Last Alchemist
You relax your grip just enough to show you’re willing to listen, though the dagger remains steady in your hand. “You’ve risked everything to stand before me,” you say in a calm but firm tone. “Speak now, and make it worth your life.” Her gaze flickers nervously between you and the glowing ward as she stammers out her response.You fix your gaze on the glowing ward, then meet her eyes with a dismissive glare. “This isn’t the time,” you mutter icily, pivoting toward the room’s edge. Your retreat is a ruse, and as the darkness swallows you, you circle back quietly, observing her every move for any slip of information.You retreat cautiously, dagger poised, and channel your energy into the ward, weaving an extra layer of shimmering threads to bind her more securely. “Stay put,” you command firmly, your voice cutting through her protests as you solidify her confinement, buying yourself time to plan your next steps.Keeping the dagger steady but easing the tension in your stance, you narrow your eyes. “I don’t believe you mean no harm,” you say, your tone sharp but measured. “If that’s true, then explain yourself—convince me we can resolve this without violence.” Her shoulders relax just a fraction, though her wary gaze doesn’t falter as she takes a tentative step forward and begins to speak.