Riley’s laughter interrupted Lexx’s thoughts and then he was aware that it wasn’t the same. Within the relay, Riley tackled Lexx, looking amused at himself. The connection immediately relieved Lexx’s fear, just as it was intended to do. He didn’t care that he was being bullied in his own mind, because Riley did not mean any actual harm. The last thing Lexx ever wanted to do, was to have to fight with Riley.
“Priceless.” Riley grinned. “The look on your face, Lexx.”
“You are frightening Chel!” Lexx was quick to point out, wanting Riley to stop it with the fake threat.
“She’s frightened for you,… and since when are you afraid of me? I felt that.” Riley eased his grip as he continued speaking through the relay. He had seen the audio ring. There was no way he would risk being heard. “Lexx, I have to fight you, but you will win. Just consider it a friendly spar between friends. Then my sister can’t say I didn’t fight.” Riley paused and suddenly shifted to a more serious voice, “You should be careful. Trasik is watching you and looking for ways to force a restart. Lucky for you,… she’s slow.”
