"We can rule all those out, at least," Claudius says with some amusement -- hungry as his mind is for explanations, there's something reassuring about finding himself on the same page as a famed cultivator with knowledge and powers Claudius would need another lifetime to reach. Especially after a day of near-constant reminders of how greatly outclassed Claudius is in any real crisis. "Crowley and I exchanged some theories -- not about the fractured time, but about the nature of this place and the forces keeping us here. I suspect they're related, in the sense that any raconteur knows not to let details get in the way of a good story. The rules of this place seem to shift to accommodate more entertaining outcomes -- if not for us, then whoever may be watching." Expecting this to be more reassuring than abstract philosophizing, he adds, "I was safe the whole time, I think. I spent a great deal of time thinking through the ways I was most likely to die, but every time, there was someone to keep me safe. I'm very fortunate. I think people might even like me here."