Ravyn could only get Battal's secrets by pretending to be loyal, a dangerous game that required a steady hand and an unreadable face. But this time, Battal played it smart, his voice carrying the careful measure of a man who had learned to guard his secrets well.
"Don't worry, Alpha Ravyn. Everything is already in motion. I shall inform you when I need your help."
Ravyn was losing his patience, the frustration coiling in his chest like a snake that refused to settle, but he remained calm, his voice carefully neutral. Battal was planning something, and this time, he refused to share. The silence on the other end of the line only made the tension thicker.
"Perhaps I might add some ideas if you tell me," Ravyn tried to push, his tone light, almost casual, without making it obvious that every word was a probe.
