The three brothers on hearing the footsteps approaching stood guard, arming themselves with their various weapons.
Eight warriors appeared from the woods their boots crunching over the forest floor.
Each carried a weapon, long blades glinting faintly under the moonlight, forming a tight circle around the triplets.
The triplets needed no introduction to know that they were sent by Alpha Silas. Their eyes were cold and certain, filled with duty and obedience.
"Release the princess. This instant," one of them barked, stepping forward. The tip of his spear pointed directly at Kael. His voice was sharp and left no room for argument.
Kael's lips curved into a slow, mocking smile. "Come and get her," he said, his voice low but deliberate. His hand brushed against Selena's arm, steadying her, protective.
Not one of the warriors moved. The circle tightened slightly, but no one stepped closer. Another voice broke the tense quiet, a mixture of anger and disbelief.
