[That draws him up short- the slightest hesitation in his step, focus narrowing further than it already was. Prince was never relaxed, but the words make him even more tense. There are many things he would accept from new Hosts. Many things he could understand, from personal experience and from the droves of students he has had before. Reluctance was typical. Anger was understandable.

This, though? He would not entertain.]

I do not care what you do with yourself, but as much as you would deny what you are you will not deny them. They did not ask to be part of yours, and I will not allow you to endanger them.

[There was no quicker way to earn his ire than to risk those you fought beside. Parker would not and could not understand it yet, what it was to be in a brood. Even if you were as Prince, and had drawn your line in the sand, they were yours. And, like all allies, like all comrades, their lives were yours to protect. It went beyond a tie you did not ask for.]