[ Alec has spent enough time around Pal to be able to recognize his secretly-not-that-annoyed face. Seeing it directed at Aisha gives him an odd sense of satisfaction, even though he wouldn't have cared if Pal disapproved.

Joking about Camilla murdering him is another positive sign. He never does that when he might actually want Alec dead. He's opening his mouth to say something as the bed shifts next to him - ]

...great demonstration, Pal. [ He drawls, shaking his head. ] Very impressive. A skeleton that fights itself? Now, that's innovation in skele-warfare.

[ He rubs a spot on his ribs absently, chasing a phantom ache, and leans back on one hand to watch the skeleton disintegrate with mild interest. ]