CHAPTER NINETY FOUR – THE BOTCHED STRATEGY

Erik's anger seemed to deflate suddenly, replaced by a look of concern as his eyes met Anna's. "Anna," he said, his voice low and urgent. "Do you realize how much danger you've put yourself in by uncovering this?" Before Anna could respond, there was a sharp knock at the door. Cassius entered, his expression grave. "I sensed the tension," he said, looking between Erik and Anna. "What's happened?" Erik quickly filled Cassius in on Anna's discovery. The Beta's face darkened with each word. "This is worse than we feared," Cassius said. "Raphael has a lot of influence in the pack. If he's turning against you, Erik..." "I know," Erik cut him off. He turned to Anna, his eyes intense. "Anna, I need you to stay close to me from now on. We don't know how far this conspiracy reaches or what they might do if they realize we're onto them." Anna nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Of course, Erik. Whatever you need." As the three of them discussed their next moves, the air in