[ So far, J has played the part of the cautious observer when it comes to being within any proximity to the Regent. He knows every interaction with this being is a dangerous thing. Any information he gives up, any weakness he reveals, could later be exploited for whatever reason their ruler deems suitable.

In the here and now, that ironclad caution has bled away with something else inside the demon, that leaves him appearing surprisingly human for something born within hell's slums. Deprived of any sleep that isn't haunted by unending nightmares, and holding vigil over a headless body that refuses to rot, even with his ability to heal into perpetuity, J is beginning to look weathered. Worn thin in spirit and mind. Like a feral thing starved half to death, but in a way that makes it sharper-edged and all the more vicious instead of weak. Because something of value to him has come under threat. And if J has to salt and burn half of Horos to return what rightfully belongs in his possession, all the Regent has to do is give him permission-

And J will light that fire.

So the demon approaches the throne, absent of all the flourished, extraneous gestures and ease by which he typically moves. Stripped down to something harder, J slightly bends at the waist in a show of respect, and stays there a moment. ]

Forgive the abrupt nature of this request, but I seek a private audience with your excellency, whenever it's most convenient.