[ The rejection of comfort isn’t taken as a slight. Though Viktor now has to look up at Mr. Talis, he’s been forced to sit through enough of his life to have learned how to carry himself as someone worthy of respect while physically below others. He also knows how priceless the moments are when he doesn’t have to give in to his chronic pain and can remain on the same level as someone—perhaps this is such a moment for his guest. ]

Ah, you’ve seen straight through me. [ Viktor’s lips quirk up in a guilty little smile. ] Aside from the pleasantries of introducing myself, I wished to satisfy some curiosity. My father told me your family name, and it rang a bell. [ At least enough to have Viktor looking into why it could be that he found it familiar and instead found several news articles. ] You’re something of an innovator, Mr. Talis.