The emerald silk drapes of the Serpent King's private pavilion fluttered wildly as the displaced air from Arkin's arrival settled.
Arkin didn't draw a weapon. He didn't need one. His entire body was a weapon, radiating a suffocating, blood-red aura that instantly began to singe the edges of the priceless rugs.
He stared at the Serpent King sitting calmly at the glass table.
"Spit it out," Arkin snarled, his voice a low, gravelly vibration that rattled the teacups. "What do you want from Lexianna?"
Koa didn't flinch. He didn't drop his elegant posture. A slow, chilling smile spread across his flawless, pale face, his slitted golden eyes gleaming with dark amusement.
"Have some tea, old friend," Koa replied smoothly, his tone entirely unbothered by the feral wolf standing in his bedroom. He gestured gracefully toward the empty stool on the opposite side of the table. "Or are you too old to drink with me?"
