Ryder moved fast, stepping in between Nate and Claire before Nate could take another step toward her. His stance was firm, his eyes locked onto Nate's with a rare intensity.
"Nate," Ryder said, his voice steady but urgent. "I don't know what the hell happened here, but you've already killed someone. Now you want to kill her too?"
Nate's gaze didn't waver. He barely even blinked.
Ryder exhaled sharply, his expression hardening. "Every life matters, especially now that Zoro's threat is getting closer. The man you just killed—he was strong, Nate. He had an ability that could've helped us. And now he's gone."
Nate's fingers twitched, his entire body still rigid with unspent fury. Then, slowly, he lifted his gaze and met Ryder's eyes.
His voice was cold when he spoke.
"Claire tarnished my name." His words were sharp, like steel cutting through the air. "That is unforgivable."