[ There's something heady to being direct and having it accepted so readily. Balthier had been fully braced to part ways; he always was. David's hand in his didn't enter his calculations. He processes too slowly to react before David pulls his hand away. ]

I think epic poet with myself as the main character may be too grandiloquent even for me. But I wouldn't refuse a private audience. I'm not sure if I shouldn't be more careful about the shape I'm painting. [ Honestly he's both flattered and a bit intimidated. He's excellent at cons and bluffing. He's not sure what's actually there will hold up. But that's the point, isn't it? Learning to stand in that truth, too. ]

I can agree to that -- I've learned my lesson about acting alone. And you're clearly both experienced and brilliant. Both are helpful when trying to save the world.

[ If he knew about David's decision, he would both melt and be so caught by surprise that he would, as was rare occasion in his life, be at a loss for words. He's used to people flirting and charming him. He's not used to them seeing him, the real him, or sticking around. He feels that something has shifted though, and he's a little more at ease. ]

I know better than to waste the favor of someone so skilled. I'll let you know.

[ This time when he follows David's lead, there's no pull to be in control, no anxious energy. He could get used to that. ]