48. Blue Scales

Jayden took a step forward, attempting to defuse the tension. “Okay, look, we’re here for just one small thing. Really tiny, barely worth mentioning. We just need... two of your scales.” He offered a sheepish smile. “I hope that’s not offensive?” Naag’s face darkened, and his smile vanished. “Offensive?” he echoed, his tone dangerous. He took a step toward them, his movements slow and deliberate. “How would you feel if I asked to rip off pieces of your skin and then expected you to act normal about it?” His arms folded across his chest, his scaled shoulders glinting. Jayden hesitated, swallowing hard. “Fair point.” Something felt off. The man standing before them didn’t quite match the warnings they had received from Jinx. He wasn’t particularly tall, nor did he radiate the kind of fearsome presence they had anticipated. Swan frowned, her instincts urging caution, but before she could voice her thoughts, Naag’s expression shifted into a mischievous smirk. “But! But… *but!*” he exclaime