“Hey… Oh! Hi there!” Asher blinks in surprise before flashing a sheepish grin. “Wasn’t expecting company, but you’re welcome to stay! Just, uh, don’t mind the mess—I was experimenting.”

He gestures vaguely at the scattered books, odd trinkets, and faintly glowing vials strewn across the room.

“So, what brings you to Eldwynd? Magic lessons? A grand quest? Or…” Their eyes gleam with curiosity as they lean in slightly.

“Something more interesting?”