Silence had never felt so loud before. The jungle itself seemed to still at Nova's words. The Apatka froze mid-motion, reptilian eyes glinting in the sunlight, their gazes sharpening on the 'shrimp' who had just declined their leader's help.
Nearby, a few of the muscleheads shifted their weight from foot to foot, rolling their shoulders and cracking their necks like they were warming up for a fight. It was certainly intimidating. Did they not see the size of her? There would be no fight— just a swift squash!
Strangely, Yoa didn't tense or react to Nova's comment. He sat at ease, long legs spread wide, one hand resting comfortably on her thigh, the other lifting the bowl to his lips as he drank the stew in heavy gulps, his Adam's apple bobbing with each swallow. Nova couldn't comprehend it. He was so comfortable in his skin, so sure of his strength and skills.
