Ivan knows better than to think he can intimidate Hal. If it comes to an actual fight, his only prayer is that Hal's been truthful about being clean for 55 years. (Even then, he might be out of his league.)

Hal's manners, on the other hand, may work to Ivan's advantage.

"Given your history with fascinating young ladies, you'll forgive my reticence."

Ilde can likely feel tension from him down their bond, unusual. He'd warned her about Mitchell, but he'd been largely unconcerned. Ivan rests a hand on her shoulder, part proprietary, part protective. He glances down at her so she can easily see.

"Hal and I knew one another very long ago, back home."