It could see the intelligence of Giuseppe's words. Keep enemies close and all that. What It could not see was if Giuseppe numbered among enemies or friends, in this case. Perhaps that was why the creature found him so enchanting. Frankly, It did not know whether she wanted to lick the marrow from his corpse or lock together with him - claws and teeth in back and shoulder, respectively. Perhaps a little of both. So infrequently did It find others It thought may be equals. It was undecided about the man. Eyes closed and It remembered fire and chaos and It purred. They snapped open to the vellum that lay upon the desk beside the irritating pet of the whelp. The mouse was in hiding, peeking out at the monster from the nest made of felt and cloth, feathers and bones. In a moment of irritation, It closed the cage door with relish and set aside the letter for Gloria - to be delivered later - and began another after easing the wildling into a restful state within her mind.
It was time to change the state of play. Time to play both sides until It figured out which was the winning one. It made efforts to please both, so that It could shift with ease, when the time came. Like all long-living creatures, It was a selfish sort. Others were so fragile, so quick to succumb to death. Why bother with concerning Itself about their feelings, their lives? Niall has such promise, but It felt the girl had been shackled with grief about Elliot. Useless for the moment. It had to make sure that It did not fall. Not again. It was the only thing that mattered. And, for the moment, the whelp. With a smile, the quill was taken up and she scribed.
Dearest,
I have taken time to think on your words. I am beginning to find the wisdom in working with your Lady. The childish rebellion against her is fraying at the edges. They are like lost lambs. Weakening in your attempts to undermine. You are clever, darling, but I am certain that you know that. As I have informed you, Olwak has not seen any reason to work with me. I can not seek employ unless you speak with her. She can only see the girl held captive by a monster. I request your counsel in this, as one familiar. I know you do not favor the written word, so we may speak at your convenience.
Do not leave me waiting long.
- Yours, X