Kraven's voice dropped lower and colder. "You will not touch her. Not without my authorization."
The man hesitated, sweat forming along his brow. "But… Alpha, the Council has given us orders…"
"I said," Kraven's growl tore through the silence, "stand down."
The enforcer flinched, instinctively bowing his head. "Y–yes, Alpha."
Kraven didn't wait. He turned sharply, guiding Athena down the stairs, one arm locked around her trembling frame.
But behind them, the man's voice broke through the tension… cautious, almost fearful. He knew, he couldn't convince him but atleast he should know the consequences.
"Alpha Thorne… the Council will not be pleased with this interference."
Kraven didn't look back. His reply was quiet, but it carried enough weight to make the man's knees weaken.
"Then they can take it up with me. You will not touch her. Not without my authorization."
The enforcer froze, sweat glinting at his temple. "But… Alpha, the Council…"
