Rodney’s house, a grand traditional courtyard with a touch of local ethnic flair, stood at the heart of the base. Its three-story design exuded elegance and authority.

As the group entered the compound, the tight security was evident; soldiers stood guard at regular intervals.

In the living room, Yvette sat on the main couch, flanked by Jeremiah, Emmett, Samantha, and Charles. Eagle King sprawled casually at the other end.

Rodney poured a glass of juice, placing it before Yvette. “Kash took a team out. There’s been trouble, and he’s handling it. He should be back soon. He’d be thrilled you’re here.”

Rodney’s excitement revealed Kash’s importance; clearly, he was significant to Yvette.

Samantha, Charles, and Emmett instinctively looked to Eagle King, their unofficial guide.

Eagle King opened a beer, taking a sip before addressing their unspoken question. “Kash is insanely strong. Rodney trusts him most. They grew up together, but he’s ruthless, a killer who never hesitates. Don't cross him.”

The group understood; another formidable figure.

Eagle King took another gulp. Looking at Yvette, he said, “Kash fears only Yvette. If she commands, he obeys.”

Yvette rested her chin on her hand, calmly peeling an orange and offering a piece to Jeremiah.

Rodney watched, his mood souring. He thought bitterly, One day, I’ll make Yvette realize I’m the best. She’s blinded by Jeremiah. He muttered, “Damn it, Jeremiah!”

His quiet voice was audible to the sharp-eared group.

Emmett and Samantha pretended not to hear; they wouldn't get involved. They thought, Rodney’s just a kid. Jeremiah might handle us, but not a child.

Jeremiah calmly ate the orange, smiling slightly. “It’s very sweet,” he said in a deep voice.

Yvette glanced at Jeremiah and Emmett, rubbing her forehead. Samantha took a sip of water before asking, “Yvette, how did you control Kash?”

Rodney, feigning innocence, swung his legs. “Kash was an orphan my father found in the forest. Raised by werewolves, he behaved like one. My father used him to deal with disobedience.”

Emmett, Charles, and Samantha were astonished. A child raised by werewolves? they thought.

Rodney edged closer to Yvette. Jeremiah noticed, watching with amusement. Yvette smirked but remained silent.

Straightening, Rodney continued, “Kash grew up with me. He’s three years older, but after being found, I taught him proper etiquette, dressing, everything.”

He seemed proud. Eagle King rolled his eyes. Rodney had cared for Kash, but he certainly benefited from Kash's abilities.

Kash’s combat skills were extraordinary; even unarmed, his odds of winning a fight were high. Born with a wolf’s ferocity, his loyalty had significantly supported Rodney’s rule. He’d been Rodney's shield, bearing countless scars.

Eagle King finished his beer. “As for Yvette controlling Kash… ask her.” He remembered Yvette’s methods vividly.

Rodney looked to Yvette, unwilling to elaborate.

Yvette calmly took a sip of water, her cold eyes sweeping the room. “The first time, I broke his ribs. The second, I hung him for seven days and nights. The third, I sent him to the ICU.”

Eagle King winced, marveling at Yvette’s mellowed temper.

Her words struck like a hammer. Emmett, Charles, and Samantha felt adrenaline, yet knew Yvette never acted harshly without reason.

Rodney defended her. “It wasn’t her fault. His wild instincts are his nature. If she hadn’t subdued him, he would have killed her. Besides, she treated him all three times, leaving no scars.”

Jeremiah’s gaze softened slightly.

Yvette lowered her head. Those treatments had unlocked Kash’s potential, pushing his physique to its peak, making him a master and loyal to her—his alpha.

Samantha stared in admiration. “My admiration for Yvette grew. She doesn’t just make them obey; she beats them into loyalty.”

Jeremiah pondered what he’d heard.

Rhythmic footsteps echoed from the entrance. A shirtless man entered, wearing only low-slung black shorts. His bronzed skin gleamed, highlighting his physique. His sharp eyes radiated untamed energy.

Seeing Yvette, he quickened his pace. Seven feet away, he dropped to his knees, silently.