William sat on the floor of his laboratory, his back against the black stone wall, surrounded by parchments and empty flasks. He had prepared everything to ascend, having already taken the mental stabilizer to avoid repercussions.
"What are you doing?" he sent a message through his collar, and the reply was swift.
"I'm in the alchemy lab with Nere. We're studying the healing potion… all good for now."
William smiled softly. For the past six months, Lia and Nere had grown closer, especially when he wasn't available. Still, every time William appeared, Nere usually ran off with poorly constructed excuses, as if trying to avoid him at all costs. At first, he didn't pay attention, but then he couldn't help but ask Lia if he had done something to offend her. Lia replied that her family strictly forbade her from getting close to him, so she couldn't allow rumors. This answer left William feeling bittersweet, as he knew the reputation he had but could do nothing to avoid it.
