"Three days," Ellis says, and, by way of explanation, "My armor should be repaired by then."

And it's enough time to see to any number of minor chores, make arrangements for his chickens, be sure the Hightown house is not in position to be consumed by an ambitious science experiment in his absence.

His hand smooths down Thot's arched spine, before he lifts her onto the table.

"I should go."

As he has run out of distractions for the day, and they shouldn't tempt fate.