[In truth, few necromancer and cavalier bonds are like that of Palamedes Sextus and Camilla Hect, although that is another thing Ortus only knows by reputation. Prior to his death, Ortus would have said that Harrowhark's feelings towards him were purely those of contempt, and his for her were a cold admixture of disdain and pity.

But that would have always been a lie, and not one he would tell now.

He purses his lips at the mention of corruption in unwell minds, the meaning of what Viktor says coinciding with what Ortus assumes he means closely enough that it does not occur to him to question it.]

Is there not creativity in the work of the artificer? I have never understood how one may see an assortment of materials, and fashion things of use from them. [He rotates his glass on the bar top.] And but one conversation with a practitioner of magic inspired you to innovation.

[Self-deprecation in order to build up others is Ortus' job, and he is loathe to delegate it to Viktor, whose kind indulgence of his morose state in combination with his cleverness is earning him a place high in Ortus' esteem.]

Brilliance and arrogance are often hand in glove. It is a relief to know he is not so afflicted. [Unlike certain other necromancers he can think of.] He fares well, then? In your estimation.