‘Are things truly as dire as I believe, Kruppe?’ Kruppe waggled his brows. ‘Such journeys leave self puckered with dryness, gasping with thirst.’ Sighing, the High Alchemist said, ‘Help yourself.’ Beaming a smile, Kruppe drew out from a sleeve a large dusty bottle, already uncorked. He examined the stamp on the dark green glass. ‘My, your cellar is indeed well equipped!’ A crystal goblet appeared from the other sleeve. He poured. Downed a mouthful then smacked his lips. ‘Exquisite!’
