Inside the Wolf, Ram, and Hart Building
Spotty’s Perspective
Spotty folded her arms, her crystalline blue eyes glinting with a mixture of amusement and mild exasperation as she turned to Ila. Her lips quirked into a smirk, but her voice carried a casual, almost playful lilt.
“Nah,” she said, her tone deliberately loud enough for Marcus to hear. “He’s been pretty reasonable and cooperative so far. Unlike his boss.” Her gaze flicked momentarily to the pile of dust that was once Angelus before returning to Marcus. “It’d be pretty uncool of me to harm him, even if I was in a bad mood.”
She sensed Marcus tense slightly, though he was trying his best to appear composed. He’s probably weighing whether to breathe a sigh of relief or brace for another round of mind games. Can’t blame him; I’d be nervous too.
Spotty turned her attention fully to Ila, her smirk deepening. She already knew what was coming—the red-haired, amber-eyed menace had that mischievous glint in her eyes again.
Ila’s Perspective
Ila couldn’t resist. She leaned slightly closer to Spotty, her amber eyes sparkling with mock sincerity. “So, let me get this straight,” she said with a grin. “Most powerful, bravest, and craziest all packed in one, oh and smartest and most beautiful… and now apparently most just too?”
Her tone was teasing, but there was genuine admiration behind her words. She’s something else, isn’t she? No wonder people follow her with such loyalty—and fear.
She glanced at Marcus, gauging his reaction. The man—construct, whatever he was—seemed to be holding up well under the pressure. Barely. He’s lucky she’s in a good mood, though I’m sure he knows that.
Still smiling, she added, “You’re really collecting titles at this point, Spotty.”
Marcus Hamilton’s Perspective
Marcus stood stiffly, forcing himself to maintain composure as he listened to their exchange. They’re doing this on purpose, he thought grimly. This is a power play—a reminder that they can toy with me anytime they want.
When Spotty declared she wouldn’t harm him, a small part of him relaxed, but he knew better than to let his guard down completely. Reasonable and cooperative, huh? She’s not wrong, but the way she says it… it’s like she’s daring me to step out of line.
His gaze flicked briefly to Ila as she added her teasing commentary. He didn’t let his expression falter, but inside, he was frustrated. Great. Not only am I dealing with the most dangerous person in the multiverse, but her sidekick is enjoying this way too much.
Still, he had to admit: she was right about Spotty. Powerful, brave, crazy, smart, beautiful… just? Yeah, she’s all of that. And she knows it.
The Exchange
Spotty chuckled at Ila’s comment, shaking her head slightly. “Most just, huh?” she said, her voice laced with humor. “I’ll take it. But don’t push your luck, red-haired, amber-eyed menace.”
Ila grinned, clearly delighted with herself. “Wouldn’t dream of it.”
Marcus cleared his throat slightly, feeling the need to reassert himself even in this strange dynamic. “If I may,” he said carefully, his tone measured, “I’ll ensure the source books are delivered immediately. We don’t need any… further demonstrations of your capabilities.”
Spotty gave him a pointed look, her smirk softening into something almost benevolent. “Good,” she said simply. “Keep being reasonable, Marcus. It suits you.”
Ila’s grin widened, and she whispered just loud enough for Spotty to hear, “Most benevolent now too. Seriously, you’re running out of adjectives.”
Spotty laughed softly, turning her attention back to Marcus. “See what I have to deal with?” she said, gesturing to Ila.
Marcus didn’t respond, but his thoughts were clear: I’ll play along for now. The sooner I get them what they want, the sooner I can get them out of here.