Francis didn't know what went on in Malachi's mind but he figured the man didn't believe him about Linus. Fair, it might not be true. Probably not. But there was no way to be sure now. And it was still possible.

He studied him, as the other's demeanor was far different than when he appeared behind him in the hall. Despite being the same height, the other seemed towering and menacing. Now, he was ...human.

Francis rest his cheek on his hand as he watched him. "Was it out of grief? Or something else? Did you want to share the ability to be patient that he shared with you? So you could try to act as he did and have similar results?" It was unlikely and he meant it in no malicious way. He was , as always, curious.