"There is absolutely nothing wrong is accepting help from someone who may or may not kill you," Rae says, dryly. "Shows what they know."

"But," assures Inigo, "I promise not to kill you until you reach the top."

"That's very comforting," replies the man in black, "but I'm afraid you'll just have to wait."

"...I hate waiting."

Rae snickers. "They've reached a stalemate, it seems, for now."

"Isn't there any way you'll trust me?"

"...Nothing comes to mind," grits the man in black, trying for another handhold.

But then, Inigo solemnly swears on the soul of his father that the man will reach the top alive.


"Oooh," Rae is impressed.