"Tell me where they are." Adyr ignored his attempt at small talk and went straight to it.
"You should have asked who I am or who you are first. I have the answers to most of your questions, you know that, right?" The Mad Scientist exhaled in disappointment.
"I'll learn those in time. First, release your hostages so we can talk on equal terms." Adyr laid it out, careful not to give him control.
The Mad Scientist's smile thinned. "So you really care about them. Or you're very good at deceiving, good enough to fool even yourself."
In the next instant, Marielle and Niva were in front of him on the open rooftop, as if the space had folded them into being. They lay on the concrete, side by side, eyes closed and motionless like carved figures.
Adyr didn't move. Only his gaze slid over them with the same calm attention he gave everything, taking in the rise and fall of their chests, the loose hang of their fingers, and the steady, natural expressions.
