Summary: The one thing he regrets.
He pressed himself into the shadows, desperately waiting for a sound, fighting, screaming - anything resembling a diversion. The Automaton should have come to life 10 minutes ago, yet no guard had left their post. His gaze strayed to his small companion at his feet.
Varian gritted his teeth.
"Hey, bud." The boy crouched down, scratching slow circles behind his furry friend's ears.
"Remember last harvest festival with the big maze?" He asked.
Ruddiger tilted his head to grand him better access, which earned him a weak smile. He smelled conflicted.
"You, um, ate lots of popcorn."
The tiny raccoon chirped and scooched closer. It had been a fun day.
"I've… developed something similar to the fertilizer we used." His hand was slightly shaking. "Not for plants though."
Two charcoal eyes blinked up at him, coupled with a flick of his tail. That usually did the trick.
"Don't worry I worked out all the kinks." There was way too much certainty in his voice. "I… It's as safe as it gets, only lasts for a little while. Just long enough. That's all."
The boy bit his lips. A vial with liquid moonlight appeared between his fingers. He took a deep breath.
"I am sorry," the alchemist said before dripping it on the back of the raccoon's neck. The words rang empty as he retreated further into the dark.