Equal Bets are for Fools

Ceres sat in silence for a moment. The smile on her lips faded slightly, replaced by a more serious expression. She clasped her hands on her lap, her gaze still locked on Fayla's. « Demand, you say… » Ceres murmured, her voice barely audible. « You have an interesting way of negotiating. »

Fayla raised an eyebrow. « Alliances built on demands hold little value. What I'm offering is much more than a simple partnership. »

The man, who had remained silent until now, shifted slightly in his chair, concern evident on his face. « Fayla… »

Fayla turned her head toward him, her eyes narrowing slightly. « Stay out of this, Jompey. You know me well enough to trust that I always know what I'm doing. »

Ceres followed the exchange with growing interest. « What makes you think L'Étoile Rouge needs you ? » she asked, her voice now tinged with curiosity.