He hesitated a moment longer, teeth grinding, before the words ripped from him:

"I'll retire him myself."

The words came rough, betraying the fear he tried to mask as command.

Riven stopped.

He looked at Baron, eyes narrowing, but Baron didn't back down. For a moment, the air between them was thick, silent, dangerous.

Then, with a slow exhale, Riven handed her over and gave a small, curt bow.

Baron slid his arms beneath Elyan with practiced care, drawing him close against his chest. ...