So, instead, he secured a line of threat of his own, advancing his queenside bishop one square.
![Image](https://sotfmini.com/imagestash/Archive/V7/58811_chess_1.png)
Parker didn't seem to appreciate that. A flash of something like frustration crossed his face, and his next move was one that pressed the issue.
![Image](https://sotfmini.com/imagestash/Archive/V7/58811_chess_2.png)
He wanted this point of conflict, here and now, and Alton wondered two things: why, and how much? And with those questions in mind, his next move didn't take as long as the one before. He suspected that this was about to get messier, but his other option, carrying through with the castling, would leave him to lose multiple pieces for free. With this, at least, he was proposing an offer and feeling out intentions.
He moved his queen forward one space, further covering the contested square.
![Image](https://sotfmini.com/imagestash/Archive/V7/58811_chess_3.png)
He didn't speak a word, though not from irritation or even necessarily concentration, though he was concentrating closely, leaning forward, left corner of his quirked up as he watched his opponent work. No, it just felt like a proper moment for silence.