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'Ah. Hmm. Well, that's an interesting theory, Hector. But have you considered that possibility that you might be crazy?'

'I'm considering the possibility that YOU might be.'

'Hey, now, let's not start throwing those kinds of insults around.'

'I literally just said what you said first.'

'And that was very low of you, Hector. You're not supposed to stoop to my level. You need to be more gracious and understanding. And to let me abuse you verbally without fighting back. It's only fair.'

'Garovel, are you sure you're feeling okay? And not, like, EXTRA stupid or anything?'

'I'll have you know that I feel just fine, thank you very much. But your concern is noted.'

And it seemed like the reaper intended for the conversation to end there, but Hector wasn't yet satisfied. 'That's... not good enough, Garovel. If we weren't in the presence of a telepathic bird that can fuck with people's minds, then I might feel differently. But since we are, you've gotta give me something more. I need to know you're okay.'

'Ugh. What, are you planning to put me back in an iron jar again?'

'Technically, they're orbs, not jars.'

'Whatever. I don't like confined spaces, Hector.'

'I didn't think you did, Garovel. But I don't want the Sparrows screwing with your head.'

'They're not screwing with my head.'

'Are you sure? Would you even be able to tell if they were? I mean, they can mess with memories, you know?'

'Alright, alright, geez. Okay. You got me. It's not Hanton making me act weird. I've been acting weird deliberately.'

Hector paused his materialization work to glance at Garovel. 'Say what?'

'Listen. Hector. I don't know if you've noticed, but I'm not the only one who's been acting differently lately. You have, too.'

'I have?'

'Yes. And just like how you've become concerned with my behavior, I was becoming... well, slightly concerned with yours. Overall, I think you're doing great. But that in itself is also worrying.'

Hector just remained quiet, not sure what to say.