[past] Where the wild and weird roam

Bastien froze for a moment, the smirk fading from his lips as Maika’s words hit him like a splash of cold water. Then, slowly, his expression shifted into something darker, more dangerous, though the smile that returned didn’t quite reach his eyes.

Well, well, aren’t you full of fire? he said, his tone deceptively calm but laced with venom. He tilted his head, studying her like a predator deciding whether its prey was worth the effort. It’s almost charming. Almost.

He straightened, brushing an imaginary speck of dust off his coat, as if dismissing her entirely. You’re right, though. I *do* like the sound of my own voice. But even more than that, I like it when people know their place. It’s just so much easier that way, don’t you think?