The penguin ... is funny, actually. Vahl has a complete chessboard of them in one of his studies. Even here at the villa, there are one or two dotted around the shelves in the kitchen. Every half-century or so, a new one finds its way into one of his shoes, or soup, or stuck to the soap in the bathroom.

"He didn't?" there's mirth in Vahl's eyes as he imagines well how this alien god creature might have reacted. "What I'd have given to be a fly on that wall. I wonder if I could pop into one of his dreams at some point?" That's always riskier with higher begins than it is with mortals. But it is tempting.

"So he's obviously aware of us. I'm assuming hell realm?" Alec hasn't said so much, but it's been strongly implied. "I'll chase Drake up. See if he has any contacts."

Completely not smug. *cough*sandwich.

Vahl can relate to that sudden urge to claim. He's done it occasionally with some of the more abused patients, who stood no chance in their situations or families. Most of the Kayori have done so at some point. "I wouldn't feel quite so embarrassed at doing that, if I were you. It's more easily done than not, on occasion." Vahl picks up his T-pad and starts tapping at it, jotting down 'must do' notes. "This Abdiron, repugnant individual one assumes?"