Aestrea didn't hesitate long after seeing this move.
15. Nxd5
He captured the knight.
The white knight on d4 took on d5.
15… exd5
The Creator Woman recaptured with the e-pawn, opening the e-file further and giving herself a solid central pawn structure.
She raised an eyebrow at him.
"Trading knights already? I thought you wanted to keep pieces on the board to attack me. Or are you simplifying because you're afraid of my counterplay?"
Aestrea's expression remained cold as he replied.
"I'm simplifying because your position has weaknesses. That isolated d5 pawn might become a target later. And I like open positions when I have the initiative."
The Creator Woman's red eye glowed brighter with excitement.
"Bold words. Let's see if you can back them up."
She moved her bishop.
16. Be3
Developing the bishop to a strong square, eyeing the d4 and c5 squares while supporting the center.
Aestrea responded by activating his rook.
16… Rfe8
