I would not be surprised, either. [he frowns, then snaps in sudden concern, his voice rough]

He hasn't made a contract with anyone?

[and he hates himself, but some of that concern is for 1412, because to go so long without a contract or a death means the madness grows, and boredom rises - and some terrible, intricate game will unfold, leaving 1412 weak and shaking at the cumulation of it, bodies scattered in his wake]