His lips curled up in a Cheshire cat grin as Zugos dusted the ashes from his hands. She sounded eager and not a slightest hint of doubt in her voice. Which was good. “ I can do that, yes. Though it would take quite a lot of energy. And I’m also sticking my head out for this, princess. This is no ordinary witch. So, you’d understand if I want some type of…compensation.”- He paused for a moment, thoughts rushing through his mind. There wasn’t actually anything he wanted from the royal family, at least for now. However, a favor from them might prove to be quite useful in the future. He would just have to come up with something to make sure they keep their words.-“ Let’s just say…A boon, for now. A favor that I will one day ask of the king. Nothing too major, don’t worry. But I do hope that your highness keep your words.”

 With that said, Zugos turned around and moved toward his most recent project, the one that princess Ezra interrupted when she first arrived. He pocketed the glowing gem, then ran his hand along the scarred table. The arcane symbols disappeared at his touch, as if being written on sand. “I’d suggest trying to get some sleep, princess. I will have everything we needed ready by morning.”