The backup plan

Lance's eyebrows furrowed initially, absorbing the whispered message, but his expression soon gave way to a sly smile. He returned his focus to Jasper.

Lance's eyebrows creased and then relaxed. His lips curled into a sly smile as he returned his focus to Jasper. "I never underestimate my enemies," he said with a firm tone. "I always have a backup plan. I have the ace in the hole, and I'm going to use it to win this game no matter how you try to play it."

Lance, seemingly unruffled, gestured towards the entrance with casual disregard. "Have a look at who is here."