ornithologist | .//INBOX

[ Ah, now that's the kind of conversation he knows how to have. Harold turns on a dime from vaguely annoyed and smarmy to absolutely composed. This is the Harold Finch who runs complex multi-agent operations simultaneously. Sometimes they end up with allies who used to be enemies and vice-versa, and he's not opposed to the idea. Personal feelings need not apply. ]

And to Ms. Mason? Yes, I agree. I can call on more resources than you might expect, so please do notify me if you are aware of anything.

Yes, and Heather, as well. I'd rather she remain safe above all else.

[ Vincent tugs on his clothes as he adjusts his attire. The desire to be angry or spiteful has faded since the most important thing is established. At the very least, he can make sure the man will keep his mouth shut. He points his finger to the side and flicks his finger upward. That's enough. ]

Understand, I expect the same. [ A sigh. ] I intend to acquire enough points in order to ensure Heather will not suffer any detriment should she die. Just in case you're working toward the same goal, or perhaps, you've already acquired that for her?

[ That's an interesting comment, but one Harold doesn't contest or pry into. On a basic level he agrees simply due to Heather's age. ]

I can agree to notifying you if I'm aware of any threats to them.

[ That's a concession for Harold, who normally refuses to make explicit promises about what information he will and won't share. Hearing Vincent is already banking points to protect Heather from the consequences of a potential death softens him considerably, too. ]

Not for her specifically, but in general I've stockpiled enough points to cover the cost, and I would be more than willing to use them on her behalf. Or Ms. Maria's.

[ Maria losing one of the few memories she has seems uniquely horrifying. ]

Thank you.

[ Interlacing his fingers, he decides to give some information that he has found out about those points and what he has already done for Maria. ]

I already gave Maria the means to avoid punishment from death. Truth be told, I can't imagine harm coming to Heather, but I realize that was short-sighted of me. [ He shrugs his shoulders. ] You need to give them the item beforehand.

I attempted to return something that a person lost from their death, but ... they can't give it back if it's already been lost. So, it has to already be in their possession. [ He tips his head. ] I felt it wise for you to know that in case that change anything for you or yours.

[ There's some time before the next response comes. ]

Apologies for the delay; I was confirming with Aurora.

She said a physical object is not necessary, but it does have to be assigned in advance or immediately after the moment of death. Thank you for telling me -- I'll make adjustments to my planning accordingly.

[ In a variety of ways, not all of which he'll disclose to Vincent. He'll collaborate on protecting Maria and Heather, but no further. ]

I do hate that you had to confirm it, but I understand.

[ He's already waving his hand as he accepts that he is the one who used the word "item." But either way, it's nice to be told that he is right. ]

Yes, well -- [ He snaps his fingers. ] Thank you, what?

[ He hates that he had to confirm it? Does he seriously expect Harold to take what he's saying on trust when he'd also just unapologetically admitted to it taking him months to get around to reaching out? ]

... Are you expecting something further from me?