Technically, Richard hasn’t confessed to anything yet. It would cost him nothing to deny any capacity for help and excuse himself. But Isaac is handsome, and there’s nothing more pitiful than a caster without a focus.

“I was careless, in the jungle.”

He is decisive in saying so, no affection for being put in this position behind his eyes, which have gone a little tight at the corners.

“Your people subjugate magic users.”

How embarrassing. But doubtless, he’s preaching to the choir -- at current both of them look like they could use a nap.

“I can mend the shaft, but not the lyrium core. Direct contact is required.”