15

Moments later, a messenger rushed into the Dax his face etched with urgency.

"Alpha, your stepbrother has indeed returned to our territory, and there are indications that he has aligned himself with the Vageries. We need to act swiftly."

Dax's grip tightened on his sword

"We need to locate him and assess the threat he poses. This could be our chance to strike a decisive blow against the Vageries if we act with precision."

The pack members exchanged glances, a mixture of fear and resolve evident in their eyes. As the scouting party set out, the night air thickened with anticipation, leaving the pack and their fate hanging in the balance.

Under the pale light of the moon, the scouting party ventured into the depths of the forest, their senses heightened, and their every step careful. The pack's survival depended on uncovering the truth behind Dax's stepbrothers motive and neutralizing the threat of the Vageries.

As they prowled through the tall towering oak trees, a chilling howl pierc