So you're saying you prefer someone lying to you by making the hollow gestures, rather than the inherent respect of treating you like a competent adult who understands emotional deception? You would rather have the illusion.

[Chilton arched an eyebrow, his gaze scouring.]

I employ my powers when I find the situation dangerous enough to use them. You don't exactly have a shining record of good ethical behavior yourself, you know. You're just as likely to buddy with Crane again as much as you're not -- the plight of a whimsical nature such as yours, I imagine.

But I don't hold that nature against you, Abduxel, not vindictively. You are, however, doing your own intelligence a disservice if you think I'm foolish enough to lower my defenses around a highly capable, vastly powerful demon with lingering emotions for at least a couple of my own enemies!