[The machine makes its way over to him-- something of its usual grace has managed to return, but it's very clear that its muscles still ache and tremble, struggling to support it at certain angles.

It eases its way to the edge of the tub beside L, and turns to adjust the water, taking the edge off the icy temperature; and then it turns that vivid gaze onto L's own, and there is a tightness within its frame that goes deeper than muscle, than bone, its posture hard lines and chin held sharply back to stare at him down its nose.]

I understand that you were upset. But, L. If you and I are going to be a team, I need you to know something.

[It reaches out to grab his chin roughly in its fingers, to ensure it holds his gaze.]

If you ever behave that way towards me again, I won't hesitate to do everything in my power to make you regret it. Do you understand?

[As though it's just given him a formal user agreement, its tone disturbingly even despite the clear threat in its words.]