Angel's hand remained suspended in midair, and the corner of his mouth twitched.
All right, it seemed his earlier conclusion had been wrong.
Mysterious tangible objects held just as powerful an allure for extraordinary lifeforms outside the wizarding system.
After putting on Ouroboros, Balalaika looked at the crystal harp and the Stele of the Strange Ring with a trace of regret in her eyes. She had originally wanted to swindle those over as well, but that clearly would not be possible now.
"The deal is done. Tell me, what do you want from me?" Balalaika shifted her posture, propping an elbow against the bar. The slender fingers wearing Ouroboros lazily toyed with her long-stemmed pipe. Amid the drifting smoke, her charm could not be concealed.
Angel had originally thought Balalaika would ask about Ouroboros's origins, but she said nothing at all, seeming scarcely interested in where it had come from.
Balalaika truly had no intention of asking about the origins of such things. There were too many wondrous mysteries in the world. Wouldn't one be exhausted if one had to know everything? Besides, she would never leave the Resting Place. What would it change even if she knew?
"Any transaction will do." Balalaika slowly brushed the stem of her pipe over the back of Angel's hand, lightly drawing a circle as though tickling him.
The itch on the back of his hand, coupled with Balalaika's deliberately lowered, suggestive tone, made Angel's heart waver for an instant. Yet the moment he remembered Balalaika's identity, he calmed down again.
Expressionless, Angel withdrew his hand.
"I came to see Miss Balalaika this time because I hope you can help me solve a problem."
"Murder?" Balalaika spoke of something cruel in an unconcerned, flirtatious tone.
Angel shook his head, carefully took Toby from his