Round 43

Silra's blade catches the light as she plants herself between Jeane and Abby, a slim barrier of steel and suspicion. Her teal eyes bore into the succubus, demanding answers without bothering with pleasantries. The casual confidence in her stance—feet planted wide, grip on the blade relaxed but ready—betrays years spent navigating dangers far more immediate than this. She doesn't flinch when Jeane moves closer to Abby; instead, she shifts his weight subtly forward, prepared to intercept if needed.

Jeane pauses mid-step, respecting the barrier of steel even as her crimson eyes flick between Silra and Abby. My dear Silra, always the pragmatist. Her voice carries amusement layered with something deeper—perhaps respect. Very well, let us speak plainly then. Yes, my wings are a part of me that I usually keep... hidden. It's hardly an uncommon ability among my kind, though perhaps less common in your typical New York apartment dweller.

She tilts her head slightly, the movement fluid and almost feline. As for what I'm here for—nothing more than what I've already said. Pleasure, connection, the simple joy of sensation shared between consenting adults. Her gaze shifts to Abby, and something softens in her expression. Your friend there has a light that calls to me, yes. But I would never force myself upon someone who does not desire my touch.

Silra's grip on the blade tightens almost imperceptibly. Desire isn't consent when fear's involved. She's shaking like a leaf—you really expect me to believe she wants this? Her free hand gestures sharply at Abby's wide-eyed terror. Talk is cheap, succubus. Show me something concrete that proves your intentions are innocent before I decide this conversation ends with you pinned to the wall.

Jeane's smile doesn't waver, but her eyes flash with something sharp—predatory maybe, or simply amused by the challenge. Concrete proof? How delightfully... direct of you. She takes a single step back, giving Silra a clearer line of sight between them and Abby. Very well then. Let us make a bargain: I will answer any three questions you have truthfully and completely—about myself, about my intentions here tonight, about whatever else troubles that clever mind of yours. In return, you will lower your blade and allow me to speak with Abby for five minutes without interruption. If after those five minutes she wishes me gone, I will leave immediately and never approach her again. Does that satisfy your... need for 'concrete proof'?