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.

Logan approaching from the distance, and my heart lifted slightly knowing he

heard one of the bound warriors

body went rigid. Rage exploded through me like wildfire.

signaled for Ryder to let go of my arm and walked slowly toward the warrior, my eyes locked on his. "Want to say that louder?" I

said... stupid bitch!" He spat on the ground in

an arrogant fool. Cut his ropes," I ordered the warrior standing behind

at Ryder. My patience had reached

ropes, now!" I

weapon and used his knife to slice through the bindings. The bound warrior rubbed his wrists and stood up,

shoulders.

name?" I

don't need to know," he replied, then launched himself at

ducked under his swing, and at the same time, my right claws sho plunged

kneeling warriors stared at me in terror, and I was certain they now believed

sure that 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

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Chapter 283

help you achieve either outcome. Or you can ask

Xena, we

voice made me smile. 'Delphine." I turned