[A change in M.O., eh? Henry's not actually sure what to make of Niles' shift in lurking behavior, but he takes to it about as readily as he might take to a decapitation. What he doesn't precisely take to is the sight of Niles in disarray, though it's not as if he falters much.

It's alarming, at worst.

But Henry's seasoned to this ilk of dealing, and he shakes his head with the same easygoing smile he always wears, hair longer than his usual dancing about his face with the emphasis of it.]

Aw, don't worry about that collar. I don't need it back. I could always fashion up a newer, bloodier model, anyhow. Not that I have any real use for it. [Here, he accepts the pouch. He peeks inside with a laugh.] Whoa, sticky fingers here swiped up some tactile treasure! I'm touched, nya ha!

[The severity or gravity of this situation might be a little lost on someone so gruesome as Henry, who focuses on the gory details. But he regards Niles more carefully — for all Henry kills with great ease, seeing people in pain isn't his favorite thing.]

Do you want some of my healing magic? I've only gotten better at it since Bonding, you know! I'd say I'm the best dark mage healer I know, and I'm not even bragging.

[He doesn't know a single dark mage healer. That's why.]