Don't Poke the Luna (Xena and Ryder)

Chapter 283

My heart shattered into pieces. The fury that had been simmeting beneath the surface all day blazed hotter at her innocent question. She was so forting, to young to have witnessed the violence and abuse that had clearly been part of her daily life. But this was the harsh reality of our world, where even children. couldn't escape the brutality and pain.

1 knelt down to her level, fighting back tears. 'No more, sweetheart. Mommy will never bleed again."

"Cars will be here in twenty minutes, Ryder announced as he rejoined us.

'I'm going with them, I told him through our mind link. 'I need to tell Penelope the truth about everything."

Ryder hesitated, his eyes searching my face with concern. "Are you sure you're okay?"

'I'm fine. I'll take care of the women and children while you handle the men."

The men kneeling on the ground wore expressions of obvious displeasure and contempt. Their eyes held fear, yes, but underneath that was pure hatred. Several of the warriors glared at Ryder and me with undisguised loathing.

"There will be warriors to assist Logan and me, Ryder said, ignoring their hostile stares. "I just contacted Delphine - he'll be helping you."

One of the stronger warriors suddenly sprang to his feet, clearly preparing to attack us. At the same moment, several vans pulled into the driveway.

'I suggest you sit back down before I help you," Ryder said coldly, his voice carrying that dangerous calm that meant he was barely restraining his anger.

More warriors poured out of the vehicles, some still wearing battle gear while others had already changed. "All women and children, please get in the cars, I called out to the crowd.

heart lifted slightly knowing he would be there to help coordinate

one of the

rigid. Rage exploded through me like wildfire.

let go of my arm and walked slowly toward the warrior, my eyes locked on his. "Want to say

bitch!" He spat on the

arrogant fool.

confused, glancing uncertainly at Ryder. My

his ropes, now!"

knife to slice through the bindings.

shoulders.

name?"

don't need to know," he replied,

I quickly ducked under his swing, and at the same time, my right claws sho plunged deep into his knee. I yanked them

The kneeling warriors stared at me in terror, and I was

wound goes much deeper," I said coldly, my gaze sweeping over every single warrior still on their knees. "Times are changing. You can either adjust your attitude, or you can join your dead Alpha in eternal rest. You can let my mate know your decision - he'll be

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Chapter 283

you achieve either outcome. Or

Xena, we

voice made me smile. 'Delphine."