[ It's always a balancing act with Xenk. Lockwood does like to provide a sounding board for the other young blood, but tries to be careful not to step to far into Xenk's machinations. The other Gold vampire might be younger, but he is incredibly clever and has the sort of unfortunate background that has honed book smarts with street smarts.

And Xenk definitely has a better read of the castle political environment. Lockwood already has some thoughts on how he would pursue a situation like this, but his routes might not suit Xenk and he hasn't been asked for input. Thus, he keeps his thoughts to himself.

Beyond making a note of the name James Kirk. ]

You're usually spot on with your read of court choices. [ He agrees with that latter sentiment, purposefully avoids asking the obvious 'who is this maker' question. ]

What do you think it is about Blue, specifically, that currently holds such fascination for the lad?

[ A question designed to encourage Xenk's thought processes. Know thy target, student mine. ]