[ There’s a sense like an acquiescing bow of his head as Akua offers her reminder of her prowess, and oh, he doesn’t forget it for a moment. He’d only seen her magical power once, and it was formidable, true, but her experience was what he respected more. He may not be capable of feeling fear, but if there was a Shard-Bearer that caused him to feel trepidation… It was Akua. Given the right knowledge and the simple want to do so, he has no doubts that she could best him with magic. It was a demon’s weakness, and he would argue it was his only one.

However, it’s why he keeps things amiable with Akua. She could learn the information necessary, but he could keep that fate at bay by showing that it was better for things to be amiable. He was fun and even helpful, so long as that’s where his whims were. But he’s sure she knows that the moment she tried to exert any chain upon him, she’d make a deadly, patient enemy in a moment.

…But that’s the fun of it for them both. They had a healthy respect for each other’s skill and knew the dire consequences of exerting it. ]

Oh, I understand missing it. I miss my own skill and influence that has been lost to me, certainly. Punishment, however…

[ —But naturally, he doesn’t speak of that unsaid undercurrent. There’s no need to draw attention to it. Not when something more interesting is before him. ]

I imagine it will not surprise you that I do not understand that portion. But I suppose that is what is different between us. Demon and human.

[ He hums thoughtfully, a warm, honeyed noise. ]

Would you want to feel as I do? To be incapable of feeling guilt?