B2 Chapter 18: An Offer
Carlos chuckled at Trinlen's dumbfounded stare. Impulsively, he mentally triggered Purple's automation to make another miniature Lorvan caricature. Lorvan calmly speared it the instant it fully formed, before it could even get its bearings, much less yell another mockery of his habitual seriousness.
[Hey! I may get most of the cost back when they die, but that doesn't mean they're free.] Purple's admonishment came with a feeling of disgruntled annoyance.
Carlos winced, chagrined. [Sorry. I'll try to avoid spending your resources that frivolously again.]
Trinlen, oblivious to the telepathic exchange, recovered his wits and laughed. "Lorvan, did you just make a joke?"
Lorvan kept his face neutral and replied matter-of-factly. "I believe you already know the answer to that."
Trinlen hesitated. "I… think that's a confirmation?
Amber stepped in, smiling brightly but holding back any laughter. "Joke or not, I think we achieved our goals for that, er, 'monster', and we have a lot of other important work to do."
"Right. Developing our second stage as nobles." Carlos nodded and took a deep breath. "Good work, Trinlen, but I'm afraid it will be a while before we'll have any attention available for you again."
Trinlen shrugged. "I can find things to occupy myself with, don't worry. Just let me know." He gave a jaunty salute and sauntered off.