Last Alchemist
You feign a frustrated sigh, turning your back to the intruders as if you’re retreating. “Stay here if you want, but I’m leaving,” you call out dismissively, moving toward the far corner. The injured one narrows their eyes, while the younger one shifts uneasily, torn between staying and following. You pause just behind a pillar, muscles coiled, prepared to act if they decide to chase.Keeping the vial in your grasp but easing its prominence, you let its green luminescence soften the tension in the room. “We don’t need to escalate this,” you say calmly, your gaze shifting between the intruders. “If there’s something you’re after, speak now—there might be a way forward for both of us.” The older intruder hesitates, their expression hardening, while the younger one glances nervously between you and their partner.You retreat cautiously, your gaze darting around the room for anything sturdy enough to block the entrance. Spotting a heavy table, you drag it across the floor and brace it against the doorway, buying yourself precious moments as the injured intruder groans and the younger one hesitates, their hand lingering near their weapon.Keeping the alchemical vial steady in your grasp, its eerie luminescence casting shadows across the room, you lock eyes with the intruder. “You’re out of moves,” you say with measured authority. “Speak now, or I’ll take matters into my own hands.” The older intruder winces but holds their ground, while the younger one falters, their gaze darting between you and their partner in uncertainty.