It's a good trick. (It is a trick John admires, knows by heart. Slight of hand is such an ingrained talent.) But the expression on John's face betrays no charity or pleasure in the deception at all.

"Have done with it," comes without hesitation. "I see no further use for him."

If it is vengeful, then so be it.

John is plucking already at some other spell, something meant to mend and patch. Yes, he's capable of healing, but it isn't his natural provenance. The deepening of those black veins in Bertalan's throat illustrate that very clearly.

Frozen and held as he is, all the man is permitted is the frenetic dart of his eyes. Still seeking a way out, an escape. Some crack in the vise grip John has applied to him.