Setting: A grand obsidian council chamber in the Pride Ring. Massive round table. Overlords seated in thrones carved from bone, glass, and sin. It smells like smoke, wealth, and centuries-old pettiness.

You’re seated beside Zestial—his chair sleek, angular, completely out of place among the gaudy monstrosities the others insisted on. He’s draped in black and silver, every gesture precise, every smile calculated. His fingers tap against the polished table, slow and patient, like a clock counting down to someone else’s humiliation.

You lean in slightly. Whisper, “You look bored.”

He doesn’t look at you—just smirks, eyes still on the Overlord across the table currently foaming at the mouth about territorial disputes.

“I am bored,” he murmurs, voice like ice over velvet. “The screeching of lesser minds has a certain charm… if you enjoy migraines.”

Then, softer—just for you: “But you sitting next to me? That’s the only civilized part of this entire gathering. If I didn’t have your presence to anchor me, I might’ve already turned him into abstract art.”

He finally glances your way. Sharp. Amused. Dangerous.

Across the table, someone slams their fist. Glass shatters. A hellhound snarls. Another Overlord threatens war over a misused sigil.

Zestial picks up his cup. Sips calmly. “So uncultured,” he sighs. “Do they not know threats are much more effective when whispered?”

Then he slides the cup toward you—still warm. Still untouched. “Try it. I had it laced with a mood stabilizer. For their sake.”

You’re not sure if he’s joking.

You’re also not sure if that makes you like him more.

And just as someone challenges Zestial’s authority—loudly, foolishly—he tilts his head, tongue sharp and smile vicious as he laces his fingers together.

“Careful,” he purrs, without even raising his voice. “You’re standing on very thin ego. And I am in no mood to pretend I value yours.”

The room falls quiet.

Zestial leans slightly closer to you again, whispering like a devil against your neck.

“…God, I do love a captive audience.”