While Louis has grown adept at intuiting Daniel's questions, it turns out he needs more than a single word to operate from.

Lestat's voice, suddenly closer, louder. A rapid patter of questions that Louis absorbs, one hand settling across his chest, the other keeping the phone lifted to his mouth.

"They're sealed in a coffin, soon to be returned to whichever master they serve," Louis offers, submitting to the demand for information without objection. "I'm unharmed. As I said, it was a short conversation."

Rashid is overseeing the removal of a great deal of blood splatter in the hallway as they speak. It is hardly worth commentary.

"I prefer to invite the attention. I am well placed to receive our critics, while Daniel is touring."

Louis is older. He has been drinking from Armand for years. And he is responsible. Louis is the one who talked.