosity and concern. The doors to Cade’s private sanctuary loomed ahead, and with each step, ...