"You didn't." Oh, Richard probably can manhandle Alec, but that'll make everything slower and more complicated. So he speaks blithely, his ear careful towards the stairs. They're not trying to break down the door yet, but he can hear them. "I'm doing it for myself.

"And I did climb out of Lord Horn's window. Well, first in, and then out. I think I'm all set for now, as far as the Hill is concerned. But I can fit in your suggestions next month."

Of course, if they're both here for Alec to make them.

"Come. Be dramatic with me."