Ryder pov

The minutes stretch. I watch Jolie standing tall, light making her impossible to miss. Drawing every eye, announcing her presence like a challenge.

The Council vehicles appear at our perimeter. They stop just outside weapons range, doors opening to release enforcers in tactical gear.

A voice booms through a megaphone. "Jolie Kane, also known as the Moonfire Luna. You're harboring escaped Council prisoners. Release them immediately or face consequences."

"No." Jolie's voice carries ...