It's a profound shift in demeanour, and Zerxus holds his gaze just long enough to show that he's noticed, and to avoid following his directive immediately. He's got standards.

Then he starts penning the letter to Eaedalus. This one takes longer, between the strategic matters and the personal ones. The Okiros are family, and that means they're the primary people he trusts Elias with when he's away like this.

You aren't wrong. Sharp and wary, but with an edge of earnest pride. (Or as earnest as the Father of Lies ever gets, at least.) So much pride, too - I almost want him for myself.

Teasing, more than warning; Asmodeus can take whatever he wants, they both know that, but he's generally happy to let Bruce have his own toys.