"Ah- it's a good thing that someone is working out the peculiar tastes of that little beastie. I'm afraid I've been shirking my practice. The last time I tried, the ruddy thing nipped my fingers."

He lifts a hand for just a second as if to demonstrate. Not only is there not a single scratch on him, there are no creases on the backs of his fingers. But he listens with a warm regard around mouthfuls of tea and a few bites of toast. Nice to see him relax a little.

"András Schiff- I'll make a note of it. I've frequented the karaoke place quite a bit- April- do you know April? You might not- once hosted a little shindig there. Didn't realise they had classical pieces, though, how lovely- I should see if they have any opera."

A little moment of respite in pleasantries, and then he leans back in his seat, picking up his tea once again.

"And how are you otherwise, my good man?"