[past] Where the wild and weird roam

Bastien’s expression twisted into something between amusement and irritation, his smirk twitching as if her indifference had landed somewhere between a mild inconvenience and a direct insult. Few dared to brush him off, especially with such a calm disregard. And Maika's self-assured defiance… well, it was refreshing. But also infuriating.

Friendship, he repeated, the word sliding off his tongue with barely concealed contempt. An idealistic notion, one that rarely stands in the way of a well-timed blade or a bag of coin. People say they act out of loyalty, but in the end, it’s only power that keeps them truly loyal.

He leaned forward again, watching for a reaction as his fingers drummed lazily on the bar, each tap ringing softly against the worn wood. I don’t believe you. Not one bit, he continued, his gaze narrowing. You may not care for the games I play, but I’d wager that you care for something... and when a person cares, they can be made to bend. Eventually. His smile sharpened, his eyes narrowing with dangerous interest.

He straightened, pushing back from the bar with the casual arrogance of someone who knew he was feared and enjoyed every moment of it. But don’t worry, Maika, he said, her name dripping with false familiarity. It would be far too boring to push you now. No, I think I’ll wait. Time has a way of unraveling loyalty better than anything else… and when it does, I’ll still be here.

@Maika Arainai