This is such a cool move

Felix’s smile widened as Maika sat down, radiating the kind of unruffled charm that could only be described as calculated. He took another sip of his drink, letting the silence stretch just a hair past comfortable before speaking.

Ah, Maika! he said, his voice laced with warmth that felt entirely at odds with her frosty demeanor. Dripping with the vigor of someone caught in nature’s embrace, I see. A bold choice. Very avant-garde.

His eyes sparkled with mischief as he gestured vaguely toward her sodden appearance. He set his glass down with a faint clink and leaned forward slightly, lowering his voice to something just above a conspiratorial whisper.

Now, I understand you’re a busy woman, places to be, storms to weather—but consider this. Where else would you rather be, right now, than here, with me, in the Rusty Tankard?

He leaned back again, giving her a little flourish with one hand as though he’d just presented the most profound question in existence.

Of course, I wouldn’t dream of keeping you longer than strictly necessary. I’m nothing if not efficient. Shall we get to it?

Felix’s tone suggested he very much doubted her desire to rush things and, if anything, was thoroughly enjoying the power dynamic at play. He retrieved a folded piece of parchment from his coat, letting it rest on the table between them.

Now then, he continued, tapping a finger lightly on the paper. It’s all here. What you need to know, who you need to avoid, and, crucially, who owes me a favor if things go pear-shaped. I’d love to claim this is all altruistic, but let’s face it—heroes are overrated. No profit in being noble, am I right?

He offered her a grin that was equal parts charming and insufferable.

@Maika Arainai