Aberforth put the venom in the back room. When he came out, he saw Su Er still standing at ease by the counter, toying with the Galleons.
"Why haven't you left yet?"
Su Er swept the Galleons into the cloth bag and gave it a gentle shake, listening to the crisp clinking of the coins inside as he looked into Aberforth's bright blue eyes.
"Let's talk, sir."
"I don't think I have anything to talk about with a young wizard who's still in school."
Aberforth was in a fairly good mood after doing business with Su Er. It looked as though selling this half-pint bottle of fresh venom would earn him a few Galleons.
He went behind the bar, reached into the cabinet behind him, and took down a flat bottle that had already been opened. He unscrewed the cap and poured himself a drink.
"Unless you have more business for me? Hah..."
"Aren't you curious who suggested I come to you?" Su Er asked unhurriedly.
"Plenty of people know me, but this is the first time I've heard anyone call me a man who keeps his word." Aberforth leaned casually against the bar, took a sip of the tawny liquor, and gave a derisive chuckle.
"I am curious who gave me such high praise. I'm rather flattered."
"It was-" Su Er said softly, "Ariana."
Clink. The glass in Aberforth's hand fell, striking the bar. The remaining liquor dripped onto the wooden floor with a pattering sound.
That name was taboo for Aberforth-no, for Albus as well. Who knew how many years it had been? He had not heard that name from anyone else's lips in a very long time.
Aberforth's breathing gradually grew heavier. Just then, someone pulled the door of the Hog's Head open from outside with a