Dark Moon Rising

Chapter Twenty-Four: Nefarious Plans

Argus's Point of View

If there was a time when I truly mastered self-restraint, it was now. Despite feeling scared, I maintained a composed expression, steady breath, and calm heart rate. I reassured myself that Lucius might sound sinister at times because, well, let's admit it, he can be.

"Dad, everything all right?" I inquired, my voice laced with worry.

I had mastered the role of the devoted son. Leaning in slightly, I kept firm eye contact to convey to Lucius that I was fully present and caring about what he was about to share. As expected, Lucius reacted just as I had anticipated. He relaxed, looking more comfortable, with a gentle gaze.

"I have something to tell you in confidence. I hope it won't alter our relationship or how you see me," Lucius started.

"You can share anything with me, I said, my voice exuding warmth and reassurance.

"Argus, I am incredibly proud of you and all your achievements. You have made me immensely proud to be your father. Your success has prompted me to reflect on my past and my decisions. There are certain choices that I deeply regret," Lucius expressed.

"Before Evelina, another woman was a part of my life. Layla informed me of her pregnancy, but my family disapproved of her. They pressured her to leave, and I was led to believe that there was no child and that she had agreed to a p*****t from my family to abandon me. I felt resentful and sought revenge. It seemed like the child Layla carried was not mine but belonged to a significant figure in the Hunter Foundation. I engineered the separation of the couple, and Layla passed away soon after," Lucius recounted.

I lifted my eyebrows, held my breath, and pondered whether he had harmed this woman just like he did Evelina in a fit of anger. It wouldn't shock me; it would only deepen my disdain for him.

"Layla, who was a werewolf without a wolf, had forsaken her heritage to be with me. She sought validation and loyalty by joining the Hunter Foundation, a decision I understood too late. She perished during the assault on the Crimson Pack," Lucius added.

"According to the records, Layla was supposed to go on that mission. However, further investigation revealed that she was actually assigned to scout the area around the Dark Moon pack. Due to childcare concerns, Layla took on a different role within the organization. She would bring her son along on these expeditions, using the guise of a young mother hiking with her toddler to gather information discreetly. Unfortunately, something went wrong, and neither she nor her son returned home," Lucius explained, his voice growing colder.

"What do you think happened to them?" I inquired, intrigued by his perspective on the situation.

"I believe they abducted him," Lucius replied with disdain.

"Who?" I questioned, still uncertain about whom he suspected.

"The Dark Moon pack. I think someone discovered him and raised him as their own. Or Layla may have betrayed me again, seeking refuge to start a new life there with our son. I do not know what became of Layla or the child. He would be around his late twenties now. I aim to locate him and bring him back home. I would appreciate your help in finding your brother," Lucius disclosed.

"How can I help?" I asked, genuinely curious as to what he wanted me to do.

"Form a task force with trusted operatives to infiltrate the Dark Moon pack. Recent reports suggest new members with distinct skill sets have joined the pack. I mentioned wanting to capture the new Luna, an elemental wolf. I would like her abilities to be studied, and if Jo cannot be persuaded to join our cause, she will be terminated," Lucius declared.

I asked if he had any specific team members in mind. Lucius nodded, and I waited anxiously. Depending on his selection, things could get complicated for me.

"I suggest you bring the operatives you have been working closely with, the ones you trust and have a good rapport with. I want both my sons back home. Choose wisely, Argus," Lucius said in a hushed tone.

I nodded, and then I inquired about the timeline for assembling and briefing the team.

"Within the next twenty-four hours. Get your notes ready for me and finalize your team. I will approve any necessary expenses. This needs to be a swift mission. Locate your brother, capture the Luna, and return," Lucius instructed.

My adoptive father tapped the bulky file and looked at me.

"Everything you must understand is contained in this document. Read it thoroughly. Ensure you have a clear idea of your target. Argus, stealth is key to achieving success in this mission. This pack has proven to be a formidable opponent. Enter with a well-thought-out strategy," Lucius stated firmly.

He stood to leave my office, pausing briefly before opening the door.

"Argus, I care for you, my son. Stay safe. I hope both my sons return home," Lucius expressed, before leaving swiftly.

As soon as the door shut, I sighed and slumped in my office chair. How could I choose my team? I couldn't pick individuals who were easily influenced and expendable. Lucius desired a discreet, quick mission.

I cautiously observed the large file before me, deciding it was wise to start thereafter printing out my updated notes for Lucius. After saving the original file to a USB hidden on my person, I deleted it. While going through the extensive folder, I came to appreciate the uniqueness of the Dark Moon pack. This realization fueled my determination to safeguard them and their community.

Could I identify individuals who might be persuaded to oppose the Collective? Among them were those not there by choice, only deployed for sensitive operations and promptly contained afterward. Would they trust me enough to cooperate? I had played the role of the dutiful son of Lucius Void for so long that most could not see me as anything but. As I navigated through the detailed contents of the Dark Moon pack file, a plan began to take shape in my mind.