I can see the way her eyes scan over me, a trait we seem to share in this moment. It is a natural thing, I think, to size one another up in such a way and I do not allow it to hinder my opinion of her. After all, I am more inclined to believe her sharp now that she has taken it upon herself to do such a thing. A fool might assume themselves safe or infallible; a fool might also think the same of me. I am always curious to watch their expressions when they observe me. Do they see a weakness? Some tangible weakspot that they might seek to dig into? If she does, she does not let me know about it. What am I to believe? That there is not one or that she is smart enough to keep the observation to herself, her face unflinching?

I cannot help but muse the possibility. I do like to imagine that others will prove to be interesting. Perhaps she won't let me down.

When she speaks, my eyes return to hers, lingering on their darkness as my own lips are pulled back into the smallest hint of an amused grin. "So," I respond smoothly, my head slowly falling into a subtle tilt, "if you're the shadow, who is the flame?" I can't pretend like this is not a game of sorts. After all, it is more fun to toy in such a way rather than to dive immediately into the blase formalities and small talk that others seem to desire. Names, origins, purpose... there is plenty of time for that, and such things seldom truly reveal the inner workings of another. No, it is much more fun to pick away at another's mind in a more subtle way. Why should I settle for boring solely because of my position as an alpha?

I rock back on my paws, falling into a seated position. I have no intention on letting this game end early. If she wanted a quick encounter then she should have been more... plain, I suppose. More direct, otherwise. For now, I am going to get comfortable and I will take my time worming in through her ears and into the brain between them. She came quietly and now, she dances around formalities. Who is she? There is more to her than that. "And what's left of the shadow when the flame dies out?" My voice hisses with curiosity, my brow sliding up my forehead as I hold her gaze firmly. Is it too much to ask for? To be amused just for once?