Silas set Shu down gently, his mind already racing ahead to the challenges that awaited him. As much as he enjoyed the imp's company, he knew he couldn't afford to linger.
"I appreciate the offer, Shu, but I should press on," Silas said, his voice tinged with regret. "And if Wizz needs her rest, I'd hate to disturb her."
Shu's impish grin softened into a more genuine smile. "Ah, ever the considerate adventurer. Well, don't let me keep you from your grand quest." She gave a theatrical bow, nearly toppling over in the process. "May fortune favor the foolhardy and all that jazz."
Silas couldn't help but chuckle at her antics. "Thanks, Shu. I have a feeling I'll need all the luck I can get."
With a final nod to the imp, Silas turned his attention to the door at the far end of the room. It loomed before him, solid and imposing, a stark contrast to the constantly moving gears that surrounded it.
