"Oh... it only took a few years." And in the long game David had planned for the Spades, that had been no time at all. In the short term, though, it was very difficult.

"I believe Mr. Fox likes you more, Clive. Be a good King and you may not have to worry." Not nearly as reassuring as he could have been. Ah, well. Time to go. It didn't look like that mirror that used to sit behind the desk was there anymore. Pity, that.

"Just as well. He's always had odd appetites. Well, I must be off, Joker... things, you know. So time consuming." He didn't even try to lie well anymore. What a waste of practice.