There was reason in what he said, and even if she wanted to, she could not ignore it.  He was right.  If she were to run back home and go after Antony, she would likely die in the attempt.  Even if she were at a proper weight and health, Ylva could best maybe six or seven Beta wolves on her own.  If she thought hard about it and counted in her mind, the wolves surrounding Antony were likely around the numbers Valko mentioned, if not a few more.  Even though she was willing to see reason, it did not put out the fire in her heart.  Perhaps she could be happy here, but she could not just let the past die.  Not yet, when justice had not been done.<br/><br/>"There are others back there, women, children, men, families.  Wolves that deserve better than what he will subject them to, they deserve protection...."  She let out a soft sigh as her chin settled against his chest, her eyes searching his.  "...but I know what you say is true.  I would die I were to attempt anything now, and I can't...give him that satisfaction."  Antony had let her live, but not because he was merciful or kind.  He saw her as a pawn in the game he played, a piece he could maneuver on the board for power and alliances.  The mistake he had made was due to his lack of knowledge.  Ylva may not have shared a connection with another Alpha, not like this one, but she still would have clearly shown what she was to any other he might have sent her too.  Her strength, determination and force of will was enough to make her an attractive mate.  He likely thought that would gain him favor, because he was a fool, but this situation was not going to work out in his favor.<br/><br/>Ylva watched Valko's earnest and kind eyes for a moment, before she shifted up slightly and again captured his lips with hers.  The kiss lacked ferocity that their previous lip-locks had shared, but it was no less heartfelt.  Ylva had thought perhaps now that their minds were no longer filled with lust and desire that he might give her up, offer to let her go her own way now that they were both sated for the time being.  His words, the ease of this conversation despite the difficult topic and the way his hands moved over her form made it clear he was not going to let go easily.  Ylva didn't want him to, deep down.  They had barely met and yet she communicated with him as if he were a close confidant or friend.<br/><br/>"The hunger will likely only get stronger..."  She said, her words suddenly quiet against his lips.  The thought sent shivers down her spine, a sensation that felt like both anticipation and a little bit of fear.  If she stayed, things would continue to build between them, mostly likely, until one of them could no longer stand the temptation and marked the other.  "It doesn't always happen this way, but sometimes, the pull is simply strong.  It was like that for my grandparents.  They were in rival packs, and ran into each other while hunting...Typically, packs with rivalries as bitter as theirs would have fought or chased each other off.  Instead, my grandparents both shifted into their human forms and claimed they were mates within hours.  Their parents did not love the idea, but it was what really created the Evergreen pack, their union, once their parents passed on."<br/><br/>Packs were like families, they shifted and changed as they lost and gained members.  "Not that I'm saying that is what will happen between us, I just think it may be best we're both...aware...of the possibilities."  Ylva's lips nipped at his once again, her body pressing flush against his.  The thoughts of revenge may not have left her mind, but they were no longer at the forefront.  "Perhaps we should sleep and we can give all of this more consideration in the morning?  Under the fresh light of a new day...'