Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 17

Xena's POV

"Alpha Hank." Alpha Benedict said as he walked into the room.

I tried to stand up, but he placed his hand on my shoulder, gesturing for me to stay seated. "Don't get up. How are you feeling?"

"She's fine," Martha suddenly interjected, answering for me. Everyone looked at her in

confusion, not understanding why she'd speak on my behalf. I chose to ignore

her.

The three girls followed in behind Ryder, William, and Ama. Ama walked directly to

my

side.

"Are you okay?" she asked softly, crouching beside me.

"Much better. Can you help me braid my hair?" I smiled, stroking her face.

"Of course." Ama stood up and began working on my hair.

I looked at the three girls-broken nose, missing teeth, black eyes. They looked far

worse

than I did, and I felt a small sense of satisfaction at the sight.

"Seems like even three against one wasn't enough advantage for you," my father mocked

them.

"First, I want to apologize for their behavior. They will accept whatever punishment you deem appropriate," Alpha Benedict said.

daughter has already challenged that one to

her breath. Everyone in the room could hear it,

check on the garden?" My father sensed the tension rising in the room and walked

all realize she's just trash, the sooner we can be rid of her!" Martha shouted as my

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garden needs

talk that I didn't even

to the sting-both Martha's hatred and my father's enabling

me with sympathy. I could almost read their thoughts: "No wonder you hit her." This pity felt

we set it for next Saturday?" Alpha

appeared frightened but still had

the matter of this young lady who will be mating with our future Beta." Alpha Benedict

Daughter of our finest warrior. She will be missed," my father

we have the young people leave and discuss matters privately?" Alpha Benedict

"Certainly."

escorted the girls to the cells to await punishment; I turned to

are your plans today?"

I guess. Maybe moving my

at the shop today? I

how much

She looked at Ryder for

move your

I'll go with her

face lit up. "That's

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Chapter 17

one word for it, or did your father send you to

I'd guessed correctly. "That's what I thought. I

up and slowly walked out the door, heading toward

"Blade!" Ama called out.

with a laugh, letting her know I wasn't upset with her. I had no ill feelings toward Ama; she was

princess." Ryder