" John,be reasonable," Virginia said. "I've known Billy a very long time, and we have had some great adventures together. He's as close as I have to a friend.When he dies, which he will,sooner or later,because he can be so stupid," she added, glaring at the American immortal, "it should be with a degree of dignity,rather than being fed to this...this thing."
"Thanks," Billy wheezed.
"You're welcome.And you owe me."
"I'll remember."
Virginia turned back to Dee. "I'll make a deal."
"For what?" he demanded.
"For Billy's life," she said evenly.
"Do you forget who you're dealing with?" Dee snarled.
"Do you?" she asked softly. "

― Michael Scott , The Warlock (The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel, #5)