The sharp, resounding crack of flesh against flesh echoed violently across the shattered crystal pavilion.
Lexianna didn't hesitate. The disrespect of the accusation entirely bypassed her empathy for his weakened state. Her pale hand connected solidly with Arkin's jaw, the force of the slap snapping his head sharply to the side.
"How dare you," Lexianna hissed, her voice vibrating with rage that made the ambient temperature drop faster than Koa's magic ever could.
Arkin remained perfectly still, his head turned, the red mark of her hand instantly blooming against his pale cheek. He didn't raise a hand to defend himself. He just slowly turned his gaze back to her, his ruby eyes wide with shock.
The feral warlord, who had just been ready to tear the Serpent King limb from limb, was completely paralyzed by the sudden, physical reprimand from his tiny, pregnant mate.
