Said 'naughty lying priest' scoffed at the implication of being such. When Mister Tully turned to face him, Malachi had to lean his head back just to keep from touching. It was easy to mask what he thought right then, but when the beggar turned around again he didn't bother.

Malachi had to look away, just to keep himself from glaring a hole right through the back of his head.

He truly thought that not being allowed to touch him was the same as being denied something essential? Did he think so of all the priests he met, or only him and his 'wasted' appearance?

"Quite easily, it would seem," returned the priest. Hands pushed against the edge of the stove, and he moved away from Mister Tully without further contact. He set about searching the kitchen again, and once he'd found a bowl, he left it on the counter within reach of his guest.

"You can work with me or not. Whatever pleases you," Malachi stated as he sat down at the table. One leg crossed the other, and a hand rested on top.

"But begging like a dog will get you nowhere with me."