“Patrol leaders.” Ezra continued. “No one changes assigned positions without direct order from you, Declan, or me. I don’t care who they used to answer to.”
Both of them nodded.
“Double confirmation on all shift changes.” He said. “No verbal relays unless they come through a runner you trust.”
He moved to the map table while he spoke, and the bond pulsed tighter with every order, building structure faster than the fracture could spread.
One of the patrol leaders hesitated. “What about the older warriors who are refusing to kneel until the elders issue formal recognition?”
The room went still for half a beat. Ezra looked up slowly. “They don’t have to kneel tonight.” He said. “They do have to obey.”
The line landed hard. The patrol leader straightened. “Yes, Alpha.”
Ezra continued wi
