( Mishka takes the shove, but his eyes narrow sharp.

Adelis doesn't understand, and he wouldn't. He doesn't need to. But there is one matter on which he agrees, and it's that this isn't like him. None of this is - not the way he teases and plays, and not the way he feels a strange twisting when he sees Adelis, at times.

Would that he could take Adelis's wrists and snap them. )

... If you wish to wag your tongue like a child in tantrum, I will see that you have no tongue at all.

( He grabs Adelis by the jaw and yanks his face up, holding him there with such strength it feels nearly like it might bruise. )

I may have been an ally to you, but I must have misled you if you think we're close enough that you can address me with such disrespect. My leniency has only served to spoil you.

( With that, he drops his grip. )

Put up your torches all you like. I believe this conversation is over.