Petyr Baelish. [Said Chilton, unblinking, his blank expression softening and almost adopting the warmth of familiarity.] Lord Petyr Baelish. He comes from a brutal world, I find it both unpleasant and fascinating. He sees himself in me. [Something that Baelish had said, something that Chilton believed. He wanted to believe it.] He understands what it is like, being outside and looking in. Adept, adaptable, quick with learning. Democracy is not a concept in his world, and yet he understood the nuances of our political system within weeks. He has a way with people, a charm. He understands power in a way that few individuals do, he has convinced the city council of Maurtia Falls and the state government to fund my hospital.

[It was a glowing testament, an itinerary of excellent opinion. Chilton was easily wooed by important, charming men who considered him to be worth their time.]

He can see potential in the neuroatypical. The truly remarkable, unique minds.

[A point poignantly lodged in Chilton's own heart; his ambitions aligned with Baelish because they shared -- at least to some degree -- a very similar philosophy: chaos was crucial. And both men thought they could control chaotic elements.

But Chilton wanted to use that to transform institutions in his image, whereas Baelish would sooner destroy a system than be beholden to it.]

He is going to get what he wants. He has suffered the loss of his wife -- [Lysa, which Baelish had halfway misinformed Chilton about.] -- And I doubt he will allow emotional vulnerability again any time soon.

[With his head tilted to the right, his green eyes still staring ahead, Chilton's eased body exhibited no sign of resistance, no struggle. It would have caused him great chagrin, even ego-born agony.]

He likes mockingbirds. His affinity for them indicates something more than symbolism. Birds follow him. I think --

[The tick of a second. A short, shallow breath.]