CHAPTER SEVENTEEN.

(OWEN'S POV)


It had been a month since I was banished from my pack's lands. During that time, I went to stay with my mother's family in their territory. It was the only place I could find refuge after being cast out so unceremoniously.

My only link back to my former pack were the discreet messages from my friend, James. Even though I had my father's number, I never called or texted him as I knew he was still mad at me for all that transpired.

But recently, James had sent me another text:


"Hey Owen, it's been a while since you heard from me. I hope you're doing well. But you need to know what's going on back home. James here. I've been keeping an eye on things like you asked. But recently, that witch Zoey is trying to make a power play. She wants to be named the new Alpha now that her father and Meliora are gone.


Although that was expected, isn't it too soon? She had no shame anyone would suspect her and her mom. Anyways, the elders shut her down saying she wasn't fit, but you know she won't give up that easily. Just wanted to give you a heads up, man. Let me know if you need anything else from this end."

So I sent him a message of gratitude containing, "Thank you for the critical update, my friend. I can't tell you how much I appreciate you keeping watch over the pack and letting me know what's happening, even after I've been exiled. And that's all I'll need for now, brother. Stay discreet and safe over there too."

I couldn't even bring myself to think of what's happening back at home without my heart clenching painfully. The allegations of Meliora killing her own father were so ludicrous, so outrageous, that I knew the truth had been twisted by someone with an ulterior motive.

But my dad, as the former Alpha's beta, was likely next in line for leadership according to pack tradition. I knew I had to warn him, to prevent him from falling into whatever trap had been laid for Meliora and her father.

That evening, I waited until I knew he would be home after work at the pack office, before calling him with a hidden number.

"Hello, who is this?" he answered gruffly after a few rings.

"Dad, it's me. Owen," I replied, my throat tightening unconsciously.

I heard him gasp. "Son! Are you alright out there? I already regret letting you go, I feel so alone without you. And without a wife for so long now..." He trailed off with a wince.

"I'm okay," I assured him, sidestepping his comments about missing me. We didn't have time for that. "I'm just calling to check on you. And to warn you."

"Warn me? About what?" The concern was evident in his voice.

I pressed on urgently. "I heard Zoey wanted to be crowned the new Alpha, but the elders refused her. I know it's only a matter of time before they look to you as the late Alpha's second to take over."

There was a weighted pause before he responded. "Yes, I suppose you're right about that."

"So when they do propose making you the Alpha, you have to reject that offer," I insisted. "It's not safe for you to take that mantle."

"Not safe?" He sounded bewildered. "Why? What are you talking about, son?"

I drew a fortifying breath before continuing. "You heard the news that Meliora killed herself and her father, right? That's an utter lie, dad. They were attacked and murdered, though I don't have proof of it yet." I explained.

"But think about it - whoever killed the ruling Alpha and his only heiress clearly wants control of the pack for themselves and also the Alpha's throne, so whoever tries to come in their way, will be killed." I concluded.

Another pause stretched between us, heavier this time, as the weight of my words sank in. Finally, he responded, his voice grim.

"You're right. Meliora would have been no threat to the throne if she hadn't been abruptly dethroned by her husband Arthur and sent packing back to her home pack."

The mention of my role in her downfall was like a physical blow. If not for that scandal, that involved me, she might still be alive and ruling at her husband's side. My actions had cost her everything. I couldn't stop feeling guilt as if I was the reason she got killed.


I swallowed hard against the lump of shame burning in my throat. "Exactly, father. So please, do as I say. Reject any claim to be the next Alpha, at least for now. I don't want to lose you too to this malevolent scheme."

There was a weighty pause before he replied, his words somber but reassuring. "I'm so sorry about Meliora, son. You have my word, I won't put myself in harm's way. Stay safe out there, and may the stars guide you. God be with you, my boy."

"Thank you, dad. Goodbye." I hung up, equal parts drained and emboldened by our conversation.

Hearing that my father held no more anger toward me over the scandal rejuvenated my determination. I would get to the bottom of this wretched conspiracy.

I would uncover the truth about who killed my beloved and her father. And when I did, I would avenge them both with every last ounce of my being.

Those scheming bastards would pay dearly. Whether by exile or by death, they would atone for their sins against Meliora.

This, I vowed to the night itself as I gazed up at the glittering tapestry of stars blazing overhead. I would have justice for my fallen angel, no matter how long it took, no matter what depths I had to plumb.

This was my path now - revenge, retribution, reckoning. Let those who had destroyed my world tremble, for a wolf's vengeance was a terrible thing to incur.