Howlers don't a rat's ass for what I do here. [So, his ass,] Pushing, pulling, squeezing... I would do it all, but you're thinking too much about me touching you, grand inventor.
[Since he forgot, he'll just have to put more out there. But now he'll take a drink before he actually answers, though, since it takes choosing his words carefully. He can't have him getting the wrong idea here, that he's getting the upperhand. Even though with all that Paolo's risking... Well, he might.]
It's mutual benefit. [He finally says, shifting his weight and waving a hand dismissively. Like it wasn't big deal, though he was on edge to hear his answer.] You learn where to strike, and I learn where to dodge. I know what to look for if your things go batshit in my territory, and your gifted guests end up like nothing more than petty thieves.
[He just has to add,] And you get the pleasure of my company.
no subject
[Since he forgot, he'll just have to put more out there. But now he'll take a drink before he actually answers, though, since it takes choosing his words carefully. He can't have him getting the wrong idea here, that he's getting the upperhand. Even though with all that Paolo's risking... Well, he might.]
It's mutual benefit. [He finally says, shifting his weight and waving a hand dismissively. Like it wasn't big deal, though he was on edge to hear his answer.] You learn where to strike, and I learn where to dodge. I know what to look for if your things go batshit in my territory, and your gifted guests end up like nothing more than petty thieves.
[He just has to add,] And you get the pleasure of my company.