Fate/Excision

"You...a dog of the Association...seeking my help?" Cevarc's gaze was directed at the bubble, brow furrowed and eyes slightly unfocused. He seemed to momentarily be at a loss for how to process this. "No...I don't believe he's lying..." he murmured, seemingly to himself.

Cevarc looked at Sigyn and Joseph, then back to Takeshi. "And I stand to gain from this. If you receive my assistance then I require assurance that mine and my family's work not be interfered with by the Association under any circumstances. It will pass on without them."

"Why do you assume we would interfere? Your work will [probably] be a great asset."

"Because that is what the Association does, young man. You had best figure that out before you and yours catch their interest."

"Well then that is more of a reason to be on the Association's good side. They have trust in you and will leave your work alone[probably]." Joseph shrugged

"Though it pains me to say this, given the circumstances, I can probably get that to happen." Takeshi says, almost physically pained.

There was a long moment of silence during which Cevarc alternated between staring at Takeshi, Joseph, and the bubble (which had retreated to a corner of the room). Finally, after just long enough to make it unclear whether he had forgotten the conversation entirely, he sighed. "I find myself in the unfamiliar position of believing you when you say that, Enforcer. Which means that for the moment, we have a deal."

the group could almost see the tension leaving Takeshi's body as he visibly relaxed. "Good to hear. Now, we don't have much time to lose, Sigyn, where's the clsoest location we need to go?"