"It's a decent defense. Especially against people who he knows aren't likely to punch him. A way to shift the ground of argument, put us back on our heels." It was easier to see now that he'd had some time to calm down and sorted. But Neal's details tell Raylan that he was one of the last people Malcolm told directly that he'd gone through with it or at the very least, not one of the first. It wasn't fair to Malcolm but that stung a little too.

"He came to me before it too, though I can't say how long before.. Asked me what I thought - I was against it too. Doesn't seem worth it. He told me it was for bond, for connection, for the sharper senses and strength.. That's what he wanted help with. I don't know that he's thought about the loss of humanity that's possible now, but he wants to feel safe. Wants to not be ostracized by his people for the choice. And I can't do that to him. He's made the choice so all we can do is support him if it bites him in the ass."