"If it's important," he agrees firmly, reassuring.

What that definition of 'important' though is very different when you're a Chaos-blooded mage and an inhuman celestial creature.

He's toying a very careful line but he's had enough private conversations that he made sure Istredd couldn't key into that when he's very focused, as he's been this entire trip, he'd pass a lie detector. Keep whatever level his thoughts have been at, like maintaining a heart rate. Steady, allowing a form of concern to show through.

The best lies are the truth. Omission, obfuscation. Not telling someone everything, telling them the truth--but specifically the parts they'd want to hear, or give them something to obscure what you're really trying to hide.

I just don't want you to feel chained down to me; that's not fair. He frowns at Istredd. We're partners, I don't control you, even if it would make my life way easier, sometimes.