Page 148 of Savage Throne
I dare you to take it out. We can fucking fight right here.
I continued forward and when I reached the center of the path, the orchestra’s sound devolved into even more chaos—one trumpet let out a broken wail, strings fumbled in confusion, and I could hear the musicians snapping at each other.
My father and she got to me and stopped.
Then, my father sneered. “This isyourMountain Mistress’s moment.Her debut.What do you think you’re doing?”
I met his glare with one of my own, stepping closer until the space between us vanished. “If that’s true, if this ismyMountain Mistress, then why areyounext to her?” My voice dropped lower, cutting through the noise like a blade.
“She’smyMountain Mistress. Right? Not yours. You had your moment with Mom. Let mine go.”
Moni tried to move from him.
My father wouldn’t budge and that other hand flexed on the hilt of his sword. He didn’t speak at first, but I could see the rage bubbling just beneath the surface—his chest rose and fell heavier.
His mouth twitched at the corners.
For a second, I thought he’d draw the blade right there, slice through whatever fragile truce existed between us in front of the entire sanctum.
I leaned in closer. “You want to battle here? I’m fine with it, but you willnotwalk next to her anymore.”
Moni parted her lips. “Let me go, Leo.”
“Everything must be the way I’ve designed it. I’ve spent too much time. Go sit down, Lei.” He shifted, pulling Moni slightly behind him. “This ishertime.”
His movement was subtle but unmistakable—he was trying to claim her in front of me.
Like a prize.
His prize.
Instantly, I saw red.
Moni frowned and moved, trying to step away.
His grip tightened.
I didn’t think.
I just moved.
My hand shot out, slamming his hand away from her arm with enough force to send a sound echoing through the Sanctum.
The sudden movement sent a collective gasp rippling through the guests.
Shocked, my father stumbled back.
Cameras flashed.
Somewhere in the orchestra pit, a violin screeched to a halt.
Waiters froze mid-step, some dropping trays that crashed to the ground.
Leo’s hand flew back toward the hilt of his sword.
I snarled. “You will never get to touch her again.”
Moni hurried over to me.
