What about the rest of these people? They willfully play along with this deception, does that make them dependable? Do they see it, too? After a while, there's only so much that can be done, even ourselves.

[It's strange, Alice felt a small burst of self-confidence, but now it seems fleeting. Undeserving. She's shaking her head. He's so sure of himself, Alice is a little jealous.]

Do they wish to kill you, sir?