"But poker is fun," Gabe said brightly. "Who wouldn't want to play poker? Or maybe blackjack?" The last was said almost in afterthought and with a bite of laughter as the Archangel glanced at Ghastly, fully aware of why the tailor was objecting.

Gabe squeezed Skulduggery's arm lightly in thanks and took a seat with a sigh, wincing a little as he sat back and tucked his feet up under the pew. At least this one was furthest from the altar, which, despite Prave's obvious incompetence, could only be a very good thing as far as the Archangel was concerned.

"Did anyone bring the cards?" he wondered out loud, and then grinned at Fletcher. "Or shall we have language lessons? Or go back to talking about dogs?"