"Maybe I do."
She waited, clearly expecting him to elaborate. He didn't.
Instead, he let his fingers tap the table rhythmically, his system interface flickering in his vision—scanning her expressions, pulse, micro-reactions.
[SYSTEM OBSERVATION:]
Emotional State: Curious, mildly cautious, slightly amused
Surface Thoughts: 'He's dangerous… but not hostile. Unpredictable. Interesting.'
Mana Signature: Suppressed — clearly experienced in concealment
The mage exhaled, tilting her head.
"You like playing games, Demonheart… but Arenfall isn't a place for people who play blind."
Sion's eyes gleamed faintly, his voice smooth.
"Who said I'm blind?"
A tense moment… then, to his quiet satisfaction, she chuckled lightly.
"Alright," she relented. "We'll play it your way… for now."
She stood gracefully, adjusting her cloak.
"Name's Elara. I'll be seeing you again… probably sooner than you think."
Without waiting for permission, she turned and slipped out of the inn, disappearing into the night.
[SYSTEM NOTIFICATION]
New Contact: Elara — Mage, Unknown Allegiances. Interaction Successful. Curiosity Level: Moderate. Suspicion: Neutral.
Nyx appeared beside him a moment later, arms crossed, grinning.
"Smooth, Master… real smooth."
Sion's smirk returned.
"Patience, Nyx. The smart ones always circle back."
---
Next steps:
1. Rest for the night, let the system process city data.