Speaking on the nature and existence of his soul has a sensitivity behind it Jean-Claude doesn't want to discuss. It's been centuries since he was alive, but being born a medieval era French Catholic isn't something he can ever totally shed.

Less religious questions about the way monsters cope with having once been human ... Jon's overt demonstration of being willing to act on his behalf has won him a lot more honesty.

"Sometimes I think I have a different opinion every century," he answers with a smile that intentionally shows his fangs. They look almost delicate. "This is a good century, a good decade, even. As Master of the City, things are much better, for me and for all those I have authority over in St. Louis. I can ensure that. It was not the same under Nikolaos." By now, Jon has certainly heard the name of the last Master of St. Louis.

"If I am comparing to where and when I was born, it is no comparison. If you mean better to be a vampire now than to be a human - truthfully, I do not wonder such things anymore. If you do not like what you are, mon égaré, change your environment so you may act like what you are a little less. That is what I did. I have not had an unwilling donor in decades."