Zatan watched the flood of people pouring into the area and took a slow, measured step back, his expression settling into cold satisfaction as he raised a hand and pointed directly at Ethan. "Kill him."
The newcomers hesitated at first, their eyes flickering with confusion as they tried to place Ethan's face, but that uncertainty lasted only a heartbeat. Recognition didn't matter. When Zatan gave an order, obedience followed. Back home, hesitation came with consequences none of them were willing to face.
"I'd like to see who dares."
Hayes stepped forward without a trace of hesitation, placing herself squarely between Ethan and the advancing group. Brock moved in beside her, then Vale, then Ginger, even Onyx, each one forming a protective wall. Riley lingered for just a second longer than the rest, her small frame tense, before she hurried forward too and planted herself in front of Ethan, trying to look braver than she felt.
