[ Lestat firms his expression a little at that; he can clearly tell how much of an impact this man has had on Ethan, and he wonders if the pale faced woman he'd seen on Ethan's first night here has anything to do with this level of ire toward the vampires of his world, and their master. If that's the case, then it's no surprise that Ethan would have dispatched him without a second thought - or tried to, at least - had he not defused the situation when he had. ]

I am loyal to you, as a man who's shown me kindness despite having more than enough reason not to.

[ He had lied, after all, and misled Ethan for his own sake. He hadn't been worried about what a lie might do to Ethan's mental state then, he'd only been concerned with staying out of having to defend himself against a man much more accustomed to fighting than him — what a mess it could have become if he hadn't. Now, though, he feels guilt for hiding it for so long but also defiance that Ethan would doubt his resistance. ]

I am a strong vampire, very strong. The strongest here, I don't doubt. A formidable vampire means nothing to me, lord amongst minions or not. [ He puts a hand to Ethan's shoulder, his blue eyes intent and boring into Ethan's, his expression plain and his voice firm. ] I mean what I say, Ethan. I can't be swayed by any thrall. I won't kneel.

[ It feels a little strange to be siding so resolutely against his own kind, but then this creature sounds so far from what he would consider familiar that perhaps that's why he believes the words he says to Ethan so thoroughly. ]

Should he arrive here, you won't have to worry about meeting his power. I'll give you any and all opportunity I can to exact what revenge you feel you need. I give you my word.