"What is the meaning of this?" he demanded. "You have no right—"
The King raised a hand.
"I have every right," he said, his voice carrying across the clearing. "You kidnapped a member of the Adama royal family. You threatened the Crown Princess. You have broken the laws of the Council and the traditions of our kind."
The Alpha's face went white.
"I did no such thing—"
"Save your lies." The King's voice was ice. "I have footage. Witnesses. Evidence. And I will not hesitate to use them."
He stepped forward, and the Alpha stepped back.
"Where is she?" the King demanded. "Where is Rana?"
The Alpha stood his ground.
His face was pale, his jaw tight, but his eyes still blazed with defiance. He lifted his chin, refusing to bow.
"You have no authority here," he said, his voice carrying a
