He heard about Vanity's meltdown and how it landed her in the pit through the grapevine, and there was no way he'd pass up asking for more juicy details straight from the source. He wondered whether it was just a moment of weakness or she had snapped for good.

Approaching the pit's lip, Black Hat sat perched like a raven and peered down at the lieutenant. There was another woman down there as well, and while he knew nothing about her or why she was here, she was of little interest at the moment. What are you doing down there, dear Vanity? He asked with just a dash of playful contempt.

So far, she seemed to be back to her normal self. He was a tad disappointed; seeing her torn at the seams would've giving him a good laugh. Ah, well. Equally aware of her ability leap out for a scrap with him, Black Hat remained firmly planted where he was. He'd toss her back in if he had to.

"Having a break," She answered. He tilted his head.

A break from what, exactly? If he could crack open her skull and see what went awry there, he would. Since he couldn't, this was the next best thing. Something had to push Vanity past her breaking point, and he doubted it was anything superficial. He knew he was prying, but he wouldn't push it too far if she clammed up. That was an exercise in futility.

I have. I was worried about you, you know. Good to see your head hasn't come totally unscrewed, 'Worried' wasn't the most accurate word to describe his reaction, but he wouldn't get anywhere in the world if all the connections he made were enemies.

He was visibly unimpressed at her answer. Laziness is unbecoming of anyone. Weren't you a queen? Even with the luxuries that came with being a king, Black Hat remained vigilant in his duties. Though both had once ruled, she was born into the title while he had to work his ass off for it. He was disappointed; it seemed Vanity was little more than a spoiled brat with a pretty face.

She made a show of laughing at his lie, seeing right through it. He snorted. Me? Selfish? Never, He jested, taking no offense to the accusation. It was true, anyone who remotely knew him could see that clear as day, including himself. Still, he was trying not to be overtly dickish, though their back and forth made it hard for him not to be a smartass.

She said no one was handed anything, but Black Hat begged to differ. Some are, He returned, speaking from experience. Whether she was one of those people or not, his opinion that she was lazy remained firm in the absence of evidence to refute it. Vanity went on to assert she would regain her title as queen once again, but those word rang hollow to him. We'll see about that. She was no doubt scheming something, but weren't they all? He didn't feel too threatened.

Silence fell between them. Not being one to relish the presence of others, he rose and turned to leave. But before he did, Black Hat shot something over his shoulder: I'll stop pestering you. Enjoy your vacation. With a lingering sneer, he departed.