Recognition sparked in Ren's eyes.
He knew who Jin was. Had probably known the moment Jin's mana appeared in his detection range.
Probably knew why they were here.
Maybe even knew how this would end.
But Jin didn't give him a chance to speak first. Didn't let Patinder 'try to talk his way out' or appeal to reason or do whatever verbal manipulation he might attempt.
First was his turn.
"Ren Patinder," Jin's voice resonated through the tunnel. But it sounded strange to his own ears. Too loud… Too intense, as if someone else was speaking through his throat. "Finally I have you where I wanted you."
But that wouldn't ruin the moment… He paused, savoring the moment.
Letting it stretch and letting the tension build.
Letting Patinder understand that this was different from every other conflict, every other rivalry, every other moment of danger he'd somehow survived.
This was personal.
"Do you remember your remote house? Almost four years ago? A patrol that found your family?"
