[Many of the angels in the city are still on some scale of lifeless, it's true. But the guards, at least, upon seeing Kratos's companion, do finger their weapons with an uncertain air of consternation -- skeletons are not normally known for being rational. That Skulduggery's mana presents the way it does is more of a cause for unease than anything else.

[For his own part, Kratos sends out a tight broadcast to the team responsible for establishing outposts, and one of the comms officers, even while he answers the guard verbally.]

I'm establishing open relations with the mage community on the planet. Their humans can use mana.

[Kratos turns at Skulduggery's voice, and the puff of air makes the guards tense some more. Kratos shakes his head at them.]

I've no doubt he's dangerous if he wants to be, but he isn't a threat. Skulduggery?

[Hm. Kratos doesn't know that word Skulduggery just used. He pulls out the book and opens it up, head tipped quizzically.]

Friend?