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“I will tell you this,” said Rofal. “That money was my means of acquiring an introduction with certain... like-minded individuals.”

“I see,” said Colt. “Is that all ruined now?”

“For the time being, yes. A frustrating set back. But I’m sure another opportunity will present itself in time.”

Colt swilled his whiskey around the glass.

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“Agh... where am I...?”

“Relax. I’ve got you.”

“Ah... this again, huh?”

“I have to hold onto your soul while we wait for Colt’s children to arrive.”

“Okay... but, uh... this feels... a little different from the last time...”

“Well, without sounding too corny, our souls have had time to get acclimated to one another.”

“What does that mean...?”

“We’ve bonded.”

“Aww... come to think of it... this does kinda feel like a warm hug.”

“Hmm, I suppose it does.”

“It’s really nice...”

“Uh. Okay.”

“Hold me more tightly, Garovel.”

“Getting a bit weird now.”

“Haha. So, uh. What’s going on with Colt? I can't see anything.”

“He’s speaking with Rofal now. He’s not getting much information out of him.”

“But Rofal doesn’t suspect anything?”

“Not yet. It’s been a bit boring, actually. They’re just waiting for the kids to arrive. Colt’s asking about his plans, but Rofal is being predictably cryptic.”

“So... what do you think now? You said before that you needed more time to observe, but... do you, um... do you think I should kill Rofal?”

“No, I don’t think you should.”

“Really? Why?”

“Because we still don’t know what will happen to Rofal’s business in the event of his death. Contrary to popular belief, cutting the head off the snake doesn’t always work. I don’t think his enterprise will just dissolve.”