Carlos considered the offer. "I was thinking of fortifying this place," he said. "The trouble is, there's two doors, and it would be impossible for me to guard both. I could block one off, but that would cut off an escape route, and I don't want to do that." He looked at Mouse, appraising. Skinny kid, unarmed, making nerdy jokes, Carlos mused. Probably not about to turn around and stab him in the back, and he could definitely use Mouse's help.

"Okay," he said. "A truce it is." Carlos put the mace down, sliding it under one of the planetarium chairs. Out of quick and easy reach. He'll hold out a hand for Mouse to shake, once they're close enough.