"Hmm. I suppose I can see why some people might think that was their only option. You do have people willingly giving up their souls in Hell, after all."

At the hawk's uncomfortable shifting, Alastor waved his hand carelessly.

"Oh, I'm not offended! It's only natural you'd be cautious about such things! Particularly if one's free will can be usurped by some parasite intent on conquest. Why invite more trouble than what you already have? If you've got a question, ask away! Even if for no other reason than that deer you brought me is worth significantly more than a 'I don't know about any evil parasites hellbent on taking over this dream world'. Mind I can't tell you everything, of course, but I won't lie to you. A Deal Maker who doesn't keep his word finds himself with no one to make Deals with."