I smiled behind my mask as I watched the alchemist, his mannerisms becoming more tired, his speech becoming a touch slurred. The poison was working.

"Don't worry too much about repayment. I don't have much need right now, but I might want a few things from your shop down the line. I'm not going to hold it over your head; I'll just make a few requests for potions or ingredients for my own work."

Nevin rose from his seat on shaky feet. Hype was immediately at his side, offering to steady him by draping his arm around her shoulder.

"If you insist on leaving, then I will help you back to your camp," she cooed. "We can't have our new friend collapse in the woods from exhaustion! That would be rude and unbecoming of us!"

I stood as well, knowing that our meeting was coming to a close. I picked up the tea tray and the leftover cookies, stuffing one in my mouth as I turned towards the door. "You'll be safe as long as Hyperion is with you. It was a pleasure meeting you, Nevin. I look forward to working with you in the future."