"If we're being wholly honest," he says, leaning forward to set his current volume aside, "I am more interested in the how of squids than the why. Where exists the line between blood magic and divine power? To what degree do Sleepers contain a spark of the same godhood? Is Mariana the originator of this world's magic in all its forms, and in all things we see traces of her will; ergo, squids?"

But he waves her towards the books with an air of have at it, and sits back in his chair.

"Odd fluctuations in behavior seems to be a staple," he admits. "Though I'll confess it's a bit more hostile than average, this month."