Chase scoffed and stepped forward, the lazy amusement on his face sharpening into something hungrier.
"Commander," he said, rolling one shoulder as he moved into the open court, "I hope you don't mind if I go first."
Adriana studied him for a brief moment, then gave a single curt nod.
"Go ahead, Chase."
The look in his eyes changed at once. It was no longer playful. There was eagerness in it now, the kind that belonged to someone who genuinely enjoyed testing what other people were made of.
"Ever since I met you, Jagger Ashton," Chase said, flexing his fingers once, "I've wanted to have a little chat."
Inside Jagger's head, Ophilia's voice slid in sharp and cold.
'Be careful. He is more than double our level, and I doubt that is the only difference between you.'
Zumthor answered with a savage growl.
'Let me out. I will peel the flesh from his bones and wear it like a coat.'
"Quiet," Jagger muttered under his breath.
Chase's smile widened.
