Ava’s claws elongated as she prepared to strike, her fury directly aimed at Althea. But before she could lunge, a commanding voice thundered through the chamber.

“Stop!”

The force of it stopped everyone cold. Ava froze mid-step, her eyes widening as Gavriel strode into the chamber. His gaze locked on her, dark and dangerous.

“Do not touch her!” Gavriel warned, his tone low but carrying the weight of authority no one dared challenge.

Ava lowered her hand reluctantly, trembling ...