Power is never given without a price.
The meeting location was neutral ground—an abandoned property between territories, an old structure that had seen better decades. Isolated. Private. Perfect for honest conversation or perfect ambush.
I arrived alone, as agreed. Caleb had advised me carefully during preparation.
"Don't antagonize," he'd said. "But don't submit either. Katheris respects strength but values propriety. Balance assertiveness with diplomatic phrasing."
"And if she's setting a trap?"
"Then backup is positioned. Finn's team is watching from a distance. Any sign of danger, they intervene. You won't die alone."
"Comforting."
Through the bond, Darius maintained constant presence despite the distance. His consciousness was monitoring, his wolf tense with frustration at his inability to protect me directly. His injury kept him in the medical tent while his mate walked into potential danger.
I trust you, he sent. Hate this. But I trust you. Trust us.
