[ Istredd comes in and his eyes dart around, making notes of all the details both changed and the same. Sometimes there are signs about someone's mentality based on that, but the dogs themselves are not a surprise. He smiles awkwardly at the hounds, knowing they're important to Mace, and generally Istredd does like animals. He just has very little experience with them, never being in a place where he could adopt one himself. ]

I appreciate your flexibility and willingness to see me, High Mage.

[ Istredd is formal by nature with strangers but he tries to take his cues from Mace's own easy-going approach and relaxes slightly. He and Ambrose were always brisk and to the point, and he appreciated that. He'll have to read this situation a little more fluidly. ]

Yes. Lucifer says hello, I believe you've gotten to know my partner somewhat.

[ Istredd knows that Lucifer tried to speak to Mace after he was taken to the dungeons, and that overall Lucifer likes the man, which is a very rare occurrence. He tries again to loosen up, easing the tension in his shoulders. ]

I was on polite terms with your predecessor, although nothing more than that. He allowed me access to research on the Singularity.