"So long as Charlie wants me around, you won't be rid of me so easily," Alastor scoffed. But that was telling in and of itself - so long as he's wanted.

"I don't think Charlie would take advantage, no. A rare case indeed, wholly unique in a sea of those that have every one of their limbs tangled in the ladder they're trying to climb to the top of. She doesn't even realize she sits comfortably on top. But she isn't meek, either."

The power dynamics spoke for themselves, in a weird way. A circumstantial storm that made someone as utterly genuine as the Princess turned out to be.

"But I am under no illusions that she would prioritize me over anyone else. I don't need her to - she needs the guidance of someone she doesn't have to care for."