The Bird and the Wyrm

I was pretty nervous to suddenly run into someone from the government, especially one involved with all things paranormal and magical, but Helen Zhu surprised me in being really approachable. Or maybe she was just too hungry?

Helen took a healthy gulp of her tea, swallowed, then set it down with an incredibly satisfied sigh. She turned to me. "You’re a really good cook. From now on, any time I need to come to this area, I’ll come find you, okay?"

It was a good thing you bought more groceries or else there would be nothing left in the fridge.

"I, uh," I glanced at you for direction, but you were busy eating yourself and staring off into space. "Uh, sure."

Helen beamed. "It’s a promise then!"

I felt like I’d signed some contract with some devil.

Amethyst dabbed at the corner of her mouth with a lace handkerchief, then raised her hand.

"Me too."

Definitely a devil.

You set down his chopsticks and the three guests - me, Amethyst and Helen - all turned to look at you, the host.

"The two of you are free to come as you like, and if Misha’s willing to cook for you, then I won’t stop it, but," you paused and looked at the two women very seriously, "you have to bring your own ingredients."