Okay, I've got an idea. Here's the rewritten section:

Quote
“Only, remember the rule. We’ve been denied the power of life and death.”

Klpzyxm nodded. He knew the rule. If people wanted to kill themselves or each other, that was fine. After all, stirring up wars and rumors of wars was the bread and butter of his ilk. But to kill directly was the ultimate no-no. No, he’d have to be more creative than that.
Does that work better?

ML wave


She was in such a good mood she let all the pedestrians in the crosswalk get to safety before taking off again.
- CC Aiken, The Late Great Lois Lane