[He laughs, face twisting into a grin as he leans in a bit closer. He's enjoying this far too much -- it's been a while since he's gotten to bargain with someone like this.]

You're putting a lot more thought into it this time... how interesting.

[He'll get to the lie part in a second -- first, the protection part.]

Were you to ask that I protect those important to you in any given situation, I would agree wholeheartedly. Additionally, I suppose I could be convinced to look the other way, should someone harm or otherwise hurt you-- and you insisted on sparing them.

[It's probably a good thing he brought this up -- since Mephisto has very little tolerance for those who damage what belongs to him.]

However-- should anyone you deem worthy of protection become my enemy through their own actions... I would consider it the same as though you yourself betrayed me.

So do take care in who you choose.