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[malicieux]

Comments

[abrightboy]

I know that. I wouldn't be inviting you to speak with him if you had.

[malicieux]

I thought you had come to the conclusion that Neal was capable of making his own decisions about who to speak to as he pleased.

{ It's fine. Lestat won't let it go fully but there are more important things at hand. }

What happened to him?

[abrightboy]

He's free to speak to whoever he likes, but I don't have to call them up and let them know where he'll be or the state he's in, do I?

[malicieux]

What happened to him, Mr. Bright?

[abrightboy]

Johann cut his throat.

[malicieux]

{ It is very concerning, except - }

Who is Johann?

[abrightboy]

He's a tree that mostly follows Florian around these days.

[malicieux]

I've played chess with Florian and never noticed any lurking trees.

{ He notes that, though, to keep his eyes out next time he comes across Florian. }

What reason did he have for taking a blade to Neal's throat?

[abrightboy]

I think you're more of an authority than I am on what makes someone cut a man's throat. He didn't like the look on his face. He didn't like his tone. Nothing. Everything.

[malicieux]

It's true I've been fortunate enough to experience it from both sides.

{ His voice sounds full of dry humour. }

Will you tell Neal I'll speak to him when he gets over the worst of it?

[abrightboy]

Sure.

[malicieux]

{ Another long pause. }

I realize you didn't have to tell me this, and I appreciate that you have. What has happened to Johann?

[abrightboy]

I don't know. He still has his communication device, though. His Warden's priority was the same as yours.

[malicieux]

My priority is knowing Neal is in a place where someone will keep an eye on him.

[abrightboy]

His Warden’s priority is the same as your Warden’s priority was. [Flatly, because he believes Lestat knew perfectly well what he meant and is being pedantic.] Protect the killer from consequences, no matter what.

[malicieux]

Are you truly petty enough to dredge up this back and forth on the heels of Neal's misfortune? Was contacting me with Neal's condition simply a way you could offer up your criticisms to me, or has the opportunity simply presented itself too nicely to ignore?

[abrightboy]

You did what you did. Take your licks. I don’t see why I should pretend it didn’t happen. It was yesterday.

Neal would want you to know what happened to him. I don’t have to like you to respect that. I’m sure he’ll want to hear from you once he wakes up. If you want to know about Johann, you can reach him with your device too.

[malicieux]

I do believe this conversation is about our mutual friend, not you and I. I imagine that Neal is out of danger now, but I trust you will ensure it regardless. I hope you can trust I will do the same without forcing my warden into another difficult spot.

[abrightboy]

Stop bleeding people and your Warden’s spot will be considerably easier.

I’ll look after Neal. He’s safe right now.

[malicieux]

Thank you.

{ Said with absolutely false politeness but at least the sentiment isn't dishonest. }

[abrightboy]

You’re welcome.