The flickering streetlamp cast wavering shadows across the alley as Ginsei's threat hung in the air like poison.
Cyrus stepped forward, crimson energy crackling around his hands, murder gleaming in his red-gold eyes.
"You've said enough, serpent."
Kane's hand shot out, gripping Cyrus's wrist before lethal force could be unleashed.
"Don't."
The touch sent a jolt through their bond—Kane's desperation mixing with Cyrus's rage.
Cyrus's jaw clenched, but he held back, trusting Kane's judgment even as every dragon instinct screamed for violence.
Kane stepped forward, letting his investigative instincts take control as he studied Ginsei with newfound clarity.
"You know what, Ginsei? You're bluffing."
Ginsei's serpent smile wavered.
"If you had actual evidence, you'd have already gone to Qi." Kane's voice carried the cool authority of an experienced agent. "You wouldn't be cornering me in an alley, making threats."
The white serpent's scales rippled with uncertainty.
